Inspections start at $300 | Call James for a free quote!
Standard Services
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an inexpensive way to discover the universal condition of a house. It’s a non-invasive, visual observation of the accessible systems and components of the property, conducted by a certified professional. The home inspection process is often, but not always, performed at the time of sale.
Why is a home inspection important?
A professional home inspector is an “Expert Generalist” who will conduct an inspection of the general condition of the home. A good home inspection will assist a buyer in understanding exactly what they are about to acquire. A home may look move in ready, but an inspector will cover features of the house such as electrical wiring, plumbing, roofing, insulation, as well as structural features of the home and may unveil issues that are not noticeable to the buyer’s eye. As a buyer, you are making an important investment, and it is critical to understand exactly what you are purchasing. The professional home inspector would inspect the structure, exterior, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, interior, insulation, and ventilation. Once the inspection is completed, the home inspector will generally provide the buyer with a report suggesting any improvements or repairs deemed necessary to bring the home up to current standards. Home inspections may often reveal problems with a home that could be pricey to fix. This could be used as a great tool in purchasing negotiations with the seller. Attending the home inspection is highly recommended! This is a valuable educational opportunity!
Note: A seller of a home may also request a home inspection before the home is put on the market. This may assist the seller in setting a price, correct any issues with the home before it is put on the market, or merely having a pre-inspection report available for buyers informing them that the seller has nothing to hide.
Pricing
General Home Inspections starting at $300.
Radon Testing starting at $125.
Termite Inspections starting at $50.
Sewer Inspections starting at $175.
Mold Inspections and Sampling - Call for a quote.
Ancillary Services
Termite Inspections
Another service a buyer may want to have before the purchase of a home would be a termite/wood destroying organism inspection. The inspector would check for signs of structural damage caused by wood boring insects. These insects may cause problems down the road. After the inspection, clients will receive a report along with any with any recommendations (if necessary).
Radon Testing
A radon test is also important when purchasing a home. Radon is a radioactive gaseous element formed by breakdown of radium, that occurs naturally especially in areas over granite, and is considered hazardous to health. Radon gas from natural sources can accumulate in homes, especially in confined areas such as attics and basements. Radon levels fluctuate naturally, therefore testing for high levels is important. A radon test consists of using a continuous radon monitor (CRM) placed in the lowest habitable floor of the house for 48 hours. If a radon test comes back high, some ways to alleviate the radon could be: sealing concrete slab floors, basement foundations, and water drainage systems or installing a radon mitigation system. This could be a costly fix, suggesting the importance of radon inspections. After the test, clients will receive a detailed report along with any recommendations (if necessary). Serenity Home Inspections offers radon testing at a discounted rate when purchased with a General Home Inspection!
Sewer Inspections
A main sewer inspection is another important service to consider when purchasing a home, especially if the home is over 25 years old. Sewer scope inspections can reveal damage to the pipes, blockages, and other problems. It also can spot potential problem areas before they develop into serious issues or hazards. After the inspection, clients will receive a detailed report with findings and recommendations (if necessary).
Mold Inspections and Testing
Mold spores are invisible to the eye, and travel through the air. Outdoors, mold is helpful. It travels and naturally degrades plant material. However, indoor mold can be dangerous to one’s health and can lead to respiratory problems, allergic reactions, nausea, and headaches. Every home has the potential for mold when spores are introduced to the correct conditions. Spores tend to flourish in warm and damp areas —kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms are particularly prone to growth. Mold often grows in places that are not visible, such as inside walls. If a pipe has a small leak inside your wall, you might not even be aware of it for some time. Water can lead to significant damage. So, how do you know that you have mold in your home? The best way to determine if you have mold is with a professional mold inspection.
Here are three benefits of mold inspections:
Help You Find Moisture in Your Home
Even if you do not currently have mold growing in your home, you might have areas that are at risk for mold. A mold inspection can help reveal leaks and other areas of moisture in your home. Remediating these issues can help you avoid not only mold but also prevent other costly damage.
Keep the Mold from Spreading
Mold spreads incredibly quick. It takes just 48 hours or less for it to grow and it can colonize in as little as a day. Locating and permanently remediating mold can keep it from spreading throughout your home.
Prevent Health Problems
Mold is dangerous to almost everyone, and most people are not aware when they have been exposed to mold. Mold exposure initially causes minor symptoms—such as a cough, headache runny nose or congestion. These are often initially confused for something else. However, the symptoms from mold exposure don’t get any better. Mold exposure has been linked to asthma and other chronic issues. Therefore, it is best to prevent health problems by having a mold inspection. After the inspection, clients will receive a detailed report along with any recommendations (if necessary).