Anderson Home Inspection LLC, provides home inspections in Milwaukee, Waukesha and all of Southeastern Wisconsin

A Home Inspector examines the observable systems and components of real property that are readily accessible. The major concerns are Roof, Foundation, Windows, Heating/ Cooling, Plumbing and Electric (see the Standards of Practice for a more complete description). You will be provided a written report that will list any material adverse facts (conditions that significantly reduce the functionality or structural integrity of systems or components or conditions that pose a significant health or safety risk) that a home inspector has knowledge of or has observed.  The report also describes the condition of systems or components that, if not repaired, will have significant adverse effect on their life expectancy.

No House is Perfect

Even brand new homes can have imperfections. But that doesn’t mean you should give up on your dream home. It does mean that when you feel you’ve found the right house, you need to go one step further and find out what issues are present and what the significant financial, health and safety implications are. Buying a house is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make, so it makes good sense to have it checked out by one of the best inspectors available.

Why have a home inspection performed?

The unknown can be a source of anxiety for any home buyer or seller. A home inspection is for buyers or sellers who want to know more about major financial, health or safety issues that are discovered prior to the transfer of ownership. After deciding that a home is suitable in terms of location, size, interior layout and other lifestyle factors, it is very important to learn about the systems and components that pose a significant financial, health or safety exposure. As a buyer, don’t wait until after you move in to find significant concerns; as a seller, don’t wait for the buyer’s home inspection results and be under a time constraint to address issues you did not realize you had. Hire a well experienced/ trained Home Inspector.

Some questions answered during an inspection?

• Are there signs of structural or seepage problems in the basement and/ or attic?
• What is the condition of the roof? Are there signs of past or ongoing leaks?
• Is the chimney sound, safe and functional?
• What types of Heating/ Cooling system/s are present and what problems were observed?
• Is the electrical panel properly wired; are there any special safety concerns?
• Do the observed insulation levels appear to be adequate?
• Are there safety concerns with the fireplace?
• What is the general condition of the exterior house envelope?
• What is the general condition of the interior?
• Crawl Space – moisture and/or structural problems?

Our custom inspection reports will identify the systems and components, their observed condition and what, if any, recommended corrective action (maintain, repair, replace, further evaluation) is advised.

Click here to view a sample of our custom inspection reports.

How long does it take?

The time to perform a thorough Home Inspection and produce a comprehensive Report will vary according to the size, age and condition of the house. Other influential factors are the accessibility (or lack thereof) of the roof, attic, basement and/ or crawl space, electric panel, furnace or boiler and the water heater. For example, a 15 year old, 2,500 square foot house with a basement, takes about 3 – 4 hours to inspect and finish the report.

Can I follow the inspector and ask questions as we go?

Absolutely! There are usually 3 options. For first time home buyers, it is important for you to understand how the house works from an operational standpoint. By attending the inspection, you are able to see first-hand the conditions that will be described in the report. It also allows the inspector to show you what to do in case of emergency regarding the electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. If you have any particular concerns about the property, this is the time to get answers. A good inspector will encourage questions and take the time to explain things so that you can be more comfortable with your decision to purchase the home.

For people who have owned homes previously or feel they are too busy and may get bored watching the inspector document conditions for 3 plus hours, we suggest arriving 2 hours after the inspector. When you arrive, the inspector will walk you through the entire inspection showing you the issues in less than ½ the time it took to inspect the property. If the inspector isn’t quite finished, this will still give you time to measure rooms or do another walk-around.

The third option is for those who can’t take time off to attend an inspection. We can do inspections without you present. We typically take 100 plus pictures/ images and maybe 20 – 50 make it to the report. With images and arrows showing the relevant issues, many savvy/ experienced home buyers have found it unnecessary to attend the inspection.

Credentials

It is important that you choose your inspection company carefully. There are professional bodies that oversee their membership; the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). Membership requires a passing grade on a series of examinations, annual upgrading of education and adherence to the strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. If you choose an inspector who is not a member of one of these organizations, you run the risk of getting a less than adequate (or accurate) inspection report. Be sure to check other references such as the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, Google, Yahoo, Facebook, etc.

How much lead time is required to book an inspection?

Depending on the time of year, you should allow yourself at least 5 – 7 business days to be sure of arranging a time that works for everyone involved. Good inspectors are often booked out over a week. Don’t wait till the last minute to schedule your inspection.

The purchase of a home is one of the most exciting and important decisions you’ll make and you can’t afford to gamble on the outcome. So, before you buy your next house, call Anderson Home Inspection, LLC to schedule your inspection.

Important Links

Maintenance Guidelines	Maintenance Guidelines and Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Standards of Practice for Home Inspectors	Standards of Practice
Sample Home Inspection Report	Sample
Inspection Agreement	Agreement