Wood-Stone Home Inspections -- Lake Ariel, PA 18436 US
Home Inspections Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Additional Information About Home Inspections
What is a general home inspection?
The general home inspection is a comprehensive review of the structure and components of the house for safety and functionality.
Roofing
Visible roof covering materials, (shingles), flashings at roof penetrations and valleys, skylights, chimneys, gutters, and downspouts; We assess the condition of these elements for proper function; looking for evidence of leakage or worn, damaged, or missing components.
Exterior
Visible siding and trim, windows, doors, garages, porches, decks, stairs, and railings. We assess the elements for proper construction and function; looking for damage, missing components, or other conditions that might lead to safety or functional concerns.
Interior
Visible areas of all walls, ceilings, stairways, representative windows and doors, and attic areas for signs of leakage and damage, sagging, or other structural concerns. Windows operated to determine function. For accessible attics, besides assessing structural components, we will note insulation and ventilation conditions.
Foundation and Sub-structure
Visible load-bearing framing components, foundation walls, slabs, columns, and major structural components. Visible, accessible structural components assessed for function and presence of damage, decay, or defects. We look for water penetration at below grade areas.
Kitchen
Plumbing fixtures and built-in appliances. We check plumbing fixtures looking for w drainage issues and visible signs of leaks. We check basic operational modes of the appliances and ventilators and look at cabinets and countertops for significant deficiencies. If an appliance is beyond its expected lifespan, we will include this in our report.
HVAC
Visible components of the central AC or heat pump system condensers and air handlers. We operate the system to assess the function and condition of accessible indoor/outdoor components. The distribution system will also be assessed.
Electrical Systems
Visible service panels components and visible household wiring and devices. We assess the condition of readily accessible panel components, note the presence of GFCIs, AFCIs, smoke alarms, and check the operation of representative outlets, switches, fixtures, and other devices.
Plumbing
Visible water supply piping, distribution piping, waste system piping, water heaters, and plumbing fixtures. Includes inspection of the physical condition of piping, kitchen and bathroom fixtures; tubs, showers, toilets, and operation to assess flow, drainage, and leakage. Water heating components will also be examined.
How long does the inspection take?
The duration of appointments can vary depending on the type of inspection(s) and the size of the property. The average home (800 to 1500 sq ft) usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Larger homes, as well as homes where areas are hard to access (blocked by furniture, can't be located, etc.), can take up to 2 1/2 hours to complete. Radon testing can take a minimum of 48 hours in a closed house to complete and may take up to a week with more accurate results depending on the duration.
Do I need to be present during the inspection?
Although we recommend that you attend the appointment so we can point out any issues we find at the time, you do not have to be present for the inspection. We understand that you are busy and may not be able to find the time for the appointment. Your realtor can let us into the property if it is vacant, or the current owner can let us in. We can lock up the premises when done, or they can return at the end of the inspection appointment to lock the property back up. Our inspector will be completing a written report and will submit it to you within 24 - 48 hours, which you can schedule a time to review with them virtually over the phone, or in person. Should you choose to schedule a consultation appointment to review the report with the inspector, an additional charge of $50 will apply.
When is payment due?
Payment for services is due the day of but before the inspection. Our inspectors will not begin until we receive payment. However, a deposit of $75 is due when you schedule the appointment.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept Cash, Check, Money Order, or Credit/Debit Card, Paypal and Zelle as payment. You can process the card payment through our website in advance, our inspector can call it into our office, or they can run the card through their company phone app. Our inspectors will provide a receipt for cash, check, or money orders rendered as payment with your signed agreement.
Will I receive the report immediately after the inspection?
If you are present during the appointment, the house inspector will go over the areas with you and point out elements that may need attention during the inspection or immediately after. However, a written, detailed report that includes photographs will be submitted to you usually within 24 - 72 hours from the visit.
What if I need to re-schedule the home inspection?
You may call our office to request a re-schedule of the appointment. Appointments can be re-scheduled up to 2 hours before the session at no penalty. If you fail to call before 2 hours from the visit or our inspector is on-site, and you are a no show after 1 hour, you will be charged $75 for a cancellation fee.
What if I am running late to the scheduled home inspection appointment?
If you are running late to the visit, please call our office so we can notify our inspector to remain on site. You will not incur a penalty fee if you contact our office and meet with our inspector during the appointment time allotted.