Frequently Asked Questions
What type of properties do you inspected?
What needs to be done prior to the inspection?
Why have an inspection agreement?
How long does it take for an inspection to be completed?
What is included in the inspection?
Should I accompany the inspector?
Will you be able to tell me if I should buy the property?
What are the rules for home inspectors in New York State?
Are there limits to the home inspection?
Will the inspection find everything that’s wrong with the home?
When will my home inspection report be ready?
Can I contact you with questions after I receive the report?
There is a pet at the inspection site - is this a problem?
How is a Repair List inspection different from a buyers inspection?
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What type of properties do you inspected?
Brownstones, Co-Ops, Condos, Single and multifamily houses, townhouses, small Apartment buildings and light commercial properties.
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What needs to be done prior to the inspection?
The Inspection agreement must be sign as soon as possible prior to the inspection date to schedule the inspection. All utility services, i.e. electric, gas and water should be turned on at the time of the inspection.
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Why have an inspection agreement?
As per NYS Home Inspection Rules and Regulation Title 19 subpart 197-4.2, a signed home inspection agreement is required before beginning the home inspection.
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How long does it take for an inspection to be completed?
About 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the age and size of the home and the weather conditions. The most important thing is the quality of the inspection and attention to detail, which can sometimes extend the inspection time.
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What is included in the inspection?
A home inspection consist of a visual observation of the home's:
Heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, roofing, basement, attic, plumbing systems, electrical systems, walls, windows, doors, exterior of house, insulation, stairs, decks, balconies, stoops, walkways and porch. Railings are also inspected as well as eaves, soffits, and fascias, vegetation, grading, drainage, driveways, garages, retaining walls etc. Soon after the inspection is completed you will be provided a detailed report which will include information pertaining to areas of concern.
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Should I accompany the inspector?
If possible YES, within the last 45 minutes of the inspection for an in depth review of the property.
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Will you be able to tell me if I should buy the property?
No. You will have to make that determination yourself.
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What are the rules for home inspectors in New York State?
It is important for our clients to fully understand what the law requires and what an inspection cover. Please see the NYS Home Inspector Standards of Practice. An inspection can uncover many issues, but it cannot do the impossible, which is to guarantee that no issues will happen in the future. It can only uncover possible current issues that are readily visible during the inspection.
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Are there limits to the home inspection?
Yes. To get a detailed idea of the scope of a typical home inspection, please review the NYS Standards of Practice for the Home Inspectors (beginning on page 12, Subpart 197-5). It details everything a NYS licensed inspector is required and not required to do during an inspection.
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Will the inspection find everything that’s wrong with the home?
It’s physically impossible to find every possible issue with a home, considering some issues can be behind walls, or may not be showing any outward signs that can be seen during a visual inspection.
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When will my home inspection report be ready?
Generally, you'll have your report within 24 hours. Reports for inspections completed Saturday afternoon may not be completed until Monday however every effort will be made to provide your report to you within 24 hours.
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Can I contact you with questions after I receive the report?
Absolutely. Your report will be as detailed as humanly possible, complete with photos of defects. I welcome any questions you may have about the report, or anything on the report that needs clarifying.
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Are you Insured and Licensed?
Yes, I'm fully insured and New York State licensed. I'm also certified by both the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (Internachi) and American Home Inspectors Training Institute, (AHIT).
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There is a pet at the inspection site - is this a problem?
During an inspection, inspectors have to walk around the residence opening doors and windows, walking up and down stairs, and may leave and enter the residence multiple times. To prevent potential problems it’s necessary that your pet is supervised during the inspection.
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What about small children?
Due to the potential for injury, it is suggested that small children be supervised during the inspection.
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How is a Repair Listing inspection different from a buyer's inspection?
A Repair Listing inspection is an invaluable tool for the seller. There may be issues with the property that can easily be fixed that can maintain or add value to the home if addressed prior to closing which can increase the value of the property and reduce haggling over the price of the property.
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What are your service area?
Brooklyn, Manhattan, Bronx and Queens New York City.
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Do you walk on roofs?
It depends on the slope of the roof, condition of the roof covering, weather conditions, etc. Brownstones, multi unit houses and single story ranch style homes are usually safe but some two story house roofs exceed safety procedures and is inspected using other means.
Q Home Inspections LLC