Corspect Advanced Home Inspections

What is Radon?

Radon is a tasteless, colorless, and odorless invisible gas formed in the Earth’s crust. It surrounds every one of us as a part of the air that we breath. Radon naturally occurs outdoors, but it is generally found at higher concentrations indoors because most houses are not built to be radon resistant. Due to modernization of how buildings are now constructed through insulation and windows that seal radon is now able to build to levels that are not healthy in our homes. Radon typically builds up in the lowest levels of homes and buildings. Due to air pressure differences in the home and the soil around the foundation and basement slab radon is drawn into the house through floor-wall joints, cracks in the foundation and other openings in the home/building structure.
Why is it important for homeowners to understand what radon is and why testing is important? Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Exposure to radon accounts for about 21,000 deaths from lung cancer each year according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). When radon gas is breathed in, it enters the lungs, exposing them to small amounts of radiation. This may damage the cells in the lining of the lungs and increase a person’s risk of lung cancer. This risk is elevated when an individual is exposed to radon gas in the home which they live.
Because radon gas cannot be seen or smelled, the only way to know whether it is a problem in your home is to test for it. Not every house has or will have elevated levels of radon, but one in 15 does, and there is no way to know if your home is affected without testing. There are two methods of testing available. You can obtain a DYI test kit to test your home. The accuracy of a DIY radon test is always uncertain because it is conducted by an amateur. These kits typically run you about $40 plus lab and mailing fees. These fees can run approximately $40-50. Professional testing is the best option for the most accurate results. Professional testing is performed by a trained and certified individual. Cost for professional testing can range from $150 to $250. It is highly recommended that homeowners hire professionals who do NOT also mitigate. Keep in mind that individuals who also mitigate may or may not charge to test but it is also in their best interest to then find high levels of radon gas and charge homeowners a high cost to mitigate the radon in their homes. This charge can run a homeowner anywhere from $900 to $1,000.

Home Inspection - Omaha and Lincoln and surrounding areas

Home Inspections – Why & Types Available

Corspect Advanced Home Inspection

When buying a home, the question you may be asking is “Why do I need a home inspection?” The answer is quite simple, to have the best possible evaluation of the home and the issues you may be taking on. Keep in mind that as the future home owner it is also your responsibility to understand that the home you are looking at has been dressed up by the seller to accentuate its best features and minimize its potential flaws. When you look at the home look beyond the furnishing that have been set in the home, beyond the aromas that are intentionally drifting through the it and beyond the aesthetic appeal. Instead, look under the sink, flush toilets, check appliances, look under rugs and area carpets – in other words unwrap the package being presented and look what is inside. Look critically at what you are wanting to buy. Make a list of concerns you have with the home as well as other items you want a home inspector to assess. Remember, you as the future home owner can address these issues before the sale if you have placed contingencies on your purchase contract. After you purchase the home those issues become yours.

Corspect Advanced Home Inspection

What a Home Inspection Entails

Home buyers should be aware of what the home inspection process entails. Generally, a home inspection will include a report on the home’s heating and cooling systems, electrical system, plumbing, walls, ceilings, flooring, foundation, roofing, drainage and basement. Typically, the home inspection will not include termites, chemicals and gasses (methane and/or asbestos), lead or rodents. What the home inspector may tell you is that there’s a good chance there may be a termite problem because of the area the home is located. It is then up to you to call a professional in that field to give a written analysis. Generally, home inspectors are not licensed to inspect for specific issues like pests, gasses, etc. If you are in a high-risk area, a specialized inspection to assess the house’s susceptibility to those risks would be advised to do as well.
Yes, the cost of home inspections can present a major factor for some home buyers that are already facing down payments, closing costs and loan fees. While you, as the future home buyer, may hope to save money on property inspections please keep in mind that the cost of these inspections will save you money in the long run. So what inspections are essential? Keep in mind that you should look for inspectors that will inspect the property ONLY. Do not look for inspectors who also mitigate or repair the damage as well. This creates an issue of credibility of the inspection report.

