No Home Inspection is Complete Without Time Well Spent in the Attic

If you’re in the market for a new home, it pays to have a home inspection company that isn’t afraid to peek into the dark corners where others may fear to tread, such as crawl spaces and attics. A detailed inspection of an attic can answer some critical questions about the home: How much and what kind of insulation is present? Is there adequate venting? Could there be hidden roof leaks? What about unwanted critters and wood-destroying insects?

The certified professionals at A-Pro Home Inspection perform complete 500-point inspections, so every accessible nook and cranny of a home, including the attic, gets a thorough examination. Here’s what you should expect from the attic portion of a home inspection:

Insulation: The inspector reports on the type of insulation (blown-in fiberglass or cellulose insulation, rolled or pre-cut fiberglass batt insulation), note its depth and thickness, and point out defects. These may include lack of insulation; double layer insulation compressed to the size of one layer; insulation blocking attic vents; improper installation; gaps, disturbances or unevenness; and flattened or dirty insulation that drastically prevents it from blocking the flow of heat.

Venting: A home stays cooler in the summer by expelling trapped solar-heated air, which translates into greater comfort and cost savings. A well-vented attic in winter prevents roof warming, which leads to the formation of destructive ice dams. Further, extreme summer heat in a poorly vented attic can cook shingles and roof sheathing, cutting short their intended life spans. Your home inspector will check to see if there is a proper balance of correctly placed intake and exit venting designed to keep the attic close to outside temperatures. This will help prevent high moisture levels that can damage roof and attic wood structures, harm roof decking, spur mold, and mildew growth, lead to paint failure, invite wood-destroying insects inside, and other concerns. An attic should have at least one square foot of ventilation for every 300 square feet of attic, according to the Federal Housing Administration. The home inspection will include an evaluation to determine if attic venting is present, the type of venting and if it’s performing as it should. Evidence that there may be inadequate attic venting includes shingle deterioration, mold, and mildew in the attic, wet insulation, excessive attic heat, and condensation on sheathing and rafters.

Framing: The home inspector will check exposed framing in the attic for signs of rot, damaged sheathing, sagging or bowing, and the general quality of the framing construction, which may give hints about the rest of the home’s skeleton.

Water Leakage: During the attic inspection, special attention will be given to areas that are prone to water leakages, such as around skylights, roof vents, and chimneys. It is not uncommon to find decaying sheathing, mold, and rotting wood where water penetration has occurred. Signs of a roof leak include water stains on roof sheathing, venting pipes, and framing, as well as matted insulation. Use of a moisture meter can assess the extent of the problem.

Pests: Finally, the inspector will check for signs of squirrels, bats, birds, rats, raccoons, and insects that can cause severe damage to a home, pose a health risk, and scare the living daylights out of you if one happens to jump on or fly by the breakfast table. Ripped screens, holes, nests, droppings, and evidence of chewed wires and wood will be noted in the inspection report.

Inspection of a home’s attic is just one part of an A-Pro 500-point inspection. To schedule a home inspection, call 1-509-731-4992 or visit here.

Bathroom Checkups—An Important Part of a Complete Home Inspection

For many home shoppers, a well-designed bathroom with ample space and modern embellishments is sure to attract a great deal of interest. After all, it’s one of the most frequently used rooms in a house. A recent survey found that over a lifetime, the average person spends more than two years in the bathroom. This translates into roughly 200 days in the shower and more shampoo than we care to calculate. It’s why a certified home inspector, like those at A-Pro Home Inspection, will take the necessary time to visually and operationally examine all aspects of this vital room, including countertops, flooring, walls and ceilings, toilets, tubs, shower compartments, cabinetry, vent fans and ductwork, and windows.

Don’t expect your inspector to make judgments about the outdated wallpaper or purple paint you dislike. That is beyond the scope of a home inspection. So before you become dazzled by sparkling stainless steel faucets and mosaic ceramic tiling, you’ll want to know about any problems with the bathroom that could cost you money down the road.

Here are four common ones found by A-Pro Home Inspectors:

Leaks:

Water is a home’s worst enemy, and nowhere will you find more water issues than in a bathroom. Your home inspector will check for signs of mold or mildew, report on the condition of the toilet seal, examine the tub and shower caulking, test faucets and the shower head for drips, and look at all surfaces for signs of water stains or dampness—a sign there may be leakage hidden behind walls and the ceiling. Carpeted bathrooms pose an even greater concern. The home inspector will check the carpet pad for moisture that can accumulate due to shower steam, water splashes, and a leaky toilet. Your inspector will advise you of the importance of regular cleaning of bathroom carpets to remove the presence of mold and urine.

Drainage/Water Pressure:

After running water, the home inspector will observe if the sink, toilet, and tub/shower are draining properly. Debris such as hair, dirt, paper towels, etc. can clog internal plumbing, restricting water flow. The inspector will also determine if there is adequate water pressure when fixtures are run at the same time. Severe water flow issues may be an indication of blockage in the main sewer line to the home.

Toilet Troubles:

The home inspector may report on a number of toilet problems, such as poor connection to the floor, cracks in the bowl or tank, a continuously running unit (which can damage the pump and cost homeowners’ money in high water bills), a failed flapper seal (which can cause leakage), and toilets that fill too slowly or take too long to flush.

