Typical Elements covered within our Services for:
Home Inspections, Reports and Environmental Testing.
The Structure: The AHI inspector will inspect entry ways, foundations, siding and porches looking for such symptoms of trouble as sagging roof lines, gaps in or damage to the siding, porches pulling away from the building, obvious signs of rot or insect damage (although this is not a substitute for a pest inspection) settlement, certain types of cracks in foundations. Inspectors will usually probe the sill or rim (the wooden support that sits on the foundation and into which the framing is fastened) and framing where it is exposed, to test for soft or hollow spots caused by rot or pests.
The Exterior: An exterior inspection will include a visual assessment of decks, balconies, eaves, soffits and fascia. The AHI inspector will look at the grading of the land around the house for obvious drainage problems, and check walkways and driveways for apparent deterioration or safety concerns. We will also visually inspect vegetation surrounding the house for obvious problems such as the intrusion of roots near the foundation or buried utilities or overgrowth that might promote excess humidity or contribute to security issues. Electric garage door openers should be checked to confirm they are in compliance with current safety standards. The exterior inspection is not expected to include outbuildings or fences, or any evaluation of hydraulic or geologic conditions unless AHI is conducting a Comprehensive Property Inspection, see Rate Card.
Roofing Inspection: In most cases the AHI inspector will get up on any roof, to tackle low slopes, or if too dangerous we will rely on binoculars to check portions of the roof visible from the ground or will inspect lower parts of roofs from upper floor windows. The age of a roof might be as good an indicator of its condition as an actual visual check and a good inspector can usually estimate the real life of a 20 or 25 year roof in a given climate or on a particular type of construction. Where safely possible, we will also report on roof drainage systems, flashings, skylights, chimneys, and roof penetrations (for vents and flues).
Plumbing Inspection: The AHI inspector will check consist of testing the interior water supply and distribution system including water pressure, water heating equipment (estimating age and approximate time to replacement) and the appropriateness of vents, flues, and chimneys. The AHI inspector will flush toilets to check for leaks and run all faucets to assess water pressure and the immediacy and volume of available hot water.
Electrical System Inspection: The AHI inspector will check for over current protections, grounding, and the presence of any aluminum wiring (a serious fire hazard and banned for many years in most states). The AHI inspector will remove the cover plate of the electrical panel to further check the wiring if safe to do so. The AHI inspector should also check a representative number of switches and outlets in the house and note the adequacy of smoke detectors if the state does not require a separate inspection by the local fire department before the deed transfers.
Heating and Air Conditioning Systems: No matter the time of year the furnace should be tested by turning up the thermostat and checking the response. Air conditioning cannot be checked if the ambient outdoor temperature is below a certain point. If the energy source is oil an inspector will check the condition of the tank and any visible lines running from the tank to the furnace. Some inspectors will run an efficiency check on the furnace for an additional charge.
Home Interior: Our inspections include a visual scan of floors, walls and ceilings for signs of water intrusion, or sagging. Stairways and railings will be checked for safety and code compliance and a sample of windows and doors inspected for condition and ease of operation. We’ll look at countertops and a representative number of the kitchen cabinet interiors and drawers for condition and integrity. The basement should be checked for indications of previous water intrusion in addition to signs of structural problems.
Ventilation: Poor ventilation can lead to rot, mold, poor air quality or excessive energy consumption. AHI will check insulation and vapor barriers in unfinished areas of the attic and in the foundation area and look for the presence and operation of any mechanical ventilation systems in the attic and other high humidity areas such as kitchens and bath.
Appliances: AHI will usually run a dishwasher through a full cycle and will check stove burners and oven to make sure each is operating properly. If other appliances such as washer, dryer, or microwave are to be included in the purchase these will also be checked to make sure they are at least in operating condition.
Fireplaces: Fireplaces, particularly in older homes, are a frequent source of problems. Inspectors should check for the integrity of the flue, proper draft, any blockages in the chimney (even a birds nest can be a major problem), and will visually inspect, as much as possible, the exterior of the chimney for damage to bricks, pointing, and flashing.
Building Inspection Reports: A thorough home inspection results in lots of information. AHI will advise you, as a buyer, seller, property manager, bank, insurance or real estate agent to make the best use of our inspection and the resulting data.
Walkthrough Inspections: A Walkthrough inspection is designed for the Homebuyer to make an informed decision of a house or property prior to an offer to know exactly what may need immediate attention on the conditions, defects and more importantly the longevity of the major building components in question; such as the roof, stucco, etc., that would be typically covered by a Full Inspection, except it's a short-cut analysis without the long form of a written certified inspection report. The cost of Walkthrough Inspections are typically deducted from the cost of a Full Inspection on the same property thereafter the Real Estate offer has been accepted.
Reinspection: A reinspection report is very necessary for Real Estate Closing documents if defects were found and repaired by others. AHI will performed a reinspection typically included or at Special Quote each to be determined; and after the work and repairs have been completed to ensure the work has been properly executed. If the work has not been satisfactorily completed to building standards another inspection may be necessary.
Construction Draw Inspections: AHI is expert in the performance for all Construction Draw Inspections as per state, county and city standards to determine the percentage of completion in values for the contractor/ builder's request per draw amount. AHI works for mortgage banks for reverse mortgages and lending intuitions such as with: Partner Associates, Pegasus Bank, Gateway Mortgage Group, and Wells Fargo. Typical cost for each Inspection Report & Field Assessment is by Special Quote. See Agreements and Reports
Check out... MOLDBUSTERS...
Go to MOLDBUSTERS and Mold & Remediation Plans pages of this Website to review AHI's Mold Testingand Remediation Services is one of our chief specialties and we have a proven reputation and track record as Certified Mold Inspectors within the state of New Mexico to test for mold spores and mold growth; and to solve your serious mold problems with the best technologies in order to remove any pending Health Risks!
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