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Inspection FAQs
At THORBURN HOME INSPECTIONS we do our best to answer all of your questions. Below you will find a list of what we believe are the most frequently asked questions. If you have any questions that have not been answered below, do not hesistate to contact us.
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A typical inspection should take approximately 3 hours to complete. This can vary, given the current condition and size of the home, the accessibility of mechanical systems, and so on. As a courtesy to sellers, we recommend that they be informed of the time frame in a pre-purchase home inspection situation.
I inspect the major systems of the house. These include the Roof, Exterior, Structure, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Insulation, Interior and Air Quality. Our goal is to identify any existing major problems that would affect a typical buyer's decision to purchase.
My typical fee for an inspection is $450. However, some factors will affect the fee. See the Pricing sheet. When comparing different home inspector rates keep this in mind, the most expensive is not necessarily the most experienced or background.(MARKETING PLOY) Remember, you are considering a major purchase and your choice of home inspector should be based on getting the best value, not just the best price. I also extremely recommend a home inspector have a construction background. A very high number do not!
- Complete home inspection conducted by a Certified Professional Inspector.
- Comprehensive written home inspection report. Email - environmental to save on paper.
- Technical support for as long as you own your home.
- Thermal Imaging in every inspection.
- Cost Saving tips after you buy that home.
We encourage you to attend. The inspection is a valuable learning experience for most home buyers'. At the end of the inspection, I will sit down and discuss the major issues right there and then from the report summary. It is encouraged; however, to take extra notes on size of windows to get a head start on coverings or take measurements of things you want to change when you move in so you can order materials or products.
CURRENTLY WITH COVID 19 - I ask my clients to kindly keep a distance between us, let me go about my routine and then let me sit down and explain my findings at the end and then answer questions. I will ask what your concerns are before I get into my inspection.
For 1st TIME BUYERS I STRONGLY ENCOURAGE they follow me around the house after so I can show them 1st hand the inner workings and where they can save money!
You don't have to take notes during the inspection. I document everything in a written report. It's also a great opportunity to ask questions and to clarify anything that confuses you.
Absolutely! You may want to bring some questions that you have regarding the home. You should also feel free to stop the inspector and ask questions as you go. If the inspector's comments or explanations are not clear, please ask for further explanation. Sometimes there maybe a question that may stump any inspector, if this happens on our inspection, I will either research the question or find the answer required by a professional in that particular field if needed.
You should dress comfortably and be prepared to spend roughly 2 1/2 hours. This your chance to explore the house one last time before buying. You won't have to climb on the roof or go into the attic, so your clothes won't get dirty. Remember, this is not your home yet; therefore, we at Thorburn Home Inspections would ask you show respect for the current home owners by not wearing shoes in the house or using their washrooms! I do suggest to bring a pair of indoor shoes you normally would wear in your home. Some homes have the heat turned way down especially when empty.
I recommend that you not bring your family especially with the COVID 19 rules; this is a technical evaluation, and you should focus on the inspector's comments - the fewer distractions, the better. For 1st TIME BUYERS, foresure bring a parent(s).
You do receive an email report. It would be unfair to ask you to remember all of the things we cover during a home inspection. The report includes a summary of the condition of the home and details on all the major systems of the home. It is delivered within 24 hours after the inspection. It will have several digital images and explanations. Tips on cost saving.
No. We are not allowed to! It is however my job to give you all the information to the best of my abilities so you can make an informed decision. My goal is to report on the condition of the house, indicating potential repairs and expenses. Ultimately, it is your decision as to whether or not you buy the house. The home inspection is very important but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Only you know all of the factors at play. There will be tell tale signs in my report that will give you my answer.
A home inspection is a professional opinion based on less-than-complete information. It's a little like getting a check-up from your doctor: It improves your odds of good health but there is no guarantee or warranty.
Some problems can only be discovered by living in a house - they cannot be discovered during a home inspection. For example, some shower stalls leak when people use the shower but don't leak when you simply turn on the shower. Some roofs and basements only leak when specific weather conditions exist. Some problems will only be discovered when carpets are lifted, furniture is moved or finishes are removed. As such, we cannot and do not offer a warranty on the house.
Home warranty programs are available from others. Be careful though, do your homework on which components their warranties truly cover.
I started my own business in 2012 when I left the lumber industry. I was recruited 7 years ago in 2015 by a Master Certified Inspector who did all of my House Flipping Projects. He steered me in this direction because he wanted someone who he could trust to give referrals to and he liked my quality of work! I did House Flipping for 5 years and was a Production Manager in a Lumber Mill for 28 years. Obviously my specialty will be in the wood structure of the home but I understand all the other components very well from all the renovation work. I took my education from a highly reputable training center. Carson and Dunlop. I did my practical training under a Master Inspector in several homes.
We currently have 1 full-time professional available to perform inspections. Myself. I beleive I can give better personal service than a group of guys.
Graduate of the Carson and Dunlop Training Center. CERTIFIED HOME INSPECTOR.
Inspectors also keep their skills current with continuing education programs both through the company and through the Inspection Association they belong to. I currently have about 26 Certificates. Most asked one is Thermal Imaging.
YES! Certified Member of INTERNACHI.
I am ready to serve you quickly. However, when the sale of a home is conditional on the results of a home inspection, it is recommend that you allow at least three days to arrange for a home inspection. Remember, this will likely be your single biggest investment ever! Don't RUSH and make a Haste Decision.
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Got more questions?
Send a question.Call us today at 780-233-6917 or email at inspectorstacey@gmail.com.
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