Why do I need a home inspection?
Because that “perfect” four-bedroom, two-bath house you stumbled upon in a beautiful suburban neighborhood could hide some serious problems. The best way for homebuyers to find out about potential issues is by getting a professional home inspection. It can save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs or help you negotiate the price of the property to have the repairs made.
I am a qualified, experienced certified master inspector who will thoroughly inspect and report on your potential home’s defects.
Are you a member of a professional inspection organization?
Yes. D’Angelo Property Inspections is a member of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNachi) since 2008.
Any reputable home inspector will be a member of either the National Association of Home Inspectors or the American Society of Home Inspectors.
Each organization has certification and licensing procedures and requires members to follow procedural and ethical standards when conducting home inspections. Membership to one of these organizations doesn’t guarantee a home inspector is an expert, but you should probably rule out any inspectors who aren’t members of a respected professional organization.
What’s your background?
I started out in the building industry many years before coming into the real estate inspection service. I have been inspecting residential homes, condominiums and commercial properties in south Florida since 2004.
The best home inspectors are typically those who have experience in the building industry. You want to work with an inspector who knows what’s inside the walls of your home and understands the basics of local building codes and requirements. (Note: A home inspector will not be able to tell you if every single plumbing, electrical and/or structural aspect of your potential home is up to the latest codes. For this, you’ll need a more specialized inspection by a licensed plumber, electrician or contractor.)
Background is especially important if you’re planning to purchase an older home, as inspectors may need to look for problems in older homes that are uncommon in newer properties. So if you’re buying an older home – or a fixer-upper – find an inspector with a background in inspecting similar homes.
How much experience do you have?
I am a Certified Master Inspector with over 12 years of experiece in the home & building inspection field.
It’s OK to work with a rookie home inspector who has a background in construction or home repair. But be sure you hire someone who has, at the very least, undergone extensive training – or who will have the assistance of a more experienced inspector during the inspection.
How long will the inspection take?
On average, a home inspection should take two to three hours to perform. If you’re dealing with a large home, a fixer-upper or an older home, the inspection should take even longer. Don’t hire someone who promises to be in and out within an hour or two, as this is too short a time to thoroughly inspect a home.
What will you inspect?
We will evaluate every possible visible place in your home, including the roof, crawl space and attic.
We will also look at things such as the water heater, air conditioning system and the electrical panel.
Please note that the inspector may be unable to tell you if your home’s systems are up to local codes. But the professional should have enough knowledge to inform you if the systems are safe or in need of major repairs.
Keep in mind that the home inspector cannot inspect things that are not visible. The inspection won’t reveal any wiring problems hidden behind drywall or any mold problems under the shower tiles.
As a consumer, you should take the time to examine the Standards of Practice followed by your inspector.
Can I attend the inspection?
Yes of course!
A refusal to this simple request is a red flag. A home inspection is a fabulous opportunity to learn about your home and talk about any possible repairs that may be needed. A good inspector will take you along on the inspection, if you wish. A great inspector will talk you through everything he sees.
What kind of inspection do you offer?
We provide a detailed computerized report in a PDF format. It includes pictures and estimates for items that may require a repair of replacement. We typically provide it within 24 hours from the time the inspection has been completed.