What do I do if my home fails the inspection?
This is not a pass/fail inspection. Your home inspector evaluates hundreds of items in the home for structural, functional and safety concerns. Items may be classified as "In need of repair" for relatively minor reasons (such as a broken knob on a stove) or major ones. As the client, YOU decide how significant each item is, and what action needs to be taken. If you're a home buyer, you may choose to renegotiate the price to allow for needed repairs.

My house is brand new or still under construction. Can I just get a copy of the builder's or city inspectors' report?
Those reports (if they exist) might have some interesting information, but it would be along the lines of having an eye doctor examine your heart. Consider who's paying for the inspection to determine who that inspector works for. When you hire an independent home inspector, they work for you with no financial interest in the outcome. You pay the same for the inspection whether you buy the home or not.

Do I have to be at the inspection?
No. I encourage you to be there at the end of the inspection so I can review my findings with you on-site, but the final written report is thorough and complete. If you have questions after receiving the report, please call me.

Does my real estate agent need to attend the inspection? Not usually. Most homes on the market in this area have a key available in a lock-box near the front door. As a member of the Houston Association of Realtors, I have a SUPRA key which provides me access to those boxes. Others have a combination lock and I will work with your agent to obtain the code. Your agent is welcome to attend if their schedule permits.

Who gets the final report?
You, as my client, decide the answer to that question. Unless you instruct me otherwise, I'll send a copy to your real estate agent. If you want me to send copies to anyone else, just let me know.

When will I receive the final report?
I understand you have limited time to deal with. I strive to have the report available to you within 24 hours after the inspection. So far, I have never failed to meet my deadline.

Some inspectors deliver their report on site. Why don't you?
My reports include photos and detailed text. It takes time to complete them. I don't believe it's appropriate to make you wait around unnecessarily for me to do my job. You can get back to your business while I complete the report in my office.

How long does an inspection take?
It depends on the size and condition of the home. A rough estimate is an hour for every 1000 square feet, with a minimum of 2 hours.

Do you include termite, well, septic, and/or pool inspections?
Personally, I think it's best to have specialists to perform those inspections. I have a working relationship with proven professionals in each area, and will be happy to contact them on your behalf. They are generally able to arrange to be there at the same time I am, so you don't have to try to coordinate several schedules.

*NOTE - I do not pay or receive any compensation for the referral of business to or from other individuals or businesses.

My real estate agent told me to use a specific inspector. Can I choose someone else?
This is YOUR inspection. You need to choose an inspector you feel comfortable with. As long as you're paying the bill, you get to choose who you want.