Exhaust Fan Problems:

A Properly functioning bathroom exhaust fan is a good way to remove steam and odors, while preventing corrosion of hardware. The inspector will make sure the fan exhausts to the outside rather venting to the ceiling, attic or other room; examine the unit to determine if seals are tight and that is has been correctly installed; report on evidence of moisture or condensation associated with the fan; test the unit’s flow rate; and ensure that outside dampers are working.

Inspection of a home’s bathrooms is just one part of an A-Pro foundation-to-roof 500-point inspection. To schedule a home inspection, call 1-509-731-4992 or click here.

Home Buying 101 – Get a Home Inspection

When the purchase agreement is accepted, you usually have a limited timeline, as outlined in the agreement to complete the home inspection process, generally 5-10 days. If home inspection repairs are necessary or desired, then notify the seller of any unsatisfactory results. 

There can be other parts to a home inspection, including sewer scope inspection, termite inspection, well inspection, septic inspection, mold inspection, swimming pool, radon testing, and more. Depending on the property, the market and your experience in home buying, you may want all but at the very least a comprehensive home inspection. 

The A-Pro Home Inspector in Yakima provides the following, and much more:  Yakima home inspectors in my area

Comprehensive 500-point inspections – the foundation to the rooftop
Easy to read, hardbound reports – delivered in 24 hours
A balanced assessment – uncover strengths as well as areas of concern “No Further Evaluation” guarantee hiring A-Pro means no follow-ups needed
“If We Don’t Report It, We repair it” guarantee*see terms.
Free foundation level survey at your request with every full inspection a $150 value
A-Pro delivers the best value in home inspection
Strong communication and thorough follow-up

How Much Do Home Inspections Cost? Costs for home inspections vary, depending on the size and type of property as well as the number, and types of services performed.  Expect to pay somewhere around $300 -$400 depending on the services needed, and the total square footage of the house. 

As-is Sales and What if the Seller Refuses to Make Repairs?  If you’re buying a house as-is, that means that the seller is not making any warranties about the condition of the property.  However, that does not mean the seller will not make the repair(s) or offer to reduce the selling price of the property. 

For example, a homebuyer hires a home inspector, and the inspector points out that a furnace is aging and that it should be replaced. On the other side, the seller says the furnace is only a few years old, and that the furnace is still in serviceable condition. This clash can go back and forth.

In any case, If the seller refuses to make the repairs you requested, you have a few options: 

Continue to negotiate or give them an ultimatum– if you don’t make the repairs to the furnace, I’ll cancel the agreement. Only do this if you are willing to walk away from the deal.
Accept the property, knowing that you make the repairs yourself.
Terminate the contract – you are within your rights to have a home inspection , and with the report, you also have rights the right to terminate the contract as long as it’s done within the timeline specified in the purchase agreement.
Renegotiate the purchase agreement.  In many cases, the buyer(s) can use the inspection to renegotiate the purchase price. If there are any undisclosed problems found during the inspection, then it is perfectly acceptable for the buyer to request that the seller repair the item(s), reduce the selling price or ask for money instead of completing the repairs.  Getting the seller to do the repairs is usually completely out of the buyer’s control.

Contact your A-Pro Home Inspector in Yakima for further details or pricing for all your inspection needs. Call NOW at 1-509-731-4992.

Let the Summer Sales Season Begin in Washington & Yakima

Warmest greetings from all of us at A-Pro Home Inspection! Hope the sun is shining in your corner of the country!

In our latest issue of From the Rafters, we’ve got news you can use to assist your clients: info about common vegetation issues, attic insulation, and garage inspections. Plus, we’ve included a few summer conversation-starters for your next open house. Eleven-year-old Frank Epperson accidentally invented a summer favorite that now sells by the billion. Know what it is? Read on to find out.

We look forward to serving you as the summer kicks into high gear! Just let us know how A-Pro can help.

Pat Perrault
A-Pro Home Inspection

Six Problems Home Inspectors Find with Vegetation

Home inspectors appreciate a nicely trimmed dogwood tree or a blooming pink azalea bush as much as the next person. But you won’t find notes like “spectacular tulips” and “stunning purple rhododendrons” in a home inspection report. While the quality of a property’s vegetation and landscaping may be a strong selling point to a potential homebuyer, such judgments are beyond the scope of a home inspection.

However, that doesn’t mean a home’s surrounding vegetation gets ignored. Often home inspectors, like those at A-Pro Home Inspection, will alert sellers and buyers to instances in which vegetation can lead to damage, inefficiency, and unsafe conditions. Here are six such cases:

Roof and Exterior Damage: When trees and bushes are too close to a home and have not been properly pruned, they can rub up against building materials, causing abrasions and more significant damage. Limbs overhanging a roof can drop leaves and seeds that clog gutters. If unchecked, this can lead to rainwater runoff that can stain siding and facilitate foundation problems. Snow-laden or wind-blown branches and limbs can break off and cause severe roof damage and potential bodily injury. Because they retain moisture, shrubs planted too close to a structure can speed up the deterioration of the exterior cladding and attract wood-destroying insects.

