HOW YOUR INSPECTION IS PERFORMED

Pressman Home Inspections performs one of the most thorough home inspections. The inspection identifies defective conditions, special maintenance requirements, and equipment or components which are likely to require replacement within the first few years of ownership. 

With each client, we will take all the time needed to address any questions or concerns. We give maintenance and repair suggestions as we walk you through your home, which will give you an idea of what it really takes to own and maintain a home. The information you will receive, will give you the ability to make an educated decision about your largest investment. The following is a general scope of the inspection process. For more details e-mail your inspector and we will be happy to answer any questions about your inspection.

AT THE EXTERIOR OF THE HOME:

We inspect for issues conducive to water penetration of the basement, i.e. gutters, downspout discharge points, soil slopes, trees and vegetation that may have any adverse impact on the building. In addition, we look for exterior wall cracks and determine what is the cause and if they have any structural significance.

Inspect all visible wall surfaces, exterior window, door and roof trim for any minor or major repairs.

We will climb any roof that is safe for the inspector and will not cause damage to the roof shingles or roofing membrane. We will comment on the general condition of the roof, type of roofing material, age, expected lifespan and any maintenance suggestions the membrane may require.

While on the roof, we will look at the chimneys and liners (where accessible) and determine the overall condition.

We inspect the main electric service cable for wear and deterioration.

IN THE BASEMENT:

We will inspect all exposed floor framing members and systems for rot or structural issues.

Examine the foundation walls for cracks or structural issues and water penetration.

Inspect the heating system and air conditioning system (when temperatures allow) to determine if the systems are functioning properly and within normal parameters. Note the age and average lifespan of all the major systems and comment on what is needed to maintain each system. We also inspect the air ducts or radiator supply pipes for any adverse conditions.

We inspect all visible plumbing supply and drain lines for any deterioration, leaks or cracks.

We remove the main circuit breaker panel cover and any sub-panel cover to inspect the interior condition of the breaker box for any corrosion, circuit breakers and correct wiring within the panel. We also inspect any exposed wiring within the basement.

THROUGH THE HOUSE;

We will walk through each room in the house and perform a representative sampling of accessible windows, wall switches and outlets for correct wiring or any minor or major repairs that may be needed. Look for water stains and test if possible, and observe ceiling, wall and exposed floor surfaces.

If accessible, we will enter the attic and inspect the roof framing members for any structural concerns, the roof decking for any signs of damage due to condensation and determine if the insulation and ventilation is adequate or in need of improvement.

We will test all plumbing fixtures in each bathroom at the same time to determine water pressure issues and inspect for any leaks.

We finish our inspection in the kitchen, testing all fixed built-in appliances, which includes the dishwasher, sink and garbage disposal, range and range hood, oven and trash compactor. Portable dishwashers, washers, dryers and refrigerators are excluded from a typical home inspection.

Upon completion of the inspection, we will sit down and discuss our findings. We will briefly explain the overall condition of the home, explain issues that are considered "Material Defects" (requires immediate repairs or replacement) and typical maintenance issues considered normal upkeep for your home.

If you cannot attend the inspection, we will contact you by phone as soon as possible to discuss our inspection findings and answer any questions you may have.

REPORT DISTRIBUTION:

Within 24 hours we will issue a comprehensive written report, which prioritizes all comments in groups and provides explanations of causes, solutions, and estimated repair costs for “Material Defect” issues - a depth of reporting simply not provided by most other inspectors. Call our office for a free sample copy and compare for yourself.


215-269-4900 (ask for Ellece)

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