Ask the Inspector
Thanks to more than three decades of experience, AmeriSpec inspectors have heard (and seen) it all. Find expert answers to the most common questions from home buyers and home sellers.
Purchasing a property is a huge decision, but you don’t need to do it alone. AmeriSpec inspectors are certified and trained to evaluate a home and offer insights on maintenance, too.
What to Expect During a Home Inspection
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Yes, AmeriSpec inspectors are licensed according to state requirements and trained through our national program. Our inspectors also carry extensive errors and omissions insurance and general liability insurance.
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Yes, in addition to a general home inspection, we may offer specialty inspections in your area. Often, these specialty inspections include mold, radon, sewer scope, termite and wood-destroying organisms and more. It’s best to check with your local AmeriSpec inspector to confirm the availability of specialty inspections.
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Once a home inspection is complete, you will receive your AmeriSpec Report often within 24 hours.
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Common signs of wear and tear on a home include peeling paint on the exterior and interior, caulk and weather-stripping damage, torn window screens and minor wood discoloration.
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Common bigger-ticket items that may arise during a home inspection include structural movement, HVAC equipment non-functional, roof damage and leakage, electrical fixtures non-functional or damage (including damaged or exposed wiring) and non-functional, leaking or damaged water supply lines and drain pipes.
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When you see the phrase “recommend review by a qualified or licensed professional,” the system or component needs evaluation for repair or replacement.
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Homes don’t pass or fail an inspection, but we’ll be sure to point out anything specific that may cause major concern.
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Depending on your state and local inspector, they may have recommendations on experts. It never hurts to ask.
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Radon, an odorless, tasteless radioactive gas, can be found in homes throughout the United States. It is released into the air as a result of the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and often enters a home through small cracks and holes in the foundation, where it becomes trapped. According to estimates, nearly one out of every 15 homes in the United States has elevated radon levels. All types of homes can have a radon problem — new homes, old homes and homes with basements, crawl spaces and even slab constructions.
Any exposure to radon has some risk of causing lung cancer. And the Surgeon General and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend testing for radon in order to know whether there are dangerous levels present in the home. From there, you’ll be able to determine what radon reduction method or mitigation will be best for your home.
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During a comprehensive home inspection, the inspector conducts a thorough evaluation of the main electrical panel box and any subpanels that are present. They will also remove the cover from the panel box and determine whether or not the sizes of the wires are compatible with the size of the fuses or circuit breakers that have been installed. The inspector will also determine if the electrical system is properly grounded and look at wires at branch circuits. The main service line and the mast are examined for safety.
On the interior of the home, all of the accessible receptacles will be tested, too. The inspector will also look for exposed wires and improper splices as well as Romex™ wiring and stranded wiring that have been incorrectly used throughout the home. While inspecting the exterior of the home, the inspector will note whether or not ground fault circuit interrupters have been installed at the exterior receptacles.
Note: Any electrical items that are considered to be a safety concern will be noted in the AmeriSpec report. AmeriSpec always recommends that the repairs be done by a licensed electrician for everyone’s protection.
Find even more answers to common questions from home buyers, home sellers and home renovators.
When it comes time to assess winter impacts on your home and get ready for spring, a visual evaluation helps identify potential issues and helps to create your home maintenance to-do list. Start by checking: Tackling exterior and interior upkeep and maintenance before the weather turns cold can help you stay cozy inside and give you peace of mind. First, let’s start outside. Then, we head inside. With proper care and regular maintenance, you can help avoid septic system issues. Noises, like squeaky hinges, creaky floors or a banging radiator, are quite common. Here are some tips to address them: A running toilet can be caused by a number of issues, so identify the cause first. Besides regular inspections, you can help prolong the life of your roof by doing the following: Even little roof leaks can lead to big repair bills. Preventive measures and early maintenance can save you a lot of headaches down the road.Expert Home Maintenance Insights
How to Partner with AmeriSpec
I have more questions. How can I connect with a home inspection expert near me?
Find a certified AmeriSpec inspector near you to get answers to your home inspection questions.
The AmeriSpec real estate inspection services may not be available everywhere. Please contact your local AmeriSpec office for more details. AmeriSpec services are provided by independently owned and operated franchises. Availability of services may vary depending on location.