FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ANSWERS TO WHAT YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING

Please reach us at Info@integrityhomeinspectionsusa.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Will my home inspector be Covid-19 vaccinated and/or wear a face mask?

Yes! One of the many benefits of using a small family business is that we choose to share our status with you. Proof of vaccination will be provided upon request. We also wear face masks.

Should I have the home tested for radon ?

Absolutely.

Radon is an odorless and invisible radioactive gas released when some naturally occurring radioactive materials break down in rocks, soil and water and can build up to dangerous levels inside homes or buildings. 

Any home can have a radon problem. Whether your home is drafty or well-sealed, radon can still build up and get trapped inside.  Radon can enter the home through several ways:

  • Cracks in solid floors and walls
  • Construction joints
  • Gaps in suspended floors
  • Gaps around service pipes
  • Cavities inside walls
  • Water supplies

When you breathe in radon, radioactive particles from the decay of radon gas can get trapped in your lungs. Over time, these radioactive particles increase the risk of lung cancer. It may take years before health problems appear.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General’s office estimate radon is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. 

Is it okay to perform the home inspection myself?

Inspecting your own potential home is not recommended. Home inspectors are specially trained to look for things you may miss. Unless you are a home inspector yourself, seek out a professional. Some states or financial lenders require a licensed inspector to complete the inspection.

What does the inspection include?

The inspection will meet all applicable requirements in your state and will comply with the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) standards of practice and code of ethics. A copy of this information will be provided to you within your home inspection report and is available here as well: https://s3.amazonaws.com/uploads-east-1.nachi.org/page-uploads%2F2020%2F03%2F1584478818326-Home+Inspection+Standards+of+Practice.pdf

What is excluded on the inspection?
Are you specifically trained in residential inspection?

Absolutely! Tennessee and Mississippi each have rigorous training requirements, requiring 90 hours and 60 hours, respectively. Additionally, Tennessee and Mississippi each require passing the National Home Inspector Examination at a proctored testing facility. Inspectors are often mentored by other inspectors and conduct a great number of inspections under the eye of an instructor or another inspector/mentor. Lastly, ongoing education never ends. In order to maintain home inspector certification, inspectors must complete additional training every two years.

Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?

We do not. We believe this to be a conflict of interest, as do the states of Tennessee and Mississippi. Many inspector associations and regulations strictly forbid home inspectors from offering repairs due to this conflict of interest. In simple terms, our name is Integrity.

We will not accept referral fees or any gratuities from services providers, nor will we do any work ourselves to remedy items noted on an inspection.

How long will the inspection take?

The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours, depending on the condition and size of the property. Exceptionally large homes, inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances may require a longer period to perform the inspection. The quality of the inspection is our priority.

How much will the inspection cost?

Costs will vary based on the age of the home, type of inspection, square footage of the property, and other variables such as distance, crawl spaces, and other special circumstances. A typical cost range is $300–$400. Larger homes may require more time to inspect and may cost more. Considering the overall investment being made in a new home purchase, an inspection is a minimal expense that offers maximum peace of mind.

What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?

We utilize Spectora inspection software, a leader within the home inspection industry. More importantly, we provide you with a comprehensive report that is easy-to-read and provides additional value by offering resource links on home maintenance.

Reports are typically provided within 24 hours of the completion of the inspection.

Will I be able to attend the inspection?

Absolutely! The inspection serves as a fantastic educational opportunity. In the interest of safety, the inspector may ask you to remain at a distance for areas that could present danger to you, such as the attic, roofs, and electrical panels.  Some clients prefer to meet the inspector at the end of the inspection to discuss findings and ask questions. The choice is yours.

Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?

We are a proud member of The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®). This organization is well-respected within the industry and provides inspectors with an abundance of resources and continuing education opportunities.

Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?

Yes! Continuing education is required to maintain a home inspector license in the states of Tennessee and Mississippi. We never stop learning! 

· MS – 20 hours every two years

· TN – 32 hours every two years

Is it possible for a home to fail the inspection?

No. The home inspector does not indicate a “pass” or “fail” on the inspection report. The inspection is designed to inform you of the deficiencies or maintenance items within the home that require your consideration. There may be some requirements that the house needs to meet for your financial lender to lend you the money for the home. 

What happens if the inspection reveals problems?

If your home inspection reveals items of concern, it is important to understand the severity of the defect. For example, a missing or dirty air filter can be easily corrected at a low cost. Conversely, if the defect is more extreme, such as a major foundation crack, or substantial roof repairs, you can then determine how these problems might be addressed.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR INSPECTIONS

Prior to making the biggest purchasing decision of your life, have a professional thoroughly inspect your future home!

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