Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take?
A typical inspection of a property less than 2000 sq. ft. lasts about 2 hours. We do suggest that you reserve a minimum of 3 hours for larger homes or if questions or discussions arise. We do not ‘breeze through’ the house in an hour or less to check boxes and hand-write comments on a carbon paper form or a field worksheet – and call it a report as many of our competitors do. We do the most thorough and detailed inspection available.
How are you different from other inspection firms?
We are full-time professionals – this is not a sideline business. Many home inspectors inspect homes part-time and don’t commit to continuing education.
Our inspectors use high-end computers, the Internet, extensive software, and digital cameras to create a comprehensive narrative report just for you. Many other firms use carbon paper forms with check-off boxes and limited space for hand written comments. Our reports are designed to be used for reference after you’ve taken possession of the property – not just get filed away with all your closing documents!
We have extensive code, standards, and technical libraries available to our staff as well as an on-site laboratory. Our extensive databases include component re-call information, which can quickly determine any active re-calls. Many of our clients have received manufacturer paid repairs, or allowances for new components or equipment prior to closing.
Our on-site laboratory and extensive training allows us to perform analysis such as Radon testing and some water testing, without the delay of sending samples away for analysis.
When possible, we mount the roof, crawl the attic, and wiggle through a crawlspace – many others don’t…or won’t. And if we want to point something out to you we take digital photographs. Sometimes a picture’s worth a thousand words.
We have a full line of property and environmental inspection options making us a one-stop shop for your convenience. We do not perform repairs on homes we inspect. Rest assured that our report reflects our true opinion of the property and is not influenced by the desire to gain work in another trade.
What we DON’T do
We don’t see through walls, we don’t predict the future, we don’t worry about cosmetics, and we don’t promise to find every single defect in a home.. A home inspection is a generalist’s perspective, and therefore our fee is much less than bringing in a specialist from each field. If you require specialist evaluations (engineers, architects, Master plumbers, Master electricians, sewer camera inspections, infrared leak detections, etc.) we can arrange for such evaluations at an additional cost.
Is an inspection necessary for new construction?
Absolutely. While many new homes are well built and free of significant defects, we regularly find defects in new construction. Every contractor can’t account for every subcontractor. Chimneys have been rebuilt and roofs re-shingled as the result of an InspectionTechnologies Inspection.
Electrical concerns, unsafe furnace installations, incorrect framing, and improper siding installations have all been found during our new construction inspections. Even without serious concerns, an InspectionTechnologies inspection can help identify important items for a pre-closing punch list. It is very common for problems to be identified that might not be noticeable to a homeowner until after the builder’s warranty has expired, or if you sell the home in the future.
The State processes hundred of complaints against builders each year.
May I be present during the inspection?
YES! In fact, we insist on your presence at the inspection. Contrary to popular opinion, our job is not just to inspect the property but to educate as well. This can only be achieved if you are present at the time of the inspection.
How will I know the condition of the house?
During the course of the inspection, your inspector will point out findings and answer any questions that you have. You will want to be available to the inspector, but not interfere with the inspection process. Let the inspector know your concerns as the inspection starts and feel free to ask questions about findings. Point out anything that you discover during the inspection and provide an extra pair of eyes. Throughout the inspection, your inspector will be taking notes and composing a report that will give their findings and opinions.
Do I get a written report?
The written report is composed with a powerful computer that contains a proprietary knowledge base available to your inspector as he creates the inspection report. It will be delivered to you through our pass code-protected website that only you can view (and whoever you decide to give the passcode to). The Property Inspection Report contains the letters of introduction reiterating the scope of the inspection and defining terms, our inspection report, photo addendums, a Current and Seasonal Maintenance Information, and Component Life Expectancies.
What are your qualifications?
All of our inspectors are Nationally certified and licensed, and required to receive ongoing training locally, regionally, and nationally.
We are also members of F.R.E.A. (The Foundation of Real Estate Appraisers), with designation of RREI (Residential Real Estate Inspectors) and CREI (Commercial Real Estate Inspectors). Our Membership number is 0019118.
Our Vermont License number is: 143.0112840
Our New York License number is: 16000013385.
And, we are also one of the founding members of the Vermont Association of Professional Home Inspectors. For information on V.A.P.H.I, visit their website at www.vaphi.org
Do you have Errors & Omissions insurance?
Yes, we do. We have coverage for Errors and Omissions (Professional Liability), Business Liability, and we are Bonded.
How do I book an Inspection?
Simply call us at 518-565-0379 to book an inspection time that’s convenient for you.