Lincoln and Omaha Home Inspectors

In urban and suburban areas:
1. Wood-destroying pest inspection
a. This includes a licensed pest inspector who can exam the property for pests, water damage, fungus and mold.
2. General home inspection
a. This includes the condition of the home’s heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, attic, insulation which is visible, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement and structural components. Keep in mind, no house is perfect. Also keep in mind that no home inspector has a crystal ball to investigate the future of your home. He/she will assess and review the house that day and give you an assessment on the condition of the home on the day of the inspection.

Optional Inspections:
1. Chimney inspection
a. These inspections are relatively inexpensive and sometimes include a cleaning of the chimney.
2. Roof inspections
a. If the home inspector raises an alarm about the condition off the roof, regardless of when the roof was applied, it is smart to get a   roof inspection. Roofing companies can analyze problems and provide free estimates. It is not the clients best interest, however, to suggest a roofing company analysis over an inspection by a qualified roof inspector. Remember, it is the roofing companies interest to sell you a roof.

Omaha and Lincoln Home Inspector

Inspections for country properties:
1. Septic system inspection
a. Septic system inspectors check the operation, calculate how recently the system has been pumped, determine whether the system requires pumping prior to sale and identify the boundaries of the leach-field. Keep in mind that leach fields cannot be built over, and they don’t make good vegetable gardens either!
2. Well inspection
     a. Inspectors provide information on the age, condition and depth of the well and the quality of the water being pumped.

     Optional inspections:
1. Boundary survey
a. A preliminary title report that includes a plat map, showing the boundaries and size of the lot. If the buyer wants boundaries marked and/or verified this should be considered. These inspections do take time and may significantly delay the close of escrow.
2. Soil and geological studies
a. These studies are crucial on hillsides and some flat areas where you may want to invest in a potential vineyard. Typically, this test is used to identify the stability of the home on the land it is positioned.

Lincoln and Omaha Home Inspector

Special concerns:
1. Electrical inspection
a. This inspection will provide information about electrical boxes which may be past their prime or recalled and need to be updated. If the home inspector raises an alarm about the box or wiring, further inspection by a licensed electrician can help you address questions about how to best address specific conditions of the home’s electrical system.
2. Foundation inspection
a. The home inspector will be able to tell you if the home’s foundation is sound or if there is scaling or cracking that warrants further inspection. If that is the case a structural or foundation engineer should assess the foundation issues that may exist.
3. Homeowners association (HOA) documents
a. If your home/condo/townhome has a HOA you will want to secure the HOA contract/agreement, which the seller is required to provide for buyers’ review. This document will include the governing documents, financials, covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) and more.
4. Historic overlay requirements
a. If your chosen home is in a local, state or nationally-recognized historic district, an additional layer of government oversight may be required for any exterior and sometimes interior changes.
5. HVAC system inspection
a. If the home inspector recommends further evaluation of the heating/air conditioning system a specialist should be brought in to test the system. These are also the specialists to contact if you want duct cleaning as well.
6. Landscape inspection
a. A landscape inspection would cover retaining walls, paths, stairways, terracing, patios and decks, outdoor kitchens, water features, fireplaces and fire pits, irrigation systems, fences, lighting, play structures/areas, lawns and trees. An arborist should be included in the inspection if the property is heavily treed or hosts environmentally protected species.
7. Lot size/boundaries
a. Your preliminary title report will provide the buyer with a plat map with identifiable boundaries. Fences are not always a reliable boundary marker. If you are concerned you may want to hire a surveyor to mark the exact property lines.
8. Permit history
a. You can request this information from the seller or from the city/county planning department.
9. Pool and spa
a. If your property has a pool or spa it should be inspected. Request a professional who specializes in installation and maintenance of pools and spas. These individuals will evaluate the estimated life of the pool and decking structures as well as the operating components of the pool/spa/heater/skimmer/etc.
10. Lead/asbestos/other health hazards testing
a. Homes built before bans on lead/asbestos/etc. may still contain some of the banned materials. Buyers have the right to have the home tested for these. Families with young children may be particularly concerned about the presence of lead.
b. Radon, mold and methane gas also requires specialized inspections. Radon is a hazard that exists in many parts of Nebraska as well as throughout the United States.
11. Sewer lateral inspection
a. Some cities and counties are requiring homeowners to upgrade aging sewer pipes (laterals) that runs from the main sewer line to each home. If this is the case with the home you are purchasing you will want to have that lateral looked at before you release inspection contingencies.
12. Square footage verification
a. County tax records generally state the square footage of both the home and the lot where the home stands. You may want those numbers verified. A property appraiser can measure and report the square footage.

