Frequently Asked Questions

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and mechanical systems of the home.

Why do I need a home inspection?

Before buying a house or even selling a house, it’s helpful to have a home inspection to learn what issues may exist.

What is covered in a home inspection?

A thorough home inspector will look at several aspects of your home, including the exterior, roofing system, electrical system, plumbing and more.

When should I call a home inspector?

A home inspector should be contacted when buying a home, selling a home, when a preventative maintenance plan is desired, or if a major remodeling job or addition is planned.

How long do I have to wait for my report?

With Sound Home Inspection's state-of-the-art inspection report generator, your report can be emailed to you before the inspector even leaves the site.

Why should I have a home inspection before putting my house on the market?

To help speed the selling process, a home inspector will tell you of any issues that may jeopardize the sale, allowing you to proactively fix them.

Do I need to be at the inspection?

While not required, it's advisable to be at the inspection so the home inspector can alert you of any issues and answer any questions you may have.

What is a "Clerk of the Works"?

A home inspector can act as a Clerk of the Works, an impartial overseer of a construction job, to ensure the project is held to strict standards.

I'm buying a brand new house. Do I still need to have it inspected?

Since no newly-constructed house is built perfectly, a good home inspector can alert you of any flaws and save you potentially costly future damage or maintenance problems.

I'm buying an older home. How can I be assured it's in good condition?

A home inspector who is experienced with antique homes will be able to tell you exactly what condition the home's structure and systems are in.

Why do I need a radon inspection?

A home inspector can perform a radon inspection to alert you of large amounts of hazardous radon gas that may be present.

How do I know if the well on a property is sound?

A water inspection or well inspection by a qualified home inspector will be able to tell you if the well is in satisfactory condition.

Is a septic test required?

While not required, a home inspector can run a septic test to see how well the septic system has been maintained, potentially saving you from costly repairs.

What is ASHI?

ASHI, the American Society of Home Inspectors is the oldest and most respected home inspectors' organization. ASHI-certified inspectors are held to strict standards..

My neighbor is a building contractor. Can I just have him do the inspection?

A licensed, certified home inspector is trained to recognize and evaluate issues in a completed property. An ASHI-certified home inspector has studied a variety of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and structural systems used throughout the years, thus has knowledge and familiarity that most building contractors don't need or have.