Air Conditioning: During a visual inspection of a home’s central air conditioning unit, the inspector may find vegetation restricting air flow through the coil—a condition that can prevent the system from operating at peak efficiency and cause costly failure of other components.

Sewer Lines: Most commonly, trees with aggressive root systems are literally at the root of a blocked and damaged sewer line. Even a slightly leaky sewer pipe will draw the attention of roots that are seeking moisture. The invasive roots of large nearby trees can enter a pipe through holes and gaps. Over time, they can tangle themselves into a twisted obstruction inside the line. This can result in a complete collapse of the sewer line. A professional video sewer scope inspection is recommended to reveal the extent of the problem.

Concrete and Asphalt Damage: Many times tree roots are the cause of cracking and heaving of concrete and asphalt. Inspectors will note damage to walkways, driveways, and other structures that can be attributed to root issues.

Brick Chimneys: While quaint in appearance, ivy climbing the walls of a chimney can pose serious concerns, especially if it penetrates mortar joints. This can weaken the chimney; allow in moisture and perpetuate the freeze-thaw cycle; cause the flue to break, which can lead to carbon monoxide leaking into the home and an increased chance of house fire; and spur mold growth.

Foundation: Small roots have been known to penetrate existing cracks in a foundation, worsening its condition. More alarming, trees planted too close to a home can change the condition of the soil. This situation can cause the foundation to move and crack. Further, plants near the home that require frequent watering can accelerate foundational moisture issues.

These are just some of the vegetation problems an A-Pro Home Inspector will be looking for during a complete 500-point, roof-to-foundation home inspection.

Don’t Insulate Yourself from Insulation Issues

A skilled home inspector knows that the condition of an attic can reveal a great about the overall status of a home, including problems with the roof, excessive moisture due to improper venting, termites, birds and bats, and rotting framework. One of the essential parts of an attic inspection is a checkup of the insulation. Insulation, which is designed to resist the flow of heat when correctly installed, plays a predominant role in keeping a home comfortable during the winter and summer while preventing utility bills from skyrocketing.

A-Pro’s inspectors have been in thousands of attics over the years, examining blown-in fiberglass or cellulose insulation, and rolled or pre-cut fiberglass batt (blanket) insulation. In addition to pointing out defects, the inspector will report on the type of insulation and its depth or thickness. Here are a few common insulation concerns:

Lack of Insulation: In climates with extreme temperatures, a lack of attic insulation may not effectively block the flow of heat. The home inspector may note that the structure could benefit from additional insulation (for example, adding a second layer of fiberglass batt insulation between floor joists). In some cases, the inspector may find that a double layer of insulation has been compressed to the size of one layer, reducing its effectiveness.

Improper Installation: The inspector will report on obvious problems such as insulation blocking attic vents. Also obvious are instances in which the contractor has installed batt insulation with its paper vapor barrier facing the wrong way. This flammable paper backing should face down on the floor and against walls. In other words, you should never be able to see the thick paper barrier once the insulation has been installed. If on the outside, the paper vapor retarder can trap humid attic air, leading to rot and mold.

Gaps: Gaps or disturbances in insulation (both large and small) and uneven insulation are often the results of poor installation. This situation can result in damaging moisture problems. Other areas of concern include having no insulation on the attic access hatch or door.

Compressed and Dirty Insulation: Like many things, attic insulation may not age well. Dirt, droppings, and flattening over time can turn once-fluffy and effective insulation into material that doesn’t do its job due to a lack of air spaces in the material. In such cases, the insulation’s R-value—its level of thermal resistance—can be drastically diminished. These conditions and recommendations for replacement will be reported by the home inspector.

Inspecting attic insulation is just one part of an A-Pro 500-point home inspection.

Real Estate Question Corner
Is a detached garage included in a complete home inspection?

Generally, outbuildings (sheds, for example) are not part of a foundation-to-roof home inspection. The exceptions to this rule are detached garages and carports. Regardless of whether the garage is attached or detached, your clients can expect a thorough inspection of this important structure, including its door, safety stops, automatic door opener, flooring, wall and ceiling materials, and electrical outlets. Inspections of a garage door can be dangerous, so there will be some cases in which the inspector will determine that testing it may be unsafe or cause damage to its components.

Among other trouble spots, a home inspector will check the garage for:

Proper slope of the concrete slab to direct liquid to a drain or toward the entry doorway
Weak or damaged springs that may cause the door to close unexpectedly
Properly installed emergency release handles
Automatic door opener functionality
Required gypsum board on walls and ceiling (bordering the building) to hold a fire; there are similar requirements for detached garages located less than three feet from the house
Cracks and holes in drywall
Fire-rated doors between garage and building, and between garage and crawlspace
Approved materials for plumbing and ducts penetrating the garage (for example, 26-gauge steel sheet metal for ductwork)
Ducts that having openings in the garage, which are prohibited
Fire and slipping hazards such as oil and grease residue
Safe elevation of gas-fired water heaters
Improper storage of combustible liquids
Truss defects like improper alterations and bearing points, undersized metal connectors, fasteners installed through drywall, and weak fasteners—all issues that could lead to roof collapse
Properly installed electrical receptacles (not installed in unsealed cut-out drywall, for example)
Openings from the garage directly to a sleeping room, which are forbidden
Adequate elevation of the floor in flood hazard areas
Required drywall to cover open spaces under garage stairs
Absence of required handrails on stairs from the garage to the home
Inadequate lighting

Inspecting a garage is just one part of an A-Pro 500-point home inspection.

