Frequently Asked Questions
What does a home inspection include?
A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of the home's major systems and components. My inspections cover everything required under the New York State Home Inspection Standards of Practice, including the structure, foundation, roof, exterior, electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, interior, insulation and ventilation, fireplaces, and other accessible components.
Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection is also included with my standard home inspection.
I'll document my findings with photos and clear descriptions, and explain any significant defects, safety concerns, or maintenance items I find. The goal is to give you a clear understanding of the home's condition—not just hand you a checklist.
How long does a home inspection take?
I typically schedule up to 3 hours for a home inspection, but the actual time can vary depending on the size, age, condition, and complexity of the home. Larger homes or properties with additional systems and components may take longer.
I don't rush through an inspection just to stay on a schedule. The goal is to take the time needed to properly evaluate the home and document what I find.
Do I need to attend my home inspection?
You don't have to be there, but I highly recommend it if you're able to attend. Being present gives you the opportunity to see the property firsthand, ask questions, and better understand the things I find during the inspection.
Home Inspector
If you can't make it, that's okay. I'll still complete the inspection and provide you with a detailed report documenting my findings.
When will I receive my inspection report?
Your inspection report will be delivered the same day whenever possible, and always within 24 hours of the inspection. The report includes photos, clear descriptions of findings, and organized information to help you understand the condition of the home.
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
Finding problems doesn't necessarily mean you should walk away from the home. My job is to identify and document what I see and explain what it means. I'll clearly point out safety concerns, significant defects, and maintenance items so you can make an informed decision and, when appropriate, discuss repairs or further evaluation with the seller or a qualified specialist.
Do you do new construction inspections?
Yes. New construction homes should still be inspected. Even brand-new homes can have installation issues, incomplete work, or defects that aren't immediately obvious.
I also offer 11-month warranty inspections for homeowners approaching the end of their builder's warranty period. This inspection can help identify issues that may need to be addressed before the warranty expires.
Whether you're buying a newly built home or nearing the end of your warranty period, the goal is to document the home's condition and identify concerns that may need attention.
Do you inspect older homes?
Absolutely. Older homes can have their own unique characteristics and potential concerns, but age alone doesn't make a home a bad investment.
I inspect the home's accessible systems and components according to the New York State Standards of Practice, while paying close attention to conditions that are common in older homes. I'll document what I find and explain any concerns so you have a better understanding of the property's condition.
Do you inspect pools?
Yes! Pool and spa inspections are available as part of my inspection services. I look at the accessible pool, spa, equipment, and related components for visible defects and safety concerns.
I also include pool water chemistry testing to give you a better idea of how well the pool has been maintained. The water sample is analyzed by a third-party pool company, which provides a detailed report based on the results.
If the water chemistry needs attention, their report includes recommendations, step-by-step instructions, and product recommendations to help bring the water back into balance.
Do you inspect well systems?
Yes. Well systems are evaluated as part of my standard home inspection in accordance with the New York State Standards of Practice. I evaluate the accessible components of the system and look for visible deficiencies, safety concerns, and conditions that may warrant further evaluation.
I also offer well flow testing as an additional service to evaluate the well's ability to provide a consistent water supply.
For water quality, I offer water testing through a licensed New York State laboratory. Testing options include an FHA water test for Total Coliform, E. coli, lead, nitrate, and nitrite. More comprehensive testing is also available when needed.
Well flow testing and water testing are additional services and are not included in the standard home inspection. Testing can be tailored to the property and your specific needs.
What areas do you service?
I proudly serve homeowners, buyers, sellers, and investors throughout the Capital Region and surrounding areas, including Albany, Rensselaer, Columbia, Montgomery, and Schenectady Counties, as well as surrounding communities.
My service area extends west toward the Great Sacandaga Lake region and north into southern Hamilton County, including Indian Lake.
Don't see your town listed? Contact me — I may still be able to help.
How do I schedule an inspection?
You can book online using the scheduling link below, or give me a call or text at 518-944-5447.
If you're calling or texting for a quote, have the property address ready so I can look up the property details and give you an accurate price.
Ready to schedule? Use the booking link below to choose a date and time that works for you.
Do you offer Pre-listing inspections?
Yes. A pre-listing inspection gives you an opportunity to understand the condition of your home before putting it on the market.
I'll document the home's accessible systems and components and identify issues that may come up during the buyer's inspection. Knowing about potential problems ahead of time gives you the opportunity to address them, plan for repairs, or disclose them appropriately before listing.
The goal is to help make the selling process more predictable and avoid surprises during the buyer's inspection.
Do you perform commercial inspections?
Yes. I offer commercial building inspections for a variety of commercial properties.
Commercial inspections focus on the accessible building systems and components, with attention to the property's overall condition, safety concerns, and significant deficiencies.
If you're considering purchasing or maintaining a commercial property, a commercial inspection can help you better understand what you're getting into and identify areas that may require further evaluation or repair.
Do you inspect septic systems?
Yes. I visually inspect accessible septic system components and look for visible signs of damage, leakage, or other conditions that may indicate a problem.
I also offer septic dye testing as an additional service. Dye testing can help evaluate whether the septic system is accepting and dispersing wastewater as expected and can identify visible signs of surfacing or leakage.
I do not pump or clean septic tanks. If pumping or further evaluation is needed, I can recommend having the system evaluated by a qualified septic professional.
