FAQs about Home Inspections

What is a “Home Inspection”?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation by an expert in the field. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation. The inspection will also point out positive aspects of the home as well as the maintenance necessary to keep it in shape. If you are currently a home owner and looking to sell your house, you may want to get the home inspected before putting it out on the market for an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What if the inspector identifies problems with the house?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the house but it does give you an idea of what to expect in repairs down the line. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If you are able to be with the inspector at the time of the inspection, you can ask questions directly and you will find the written report easier to understand and there will be no surprises. If the house is in good condition, you now can finish the purchase and sale with your eyes open as to the condition of the property, its equipment and systems.

What will a home inspection cost?
The inspection fee varies geographically as does the cost of housing. Some of the other variables are the size of the house, its age, and other items such as septic systems, well or radon testing. You should check references on the home inspectors you are considering instead of just price shopping. You do not want the life-changing decision of buying a home to be something to regret.

What is Radon and why should I test for Radon?
Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas that you can not see, taste or smell and comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. You can have high radon levels no matter what type of home you have, new, old, well sealed, and homes with or without basements. Radon comes from soil gas and less frequently from well water and some building materials. Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs as you breathe. This can damage lung tissue and can lead to lung cancer if living with it for a long period of time.

How do you test for Radon?
HomeQuest Consultants, Inc. offers two forms of Radon in Air Testing.
The first is a twin canister test kit that is an EPA approved Radon Test Kit from Environmental Science Labs. The inspector will place the canisters at the time of the inspection. The buyer and/or Real Estate Broker representing the buyer can pick up the canisters after 48 hours of exposure
The second type of testing and the most reliable is the Radalink Telemonitor. This monitoring system is also a 48-hour test. Radalink’s precision electronics produce results with integrity. Unlike unreliable, less sophisticated tin can test devices, the Telemonitor records hourly readings during a 48-hour test period. Its multiple tamper detection features help inspection professionals ensure that the EPA’s radon measurement protocol is properly followed.
We also perform Radon Water Testing for homes with wells.

What does a high Radon level mean? Does it make a house un-sellable?
A high radon level does not make a house un-sellable but it should be made safe before the sale. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for radon are less than 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If the level is above 4.0, a Radon mitigation system is recommended to be put into the home based on the EPA. Most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs. The average cost for a contractor to lower radon levels in a home is about $1200 but can range from $500 - $2,500. Mitigation for radon in water will be handled on a case by case basis and current options will be discussed.

What other services do you provide? We perform:
· Water Quality and Quantity testing
· Carbon Monoxide testing
· Structural testing
· We provide a comprehensive report with pictures
· Termite FHA/VA pest inspections
· Title V Septic inspections