Shield Home Inspection's COVID-19 Info

Inspection Overview

WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?

A general home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of the accessible areas of a residential property (as delineated below), performed for a fee, which is designed to identify defects within specific systems and components defined by these Standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. The scope of work may be modified by the Client and Inspector prior to the inspection process.

WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?

It is the goal of the inspection to put a home buyer/seller in a better position to make an informed decision. The general scope of our inspection is to identify existing problems that would affect a typical buying or selling decision. We strive to add significantly to your knowledge of the home, within the scope of the inspection.

WHAT WE INSPECT

When we provide an inspection, we are sure to pay attention to detail. Here is a list of some items we inspect for each system of a house during a general home inspection.

    ROOF

  • Flashing
  • Shingles (curling, degraded, missing, etc.)
  • Rubber flashings around vent pipes
  • Chimney & chimney cap
  • Crawlspace
  • Moss and lichen
  • Downspouts and gutters

    STRUCTURE

  • Settlement/heaving along foundation
  • Adequate joist, beam & pier construction
  • Structural movement along siding and above doors and windows

    EXTERIOR

  • Garages and/or carports
  • Exterior doors
  • Drainage, grading, plants and retaining walls
  • Wall coverings, flashing and trim
  • Driveways, patios and walkways
  • Balconies, decks, steps, porches and railings
  • Eaves, fascias and soffits (if visible)

    INTERIOR

  • Doors and windows
  • Garage doors and operators
  • Installed kitchen appliances
  • Walls, floors and ceilings
  • Cabinets and countertops
  • Fuel burning fireplace and stoves

    PLUMBING

  • Water heater
  • Water pressure
  • Fixtures and faucets
  • Sump pumps
  • Sewage ejectors
  • Drain, vent and waste systems

    ELECTRICAL

  • Service equipment, drops, grounding and main disconnects
  • Service cables, entrance conductors and raceways
  • Light fixtures, receptacles and power switches
  • Overcurrent protection devices
  • Circuit interrupters

    ATTIC

  • Evidence of pest intrustion
  • Insulation
  • Ventilation
  • Rafters
  • Trusses
  • Subroof
  • Moisture
  • Ceiling joists

    HVAC

  • Thermostat
  • Insulation
  • Heating and cooling
  • Vents
  • Air filters
  • Distribution systems
  • Access panels
  • Insulation
  • Vapor retarders

    CRAWLSPACE

  • Moisture buildup
  • Visible suspected mold & mildew growth
  • Insulation
  • Water supply pipes
  • Drains
  • Electric cables
  • HVAC ducts
  • Floor joists
  • Piers
  • Foundation wall
  • Vapor retarder