Frequently Asked Questions

Dedicating an entire day allows time to thoroughly examine every accessible component without rushing through checklists. This pace catches details that matter in major systems like electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and structural elements. The unhurried approach includes a walk-through summary so you see exactly what the inspector found and why it matters.

Pre-listing inspections happen before the property goes on the market, giving sellers time to address problems that could derail negotiations or reduce offers. Buyer's inspections happen after an offer is accepted, revealing conditions that affect purchase decisions. Sellers who inspect first often face fewer surprises and smoother closings because issues are already documented or repaired.

New construction inspections happen before closing, even though the home is brand new. Builders sometimes leave work incomplete, install components incorrectly, or overlook defects during final walk-throughs. An independent inspection identifies these issues while the builder is still responsible for corrections, before you take ownership and warranty periods begin.

A specialized camera travels through the accessible sewer line, revealing cracks, blockages, root intrusion, pipe separation, and deterioration invisible from above ground. The visual footage shows whether the line is clay, cast iron, or PVC, and identifies sections that may need repair or replacement. This prevents discovering a several-thousand-dollar sewer problem after you've already purchased the home.

Radon testing uses measurement equipment placed inside the property for a specific period to detect elevated radon levels in indoor air. Colorado's geology and soil composition make some areas more prone to radon infiltration through foundation cracks and gaps. Test results show whether mitigation systems may be needed to reduce long-term exposure risk.

Inspectors check for outdated wiring methods, improper panel configurations, overloaded circuits, missing ground wires, and reversed polarity in outlets. Aluminum wiring, knob-and-tube systems, and Federal Pacific panels indicate potential safety concerns. Visible burn marks, melted insulation, or hot spots suggest active problems requiring immediate attention from a licensed electrician.

Inspectors evaluate accessible components including heat exchangers, blower motors, ductwork connections, refrigerant lines, condensate drains, and thermostat operation. They look for rust, corrosion, improper installation, inadequate clearances, and signs the system is undersized or oversized for the home. These findings reveal whether the system is nearing replacement or just needs maintenance.

Stains, cracks, bulging, and texture changes indicate hidden problems like roof leaks, plumbing failures, foundation settlement, or structural movement. Inspectors also check whether walls are plumb, floors are level, and doors close properly without gaps. These observations reveal whether cosmetic issues mask larger concerns affecting the home's structure or systems.

Inspectors evaluate whether grading slopes away from the foundation, downspouts discharge far enough from the home, and soil settlement has created low spots that trap water. Clay soils in the Grand Valley expand when wet and contract when dry, creating foundation movement if drainage isn't managed. Proper grading prevents basement seepage, foundation cracks, and crawl space moisture problems.

Common findings include incomplete flashing around windows and doors, HVAC ducts disconnected in attics or crawl spaces, missing insulation in walls or ceilings, and electrical outlets or switches not properly secured. Grading and drainage are sometimes incomplete, and paint or caulking may be rushed. These defects are easier to correct before closing than after you move in.

The walk-through lets you see findings in person while the inspector explains what each issue means, whether it's urgent or routine, and what repairs typically involve. You can ask questions, understand context, and prioritize concerns before reading the written report. This face-to-face review makes technical findings clearer and helps you decide what to negotiate or address immediately.

InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspectors complete training in residential inspection standards, building systems, defect recognition, and reporting practices. Certification requires passing examinations and adhering to a standards-of-practice framework that defines what gets inspected and how findings are documented. This credential indicates the inspector follows industry-recognized inspection protocols rather than informal methods.