Fun Summer Conversation-Starters

As the American women’s FIFA World Cup team battles for glory this summer, our thoughts turn to soccer and big blowouts. The American women won their first match 13-0 against an overmatched team from Thailand. Think that was a soul-crushing defeat? In a 2001 FIFA World Cup qualification match, Australia dominated American Samoa 31-0—a ridiculous score in the world of soccer, where even a 2-0 lead can prove insurmountable. On his way to victory, the Aussie’s Archie Thompson booted a world-record-tying 13 goals.
Summer is a great season to show off your listings. But imagine if you had to walk through all 175,856 square feet (four acres of floor space) of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, Washington—the largest house in the United States. The first floor alone has 250 rooms, including three kitchens, 34 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 63 fireplaces. The basement is equipped with a heated swimming pool, bowling alley, and gymnasium. It was built for George Washington Vanderbilt II, whose family made it big in steamboats, railroads, and other lucrative enterprises.
What would summer be without the Popsicle? A little less sweet and sticky, for sure. Did you know the frozen treat was invented accidentally by eleven-year-old Frank Epperson back in 1905? The pre-teen became a legend when he left a cup filled with water, powdered soda, and a stirring stick on his front porch. One cold San Francisco night later, the Popsicle was born. Today, two billion of what used to be called “The Epsicle” are sold annually.

A Final Thought: When your clients need home inspections this summer– or any season – give your local team at A-Pro a call. We’ve performed thousands of inspections from coast to coast since 1994.

Reach us in Washington or Yakima at 1-509-731-4992 or schedule an inspection online.

WHAT SHOULD A HOME INSPECTION INCLUDE?

Source: A-Pro® Home Inspection Service since 1994

A Home inspection can vary depending on the type of home you are considering. In any case, the home inspector should describe all systems and visually inspect each system and component to make sure it’s functioning correctly at the time of inspection. The following is a basic outline of the systems and components a home inspector should inspect. You can also use this as a buyer or seller checklist to help you evaluate properties you are considering selling or purchasing.

FOUNDATION: The foundation is the most critical element of a house as it carries the load of all other systems and components. A level foundation is necessary because if the foundation is not level the problems will only get worse compounding other defects over time. Therefore, the home inspector should perform a foundation level survey to make sure the foundation is within ordinarily acceptable tolerances for a home of its age and location.
STRUCTURE: A home’s fixed structures of wood, brick, or other material should be airtight to shield weather and others elements from penetrating the interior as well as hold up to gravity and movement of the earth. Structural components and the framing, should be inspected by the Home Inspector for proper installation and note if any modifications and or defects are visible.

ROOFING: A roof should protect a home from moisture intrusion caused by rain, snow and inclement weather. The home inspector should inspect the overall roof’s condition, the skylight, if applicable, and chimneys. The home inspector should also note the roof’s approximate age, inspect all the flashing, drainage systems (inspect for evidence of ponding water), buckled, cracked or damaged shingles as well as the gutter systems and downspouts.

EXTERIOR: The home inspector should inspect all walkways, patios, decks, balconies, driveways, siding, porches, steps, windows, and doors. A home inspector will also inspect the siding and trim to make sure it is keeping the home weatherproof. Excess moisture in a home can lead to mold and water damage. The lot drainage is also essential and should drain water away from the foundation.

FIREPLACES: The home inspector should inspect the fireplace(s) is properly installed and maintained. The home inspector should examine the vent and flue, and describe solid fuel burning appliances.

ELECTRICAL: The home inspector should check to make sure the electrical system is safe. He should inspect the condition of main service entrance wires, all service panels, breakers, fuses, and disconnects. Also inspect all outlets in each room to make sure they’re wired correctly and are functional.

HEATING: The inspector should inspect all of the home’s heating system(s), venting system, flues, and chimneys. The inspector should also note whether the size of the heating system(s) are adequate for the size of the house.

AIR CONDITIONING: The home inspector should inspect the home cooling system(s), the energy source, and inspect the central and through-wall system equipment. The age of the system(s) is essential as well since all systems have limited life-expectancy.

PLUMBING: The home inspector should inspect the home’s water supply and drainage systems, and fuel storage systems. The inspector will also inspect the water heater(s) to make sure they’re functioning properly as well as note the age and condition of the system(s). Drainage pumps and sump pumps should be inspected as well. Poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust, or corrosion can all be indicative of possible plumbing system problems.

INTERIORS: The home inspector should inspect, walls, ceilings, floors, Garage doors and garage door openers, steps, stairways, railings, countertops and cabinets. The interior home inspection can reveal plumbing leaks, moisture damage, insect damage, wood rot and much more.

VENTILATION/INSULATION: The home inspector should inspect for adequate insulation and ventilation in the attic and in unfinished areas such as basements and crawlspaces. Also, a home inspector should inspect for proper, insulation in walls wherever possible. Insulation should be appropriate for the areas climate.

since 1994

CALL NOW!

