Full Home Inspection
The home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of the accessible areas of a residential property which is designed to identify defects within specific systems and components defined by the industry standards (State of New Mexico, InterNACHI and ASHI) that are both observed and deemed material by the inspection process. The scope of work may be modified by the Client and Inspector prior to the inspection process, but includes as a minimum the following:
ROOF - Coverings, Penetrations, Flashings and Drainage Systems
EXTERIOR - Siding, Flashings & Trim, Eaves, Soffits & Fascia, Vegetation, Grading and Drainage, Walkways, Driveways, Fences & Gates
STRUCTURE - Foundations, Wall Structures, Roof Structures, Attic & Crawlspaces, Decks, Porches & Balconies
HEATING AND COOLING - Heating Systems, Cooling Systems and Operating Controls
PLUMBING - Drain, Waste & Vent Systems, Water Lines & Valves, Plumbing Fixtures, Hot Water Systems, Fuel Storage & Distribution
VENTING AND DUCTING - Heating & Cooling Ductwork, Exhaust Systems, Attic & Crawlspace Ventilation, Damper Mechanisms
ELECTRICAL - Service Entrance Conductors, Panels, Breakers, Branch Wiring, Light Fixtures, Switches & Receptacles, GFCI & AFCI, Smoke / CO Detectors
FIREPLACE - Vents, Flues, Chimneys, Lintel, Firebox & Hearth, Doors, Frames, Dampers & Controls
INTERIOR - Doors, Windows, Flooring, Walls, Ceilings, Steps, Stairways & Railings, Countertops & Cabinets
APPLIANCES - Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Range/Oven/Cooktop, Built-in Microwave, Garbage Disposal
View a Sample Report
Termite and Dry Rot Inspections
I offer a supplemental Termite and Dry Rot inspection to the home inspection in an effort to provide a well rounded inspection service for my clients. Through the New Mexico Department of Agriculture I am a licensed Pest Management Consultant who is certified and qualified to inspect for all Category 7D wood destroying pests; such as termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees and wood boring beetles.
The inspection identifies if there is any visible evidence of WDO's through the inspection of all accessible areas. The report also evaluates whether there is evidence of prior treatments, and offers recommendations for treatment and prevention. The final report is submitted on the National Pest Management Associations form NPMA-33 and supplemental Dry Rot report.
Re-Inspection Services
As an additional service, the re-inspection service covers only items listed on the inspection report as "Deficient". We urge clients to acquire invoices from legitimate businesses that have the repairs outlined on the invoice from the seller.
The fee for the re-inspection service varies based on location and items to be re-inspected but is typically $75 for the Albuquerque Rio Rancho area and $125 for other areas such as Placitas, Los Lunas, and the East Mountains.
It is important to note that a re-inspection is an optional service and there is no guarantee that the inspector will be able to schedule the service within the time frame needed. It is often the case that there is a narrow window of time between the completion of repairs and the time of closing, so scheduling in advance is recommended.
A Biblical Approach to Home Inspections
The Golden Rule
One of the most well know Bible verses comes from Luke 6:31 where Jesus said “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Otherwise known as the golden rule, the passage calls us to remember to treat each other in a way that we would expect to be treated. As a home inspector, I strive to apply this teaching to the home inspection process. When I inspect a home, I do so as if I am the purchaser, and to what degree of care and meticulousness would I expect? Obviously, I would expect a very competent and complete inspection process and that is what I aim to achieve for every client.
The Trustworthy Advisor
From a Biblical perspective, there are numerous passages that pertain to being truthful. One such passage that I keep in mind is Proverbs 12:22 “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy”. Obviously, a home inspector should be truthful and honest in their services, but there are somewhat rare instances where a homeowner or realtor may plead with the inspector to omit or soften the impact of a particular discovery. It is absolutely crucial that a home inspector remain truthful by treating each and every home inspection by a set standard of evaluation that never waivers.
The Wisdom Seeker
From Proverbs 3:13 we learn that “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.” First and foremost, knowing that we have a Father in Heaven and seeking Him is the foundation for wisdom. The same principal should apply to every aspect of our lives including our work. It is certainly a common condition for many to become complacent in their work, which hinders their will to seek a greater understanding and thus a higher level of excellence. As a home inspector, I push myself to achieve improved inspection methods, more effective communication strategies and engage in continuing education.
The Joyful Heart
“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones” Proverbs 17:22. Having a cheerful and happy disposition plays an important part in the home inspection process, or any occupation for that matter. I recall a client stating that the last inspector was rude and did not discuss any of the details, and concluded by simply stating; “just wait for the report”. While an inspection report should contain all of the relevant information, there are subtle details that are sometimes only communicated in a friendly and cheerful personal discussion. Maybe there are days that I am less cheerful than others, but I always strive for a joyful heart and recall Psalm 118:24 “That this is the day which the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it”