Q: How do I choose a Home Inspector?

A: Call up and ask about their credentials and experience. If for some reason you don’t feel comfortable asking this of the inspector when speaking with them on the phone then how will you feel asking questions at the inspection. You must feel that the inspector is qualified, experienced and attentive of your needs.

Q: What will the inspection cover?

A: A thorough Inspection covers everything from roof to the foundation.
Items that are included in the Inspection are as follows:

Attic
Insulation
Ventilation
Roof & Flashings
Gutters
Basement
Crawlspace
Foundation
Grading
Retaining Walls
Siding & Trim
Driveways & Walks
Ceilings
Floors
Walls
Doors & Windows
Chimney
Fireplace
Major Appliances
Electrical System
Water Heater
Plumbing System
Air Conditioning
Heating

Q: How long will the Inspection take?

A: Most Home Inspections take about three to four hours. These times may vary depending on the size, age & condition of the home.

Q: Should I be present during the Home Inspection?

A: We recommend that you be present at the site of the Home Inspection, from start to finish.

Q: Why use West Coast Home Inspection Services?

A: The purchase of a new home is one of the single most costly investments that a family will make. Along with the extra stresses this will add, there is also the fear factor of, “Will this home stand the test of time?” It is also important to know what YOU, as the primary investor, are getting for your money. A home inspection is an excellent tool for you, the home buyer, to help determine not only the condition of the home, but to also help foresee any immediate additional cost that may go unnoticed without the help of a home inspection. Home inspections are not a prediction of future performance, but can pinpoint existing problem areas.

Q: Why can’t I have someone in my family who is very handy or a contractor, inspect my new home?

A: This is the biggest mistake many potential new homeowners make when purchasing a home. Although the person you are considering may be very skilled, they are not trained or experienced at professional home inspections. Professional home inspection is a unique skill like no other. Professional inspectors get what we call an inspector’s instinct for problems. That instinct takes extensive training and lots of experience doing inspections to develop. Many contractors, and other trades professionals hire a professional home inspector to inspect their homes when they make a purchase.

Q: What if I have questions after the inspection?

A: You can call us and discuss all the aspects of your new home whenever you like. Our service is a long-term investment.

Q: Where is asbestos commonly found?

A: One of the more common places people are exposed to asbestos is in older homes. Few are aware of this hazard, and as a result, unnecessary exposure to asbestos occurs throughout the country. Asbestos exposure is known to cause a variety of illnesses, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma cancer. Every year, approximately 10,000 Americans die from asbestos-related diseases. Knowing what products to look for, how to avoid exposure to microscopic asbestos fibers, and knowing where to find local abatement companies is essential in protecting yourself and your family from asbestos exposure. Resources such as these can be found at The Asbestos and Mesothelioma Center, the web’s leading source of information about asbestos and the diseases associated with this hazardous material.