1-509-731-4992

**A Newsletter for Real Estate Agents from A-Pro Home Inspection of Yakima**

As usual, Old Man Winter arrived in a cold and cranky mood across much of the U.S. to start the new year. But we like to look at the bright side at A-Pro. Winter can still be a great time to sell homes, perform home inspections, and share knowledge that can help our businesses thrive. In our latest issue of From the Rafters, we’ve included a discussion on inspecting vent connectors, tips on bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and hot news on thermal imaging inspections. Plus, there are a few fun facts to share with your clients. Have you ever suffered from sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia? Read on to find out. As A-Pro celebrates our 25^thanniversary, we wish you all the best in the coming year. Enjoy the newsletter and let us know how we can be of service. Remember…spring isn’t far away! Pat Perrault CHI, PHI,

A-Pro Home Inspection Yakima

It’s Always Flue Season at A-Pro

As we enter the depths of winter, it seems a good time to talk about one of the most important but lesser-known aspects of a complete home inspection—the exhaust flue, also known as a flue vent connector. Usually made of single-wall steel or aluminum, the vent connector pipe runs from an appliance (e.g., a gas-fired furnace) to the chimney, helping to conduct combustion waste to the outside. The byproducts of combustion include carbon monoxide, lead, particulate matter, and sulfur and nitrogen oxides. These are produced in a home by gas- and oil-fired furnaces, boilers, and water heaters; wood stoves and fireplaces; portable propane, natural gas, and kerosene heaters; and other fuel-burning appliances. When not vented properly, these waste products—either appearing as smoke or invisible gas—can spill into the home and pose serious health hazards and even death. A certified home inspector will perform a visual inspection of a home’s venting system, including a thorough assessment of flue vent connectors. Common problems that will be noted in the home inspection report include:

Vent connectors that do not slope up to a chimney or outdoor vent.
Improper installation: The home inspector will indicate the presence of open seams, rusted holes, and other issues such as vent connectors that are too long to allow for exhaust gasses to easily exit the home.
Inadequate supports can lead to a pipe no longer maintaining its proper slope or causing condensation to form rust on the pipe. Installers are encouraged to carefully follow manufacturer guidelines in regard to installing vent connector supports.
Lack of sufficient connections or poorly installed connection screws can cause pipes to sag or leak. The inspector will examine the entirety of the connections to check for gaps, particularly where the pipe meets the furnace or chimney.
Pipes that are too close to or touching combustible materials such as insulation can present a fire hazard. (There should be a six-inch clearance, unless the installer has used a B-Vent, which requires one inch). Further, the inspector will point out if combustible material has been used as supports for the vent connector.
Other problems, such as a vent connector extending too far into the chimney, cannot be assessed visually and would require disassembly, which is not part of a typical home inspection. This circumstance, like a blocked flue, can result in deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

Be Fanatical About Exhaust Fan Maintenance

Here are a few tips from A-Pro regarding two often forgotten but valuable home maintenance appliances—bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. Share these ideas with your clients to help prevent potentially big problems down the road.

A properly functioning bathroom exhaust fan is a good way to remove steam and odors. When not removed, steam turns into condensation that can breed mold and mildew, warp wood trim, and cause drywall to decay. It is recommended to clean the bathroom exhaust fan at least once a year to keep it running efficiently.
When you’re taking hot showers, be sure to run the bathroom exhaust fan during and afterwards until all the steam has been removed.
The kitchen exhaust fan—located in the range hood, or on the wall or cabinet above the stove—vents steam produced from cooking to the outside, in addition to removing smoke when you let the brats sizzle too long. Kitchen exhaust fans should also be cleaned once a year.
Consult your user manuals for proper cleaning procedures for kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans.
For the sake of saving energy, don’t forget to turn off your exhaust fans.
Bathroom and kitchen windows are helpful but shouldn’t be used as a replacement for exhaust fans.
Make sure a checkup of the bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans is part of the home inspection (a visual and operational examination of both appliances is part of an A-Pro complete 500-point inspection).
Among other actions, the inspector will turn on and listen to the fan; make sure it exhausts to the outside (venting to the ceiling, attic or other room is a definite no); check to make sure all seals are tight and that it has been correctly installed; report on evidence of moisture or condensation associated with the fan; determine if the exhaust duct is correctly attached based on whether it is a flex or rigid type; ensure that outside dampers are working; and test the unit’s flow rate.

