Our inspections
The purpose of a home inspection is to assess the condition of the residence at the time of the inspection using visual observations, simple tools and normal homeowner operational controls; and to report deficiencies of specific systems and components. A home inspection is not technically exhaustive and does not identify concealed conditions or latent defects.
What does this mean? “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one.” Home inspectors are versatile and adept at many things, but we are generalists, not specialists. For example: we can identify and explain an electrical wiring defect in a home. But further evaluations and repairs should be performed by a licensed electrician who has specialized tools and expertise. You wouldn’t hire an electrician, a plumber, a roofing company, an HVAC technician, a framing contractor, a painter, a drywaller, a finish carpenter, a foundation contractor, a mason, and a landscaper to all show up the same day to evaluate, take photos and provide a written report on each system. I mean, you could try, but for the price of one of these specialists, you could hire one home inspector to evaluate all these systems.
Kulshan Home Inspections provides detailed reports with photos and video. We use HomeGauge software to deliver your report electronically. Our reports are often same-day, and we guarantee a 36-hour delivery time. Reports contain all of the following:
The Site
The building perimeter, land grade, water drainage directly adjacent to the foundation, trees and vegetation that adversely affect the structure, walks, grade steps, driveways, patios, and retaining walls contiguous with the structure.
Structure
Foundation and crawlspace, floor and roof framing, decking, other support and substructure/superstructure components, stairs, ventilation (when applicable), and exposed concrete slabs in garages and habitable areas.
Exterior
Siding, trim, paint and stain, caulking, windows and doors, porches, decks, steps, balconies, handrails, guardrails, carports, eaves, soffits, fascias and exterior portions of chimneys.
The Roof
Materials, gutters and downspouts, flashings, vents, skylights, other penetrations, and visible chimneys and flues.
The Plumbing
Water supply lines, waste and vent lines, fixtures and faucets, domestic hot water systems and fuel source.
The wiring
Service drop, main panel, subpanels, branch circuits, connected devices and lighting fixtures.
The HEating
Equipment, fuel source, distribution operating controls, flue pipes, chimneys and venting.
Air Conditioning
Equipment, distribution, and operating controls.
The Interior
Walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, steps, stairways, balconies and railings
Insulation and Ventilation
Type and condition of insulation and ventilation in unfinished attics and subgrade areas and installed mechanical ventilation systems.
Fireplaces and Stoves
Solid fuel and gas fireplaces, stoves, dampers, fireboxes and hearths.
Attached Garages and Carports
Framing, siding, roof, doors, windows, installed electrical/mechanical systems pertaining to the operation of the home.
WhY should you have an inspection?
Safety: Whether it is a deck about to collapse, or a pet door cut into the garage, some defects can put your family and your guests at risk.
Save money: Avoid unexpected expenses by knowing exactly what you are getting.
Education: Learn about the home, its systems and defects. Why are gutters important to protect the foundation? Should I be concerned about a buried oil tank on the property? What’s that smell?
Win Negotiation power: Brag to your friends about how you got a great deal!
Selling? Don’t let an offer fall through because unexpected defects were found! Get a sellers-inspection to know the condition of your home and fix things preemptively.
Maintenance: Have you lived in your home for 5+ years? Don’t let a small maintenance issue turn into a big expensive repair - get it inspected!
Waived the inspection: Did you have to waive the inspection contingency on your offer because your realtor told you that made it more likely to be accepted? That’s okay, we know the market is crazy right now…but now that your offer was accepted, you should have it inspected for the same reasons above.
