I perform home inspections that exceed the requirements of the rules of  the Texas Real Estate Commission. 

http://www.trec.state.tx.us/inspector/rules_governing_inspectors.asp

 

KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY

 

 

 

 

Service available

         A Typical home inspection covers foundation, roof, structure, electrical, plumbing, hvac, built in appliances. 

         Some extras may include garage apartments, extra buildings, yard sprinklers, pools, spas.

 

         These extras  may or may not be included when you are quoted a price unless you mention them.

 

 

*Reports are available same day as inspection. (When payment received).

 

*Reports are delivered via electronic media to you.

 

*Reports may include photographic defect documentation.

 

Existing, previously owned homes (and some new ones) do not meet current building codes, although they may have at the time of original construction. The building codes of a locality are the minimum standards by which a building/home must be constructed. In some cases, local authorities do not enforce the most recent building codes.  Most of the building codes change at least every 3 years. 

 

       You have a right to be aware of deficiencies that do not meet current standards, especially when related to your personal safety. For example, an electrical system that may function with no defects, but, would not be allowed to be installed today.  If you are aware of it, you may want to consider updating the system even though it may not be required.

 

Building codes are based on the principles of providing protection regarding the public health, safety  and welfare and are updated periodically to allow the use of new products, methods, and systems that meet those principles.

 

 

EIFS - Exterior Insulated Finishing System Inspections.

         This system has other popular names including ‘fake stucco” and has acquired a bad reputation because of inferior design and/or application that allows water to penetrate the surface and joints.  It is good when applied correctly with the appropriate moisture  protection and very expensive to remedy when it is not installed properly.  It can require complete removal of the cladding.  This system has been banned in some states and has been the subject of several civil litigations. 

         The inspection includes documenting the installation and scanning the surface with specially designed interior moisture recognition and thermal imaging equipment.

Infrared thermal imaging scans are used to find otherwise hidden defects such as water leaks in walls, missing insulation, air leaks in walls, ceilings & air ducts, and many other items.  This gives you a more thorough inspection.   See thermal imaging for more info.