Winter—A Good Time for a Thermal Imaging Examination

When temperatures plummet and your furnace kicks on, do you run to put on your favorite fleece sweatshirt? Are wall surfaces cold to the touch? Do you get hit by a chilly draft when passing an upstairs window? Are you running the heating system less but still paying high utility bills? If you answered yes, then it’s time to consider a Thermal Imaging Home Inspection. These inspections take the guesswork out of understanding whether a home is sufficiently air tight or not. As a real estate agent, recommending a Thermal Imaging Home Inspection to your home-selling and home-buying clients is also a smart idea. Through use of thermography, a home inspector can pinpoint areas in a home that are experiencing heat loss or heat gain. During winter months, thermal imaging equipment can more easily detect if cold outside air is creeping into a home through walls, ceilings, the roof, poorly sealed windows and doors, chimneys, the attic, locations where there may be a lack of insulation, and other areas. Experts estimate that as much as 50% of a home’s energy consumption is due to these leaks. Similarly, summer thermal imaging assessments—particularly during the hottest months—can dramatically highlight spots where warm outside air is finding its way into an air-conditioned home, making life miserable for the homeowner, both in terms of physical discomfort and unnecessarily high cooling costs. Using an infrared camera, the home inspector can see a visual representation of heat differences at the finished surfaces of walls, floors, and ceilings. Thermal imaging can also identify hidden plumbing issues and high moisture areas that may be susceptible to mold, damage caused by wood destroying insects, overheating electrical wiring, and other dangerous and expensive problems. Armed with this information, the home-seller can address these issues before listing the home and present potential buyers with a Thermal Imaging report that provides concrete evidence that the home meets standards for air tightness. If the inspection finds areas that were deficient, the seller can take action and then show proof of how problem spots were fixed. For homebuyers, a Thermal Imaging Home Inspection can help them make a decision with confidence by enabling them to negotiate a fair price based on the findings or by requesting that the seller take care of air leakage concerns upfront. Thermal Imaging Home Inspections are not part of a complete 500-point A-Pro home inspection.

Call 24/7 to schedule a Yakima home inspection

Contact your local A-Pro Home Inspection team in Yakima at 1-509-731-4992 for more information.

Real Estate Agent Question Corner

What is a Foundation Level Survey and why is it important?

A Foundation Level Survey accurately documents floor variations in every room of the home. It is performed in addition to other foundation assessments, including checking for evidence of wall buckling and cracks, gaps between wall seams, sagging floors and warped ceilings, and misaligned doors and windows. This survey—a $150 value that comes free with a 500-point A-Pro inspection—helps identify areas of immediate concern and provides a recorded baseline to be compared against future foundation level surveys. When rechecked, the homeowners have a record of the original levels in the inspection report so they can determine if the home is settling and at what rate. How It’s Done: A-Pro inspectors use a special digital meter that documents floor elevation. Results are analyzed by the inspector and noted in an easy-to-understand table included in the home inspection report. What this Means to You: Your home-buying clients receive peace of mind knowing this important aspect of the home’s structure has been examined. For home-selling clients who have had an inspection performed before listing the home, details about the building’s structural integrity can make it more marketable and help it to sell faster. A foundation inspection and free foundation level survey are just part of an A-Pro 500-point home inspection.

Call 24/7 to schedule an Yakima home inspection

Contact your local A-Pro Home Inspection team in Yakima at 1-509-731-4992 for more information.

A-Pro, since 1994

Winter Fun Facts

There are some folks who take the phrase, “Let’s build a snowman!” to extremes. Case in point, the residents of Bethel, Maine. With help from surrounding communities, they piled up 13 million pounds of snow to make a snowwoman measuring 122 feet, one inch tall—only slightly shorter than the Statue of Liberty. Built over a month in February 2008, the towering creation (a Guinness Book of World Records champ) was adorned with truck tires for buttons, eyelashes made from eight pairs of skis, and 30-foot-tall spruce tree arms.
If you’re old enough to remember ABC’s Wide World of Sports, you probably became acquainted with barrel jumping, which was periodically featured on the show. As the name implies, it involves ice skaters jumping over barrels lined up side by side—a feat that would find a welcome place at today’s X-Games. The record for most barrels jumped belongs to Yvon Jolin of Canada, who successfully soared 29 feet, five inches over 18 barrels.
Brain freeze…it can happen to any of us when we gulp down a snow-cone or drink a frosty brew too fast. Scientifically, it’s known as sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia. It occurs when there is a rapid change in temperature at the artery where blood feeds your brain. Drinking a cold beverage too quickly doesn’t allow the mouth enough time to warm it properly. The result is a rapid onset headache caused by a dilation and contraction of associated arteries.

A Final Thought: When your clients need home inspections this winter– or any season – give your local team at A-Pro a call. We’ve performed thousands of inspections from coast to coast since 1994.

Call NOW 1-509-731-4992 for more information.

No Bones About It…Have Your Home’s Structure Checked Before You Buy

When it comes to home-shopping, it’s easy to be blinded by outside appearances: a sparkling paint job, a manicured lawn, a nostalgic white picket fence. Yes, nice touches with knockout curb appeal, but you know the old adage: All that glitters…

Just as a doctor will request an X-ray, so, too, should a home-buyer contract a certified inspector to examine the bones of the home to determine the strength and stability behind its pristine façade. Complete 500-point home inspections, like those done at A-Pro, include a visual assessment of the home’s skeleton, including the foundation and floor, wall, ceiling, and roof structures. Structural deficiencies are noted in the detailed inspection report.

Here are five structural issues commonly found by the certified inspectors at A-Pro in Yakima:

Roof Truss Problems: Truss failure may result in the roof not being able to withstand excessive loads of wind and snow. Your inspector may discover bracing problems (missing nails, the absence of necessary bracing, poor grade lumber, etc.); removed or cut web members; improperly installed trusses; torn out or buckled connector plates; cracked members; and “trust lift,” a condition caused by seasonally-induced expansion and contraction of lumber.

