The Inspection Process

1. Inspections are performed to the ASHI Standards and Practices as it applies to Maryland including any specific state or local amendments to the standards.

2. All inspections are tablet based and emailed to the client as a PDF within 24 hours of the completion of the inspection.

3. The  inspection template is divided into sections for various rooms and areas of the home, such as kitchen, bath, bedroom, Interior, basement, etc.

4. Each section is further sub-divided into  categories such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, appliances, smoke detectors, windows and doors, etc.

5. Photos are included in the report.

6. All items noted on the various sections and categories will be moved to the summary page under various headings in order of severity of the issues.

7. Upon your arrival onsite, the inspector will ask you to sign the pre-inspection agreement.

1. You are welcome to accompany the inspector on all areas of the inspection except the roof. Our business insurance does not cover the client in the event of a fall.

2. You are encouraged to ask questions about anything that you don't understand or have any concerns about.

3. The inspector will point out various items such as water shut-off locations, gas shut-offs, GFCI outlets and their operation, the location of electrical panels, water heaters, furnace and air conditioners etc. 

4. The inspector should demonstrate how the various HVAC controls work, the location of water pumps, water treatment systems, etc.

5. The inspector will demonstrate the operation of double and single hung windows.

6. The inspector will demonstrate how to change the HVAC filters.

7. The location of various light switches and the lights/devices they operate.

8. Point out any sump or Grinder pumps and explain their operation.

9. Point out any areas of concern noted during the inspection with appropriate explanation of the severity of the issue, possible remedies and the issues associated with not repairing/correcting them.

1. Any areas hidden behind permanent walls, obstructed by furniture, storage or other items, and otherwise obstructed by owners personal belongings.

2. Any devices turned off, such as gas fireplaces, furnaces without a working pilot light, devices that may be under repair or service.

3. If the water is turned off to any plumbing fixture, that fixture will not be inspected.

4. If hidden damage is suspected, the inspector will note it on the inspection form with a recommendation that it be further explored by the appropriate trades specialist. 

1. They cannot tell you how long the Roof, the Air Conditioner, Furnace, Water Heater and other Appliances will last. All they can tell you is the current condition and what the usual useful life of each appliance is. They may also suggest further inspection or repair by qualified trades specialist.

2. They cannot advise you on whether to buy the house or not.

3. They cannot tell you how much it will cost to fix something noted on the report.

4. They cannot negotiate repairs with the seller for you.

5. They cannot make repairs on any house they have inspected.

1. The inspector will go over his findings with you. Explaining what, why and the severity or importance of each item.

2. The inspector will ask if you have any specific questions.

3. Pay for inspection and any other services, such as radon, lead paint or water testing.

4. Inspector will clean up report, clearly explain findings in writing and email to the client within 24 hours. 

1. Contact inspector with any questions at 240-876-5125 or fauxpa@comcast.net