Prestige Home Inspection Services is locally owned and operated in Huntingtown, Maryland.
MD license # 31249
About our Inspection
Our typical home inspection requires 3 to 4 hours depending on the size of the home, the clients concerns, any unusual findings and any special testing required. Home inspections are performed in accordance with the strict American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), standards of practice and code of ethics. This ensures that your home inspection is performed to a strict set of standards and a comprehensive ethical requirement which are accepted nationally. Before the inspection an agreement and general information about each aspect of the home inspection is reviewed and approved by the client. Clients are not required to be present during the inspection but it is highly recommended for the benefit and education of the client to assist in making an informed decision. All major systems are inspected including but not limited to:
· Structural Systems - Foundation, Framing, Crawlspace, Attic
· Exterior - Wall coverings, Doors, Windows, Decks, Steps, Walkways, Driveways, Vegetation and Grading
· Roof System - Roof coverings, Drainage system, Chimneys, Skylights and other Roof penetrations
· Plumbing System - Interior water supply and distribution system, Faucets and drains, vents and flues, Water heating equipment, Fuel storage and distribution systems, Sumps
· Electrical System - Service entrance and conductors, cables and raceways, Over-current protection, Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI's), Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCI’s)
· Heating system - Heating equipment, Vents, Flues and Chimneys
· Air Conditioning System - Central and thru-the-wall equipment
· Interior - Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Doors, Windows
· Insulation and Ventilation - Insulation and Vapor retarders in unfinished spaces, Attic and Foundation ventilation
· Fireplaces and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances - System components, Vents, Flues, Chimneys
At the conclusion of the home inspection the findings are reviewed with the client and any questions or concerns are discussed at that time. A report will be givien to the client on-site. Payment is expected at the conclusion of the inspection.
Preparation before the Inspection
These items can be taken care of for little or no cost. This information applies to buyers and sellers (things to look for or repair).
· Provide clear access to the attic, crawlspace, heat/AC systems, water heater, appliances, garage and all other areas that require inspection. This is important because inspectors are not required to move personal items, furniture, equipment, etc.
· Keep grade or mulch six to eight inches from contact with siding.
· Clean gutters and remove debris from the roof.
· Divert all water away from house, i.e. downspouts, sump pump, condensation drains, etc. Grade should slope away from structure. Clean out basement entry drains.
· Trim trees and bushes back from house and clean any staining.
· Paint and caulk all weathered exterior wood.
· Seal asphalt driveways if cracking.
· Clean or replace heating/AC filters.
· Test all smoke detectors.
· Clean chimney, fireplace, or wood stove (if professionally cleaned provide a copy for buyer).
· Put all windows and doors in proper operating condition, replace cracked windows.
· Check sump pump for proper operation.
· Replace any burned out light bulbs.
· Remove wood from contact with house.
· Install/check vapor barrier in crawlspace.
· Caulk all exterior wall penetrations.
· Caulk along tub/floor, tub/walls, tub/shower glass doors.
· Anticipate the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer being operated if they convey with home.
· Be prepared for questions such as: how old is the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer. dryer, A/C or heat pump, furnace (air handler), roof, windows, etc.
· Caulk along tub/floor, tub/walls, tub/shower glass doors