Sagging Ceiling: A sagging ceiling may indicate a sinking or shifting foundation, especially if it’s accompanied by foundation cracks, hard-to-open doors and windows, and tell-tale cracks in upper walls. Other possible causes may be an inadequate support structure (i.e., joists too far apart, missing beams, or frame too small to handle the load), water pooling atop the ceiling due to a leak, or termites feasting on load-bearing beams.

Sagging/Sloping Floors: Sagging or sloping wood floors can be an indication of a number of issues. These include a shifting or sinking foundation, rotting or termite-infested beams and joists, poorly executed structural cuts to make room for plumbing or wiring and ill-advised removal of supports for home renovation projects.

Foundation Cracks: The inspector will carefully examine the basement’s poured concrete or concrete block walls for cracks, which can be a sign of foundational problems depending on their location, type (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) and severity. While many cracks are harmless, some fissures can blossom into indicators that the home has serious foundation damage. This is particularly true of horizontal cracks that can form due to constant pressure against the sides of the walls. Most important, even small cracks will need to be carefully monitored to see if they are widening or spreading.

Drywall and Plaster Cracks: The majority of cracks in drywall and plaster—running vertically or horizontally along the drywall seam or at joints—pose only a cosmetic annoyance to the homeowner. Diagonal cracks are a different matter. If accompanied by other indicators of structural problems (foundation cracks, bowed walls, sagging roof, etc.), wall cracks add another layer of evidence that the problem may be more than cosmetic in nature. When the cracks appear over doorways, windows, or where walls meet ceilings, there is even great cause for concern.

A structural inspection is just one part of an A-Pro 500-point home inspection. To hire a certified local A-Pro home inspector in Yakima, call now 1-509-731-4992 .

Five Questions a Homebuyer, Seller or Realtor® Should Ask a Yakima Home Inspector before Hiring Them

Not all home inspectors are the same. So how can you be confident that you’re hiring the right one? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just checking on your home’s condition, here are five key questions to ask:

Are you certified and insured? CHI® (Certified Home Inspector) or PHI® (Professional Home Inspector) certifications are important, but they’re actually not required. These prestigious certifications will assure you that your inspector has undergone more than 500+ hours of education and advanced training, ensuring that your inspection is thorough and reliable. PHI certified inspectors take it a step further. They’re also required to carry Errors and Omissions Insurance coverage. So find out if your inspector has a PHI designation behind his name.

Are you ISHI® certified? Make sure your inspector is ISHI (International Society of Home Inspectors) certified. ISHI standards exceed all others in 14 vitally important ways. Here are some critical checkpoints only required for ISHI inspections: foundation, furnace heat exchanger, all accessible doors and windows, installed built-in appliances, all accessible outlets and more. Additionally, ISHI written reports include positive attributes of the home.

Do you inspect the foundation? Most don’t. In fact, if they say yes, be sure to ask them how they inspect it. They should use a foundation level device to take measurements throughout the house to determine the levelness of the foundation. These measurements are then recorded on a diagram – included on a CAD drawing – showing any uneven foundation settlement.

What if a potential problem is found during the inspection? This may be hard to believe, but if a potential problem is found during an inspection, most inspectors will tell you to call an electrician, roofer, or plumber for further evaluation. With A-Pro, you will NEVER need to call a third party, saving you time, money, and hassle with our “no further evaluation guarantee.”

What happens if you miss something during an inspection? With most inspectors, you will have to pay for repairs and replacements – even if the problem was missed during the inspection. Their evaluation is little more than an opinion. When you choose A-Pro, you receive this pledge: “If we don’t report it, we repair it™” at our own expense, for covered claims up to 120 days.

Have additional questions?

Don’t hesitate to call 1-509-731-4992 today for A-Pro® certified Yakima home inspectors.

Mention this post and get a $25.00 discount with a standard Yakima home inspection.

Are you moving to Mason –Mason FAQ’s

NO OTHER YAKIMA HOME INSPECTION SERVICE COMPANY PROTECTS YOU BETTER.

Since 1994, A-Pro® Home Inspection has helped thousands of clients make smarter, better and more informed decisions as they buy or sell a home. As one of the leading Yakima Home Inspection service companies, A-Pro not only offers you the best possible home inspection, service, and value, but also provides you with the peace of mind that your investment is protected through our iron-clad 120-day assurance guarantee.

To schedule an inspection today, call 1-509-731-4992.

WE’RE DIFFERENT…IN SUCH GOOD WAYS.

TOTAL INTEGRITY SINCE 1994

A-Pro has been a leader in home inspection for decades. Our mission is to deliver personalized service and advice, 100% transparency and integrity, and the best value for our clients.

FAIR & BALANCED REPORTS

A-Pro reports are hard-bound, beautiful, and full of photos! And unlike so many inspectors who pinpoint only negatives, we believe that a balanced approach — covering issues and strengths — leads to better decisions.

ULTIMATE PROTECTION

A-Pro’s comprehensive 500-point inspection covers everything from the foundation to the rooftop. No third-party inspections and no delays mean a better experience for buyers and sellers alike.

The Real Estate Agents choice

Here’s why more real estate agents recommend A-Pro home inspections.

Many real estate agents view a home inspection as a necessary evil that can delay or derail a sale.

At A-Pro, we believe home inspections should add value and promote the sale of a home, not hinder it. After all, every home has a price and all homes have positive attributes. Shouldn’t home inspection reports reflect the good as well as the bad?

7 Ways an A-Pro Yakima Home Inspection Promotes Home Sales:

Fair and Balanced Reporting

We believe home inspections should not only serve to point out problems. They should provide a fair and balanced evaluation of a home’s condition. That’s why A-Pro reports highlight a home’s positive attributes creating a well-rounded overall picture that’s useful to buyers and sellers alike.

No Required Further Evaluations, Guaranteed

For enhanced MLS listings, our guarantee goes a step beyond other Yakima home inspection companies. Our guarantees transfer protection to the buyer, ensuring that unreported issues and unexpected repairs come out of our pocket, not the buyer’s or seller’s. This is a cornerstone of A-Pro Home Inspection’s protection, and a unique and marketable selling point for Realtors and sellers.

Guaranteed Protection for Buyers and Sellers

For enhanced MLS listings, our guarantee goes a step beyond other Yakima home inspection companies. Our guarantees transfer protection to the buyer ensures that unreported issues and unexpected repairs come out of our pocket, not the buyers or sellers. This is a cornerstone of the A-Pro home inspection protection, and a unique and marketable selling point for REALTORS® and sellers.

Sell Homes Faster and for More Money

Evidence shows that pre-inspected listings sell faster and for more money than comparable homes that were not pre-inspected. With A-Pro’s Exclusive Certified Pre-Owned Home program, your listings actually stand out and attract the attention of more and more serious buyers.

Added Professionalism

A-Pro Yakima home inspection reports are clean, professional, and easy to understand. Having an A-Pro inspection report to hand to prospective buyers makes you look good and helps you recommend our inspection service with confidence.

More Accurate Pricing

A-Pro Yakima home inspection reports provide important valuation information that help real estate agents justify the selling price of the home to the seller. Generally, the closer a home is listed to its fair value, the faster it will sell!

Eliminates 11th-Hour Renegotiation

There’s nothing worse than an unexpected issue curtailing an otherwise smooth sale. A-Pro inspections and reports alert buyers of issues (and benefits) beforehand and can help eliminate roadblocks that delay or prevent a sale.

Are you looking for a Yakima home inspection service? Call us at 1-509-731-4992 to see how we can help you sell homes faster and for more money!

Home Inspection Yakima

Leaks:

Drainage/Water Pressure:

Toilet Troubles:

Exhaust Fan Problems:

Let the Summer Sales Season Begin in Washington & Yakima

Reach us in Washington or Yakima at 1-509-731-4992 or schedule an inspection online.

CALL NOW!

1-509-731-4992

It’s Always Flue Season at A-Pro

Be Fanatical About Exhaust Fan Maintenance

Winter—A Good Time for a Thermal Imaging Examination

Contact your local A-Pro Home Inspection team in Yakima at 1-509-731-4992 for more information.

Real Estate Agent Question Corner

What is a Foundation Level Survey and why is it important?

Contact your local A-Pro Home Inspection team in Yakima at 1-509-731-4992 for more information.

A-Pro, since 1994

Winter Fun Facts

Call NOW 1-509-731-4992 for more information.

No Bones About It…Have Your Home’s Structure Checked Before You Buy

Here are five structural issues commonly found by the certified inspectors at A-Pro in Yakima:

A structural inspection is just one part of an A-Pro 500-point home inspection. To hire a certified local A-Pro home inspector in Yakima, call now 1-509-731-4992 .

Five Questions a Homebuyer, Seller or Realtor® Should Ask a Yakima Home Inspector before Hiring Them

Not all home inspectors are the same. So how can you be confident that you’re hiring the right one? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just checking on your home’s condition, here are five key questions to ask:

Have additional questions?

Don’t hesitate to call 1-509-731-4992 today for A-Pro® certified Yakima home inspectors.

Mention this post and get a $25.00 discount with a standard Yakima home inspection.

Are you moving to Mason –Mason FAQ’s

NO OTHER YAKIMA HOME INSPECTION SERVICE COMPANY PROTECTS YOU BETTER.

To schedule an inspection today, call 1-509-731-4992.

WE’RE DIFFERENT…IN SUCH GOOD WAYS.

TOTAL INTEGRITY SINCE 1994

FAIR & BALANCED REPORTS

ULTIMATE PROTECTION

The Real Estate Agents choice

7 Ways an A-Pro Yakima Home Inspection Promotes Home Sales:

Fair and Balanced Reporting

No Required Further Evaluations, Guaranteed

Guaranteed Protection for Buyers and Sellers

Sell Homes Faster and for More Money

Added Professionalism

More Accurate Pricing

Eliminates 11th-Hour Renegotiation

Schedule an inspection or ask us anything!

Call now 1-509-731-4992 or fill out the form below for fast, friendly service from A-Pro.