Home Inspection - Omaha and Lincoln and surrounding areas

At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections we combine knowledge, experience and science to provide you with the highest level of inspection service. Corspect Advanced Home Inspections uses the latest technology to assess every detail of the homes systems. At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections we also have the unique ability, through Drone equipped HD Cameras, to inspect and photograph roof components. At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections it is our mission to make the home buying experience rewarding, informative and enjoyable for all. Contact Bob at Corspect Advanced Home Inspections to set up your home inspection.

What to Look for in a Home Inspector

What to Look for in a Home Inspector

Let’s begin with the statement, Every Home Should Be Inspected! As a future home buyer, you may be tempted to by-pass the home inspection to save yourself $300-$600. The reality is, that is a very small investment when you look at the overall picture. Consider the cost of a roof that needs to be replaced, a hot water heater that is not working properly, a furnace that does not properly function, issues with a sewage pipe, etc. In all reality you as the future home buyer may not catch many of the potential issues of the home you are looking at, the seller may not be aware of some of the issues or their initial inspector may have missed some items. As the future buyer it is always a wise investment to find the home inspector who will be thorough and give you the best picture of the home you are wanting to invest in. With that said remember, a cheap home inspector is not the best choice either. Your home purchase is an investment that will cost you thousands of dollars. A thorough and professional home inspection is what is necessary to help you make a sound decision on the purchase of the home.

So how do you know what home inspector will provide you with the best assessment? Your real-estate agent may suggest home inspectors. This is a good place to start. Take time to review websites, call potential inspectors and talk to them, check reviews, check with mortgage companies, family members and friends. With that said there are several considerations which you will want to make. Let’s begin with important questions to ask when looking for your home inspector.

1. What professional group do you belong to? Keep in mind that just because they belong to a professional group does not mean that they are quality inspectors. Ask further questions about:
a. Experience and Certifications. How long has the inspector been in business? How many inspections have they done? Is this their full-time job? What other background experience do they have that provides them with the knowledge that is necessary to do a quality inspection? A home inspector who has had a background in home building will have a better idea of what to look for and how to access the overall quality of the home.
b. What leading technology is your home inspection service using?

2. Ask what will be included in the home inspection. A typical home inspection will take 2 – 3 hours. The amount of time will depend upon the square footage of your home and the age of the home.

3. Ask what will NOT be included in the home inspection.  A solid roof inspection may not be possible if there is snow on the roof or if it is wet or raining. Also keep in mind that radon and mold inspection may be offered as an additional cost. Several areas in the United States, as well as Nebraska, have high radon levels. You owe it to the safety of your family to protect them if that is a possibility. Remember, your home inspector does not have a crystal ball that will look into the future and tell you what will happen to the water heater, dish washer, or any other major system of the home in six months, one year, or five years from now. Be sure you have also done your homework and know when the roof was replaced and what storms have been in the area the last few years; how old the major appliances and utilities of the home are (example water heater, furnace, air conditioner, etc.), what service and repair has been done to it and how long you can expect them to potentially last.

4. Ask what licenses and insurance they have. Keep in mind that not all states and cities require either.

5. What type of inspection report do they offer? Most home inspectors will provide a report within 24 hours. Be sure that the report they offer meets the requirements of your lender as well as your own needs. Look for a report that will:
a. Describe the facts of the inspection
b. Disclose the situation or problem of the home system
c. Direct or analyze potential recommendations

6. How will the report be reviewed with me, the home buyer? Be sure the home inspector will review the report with you so you have a complete picture of the various home systems that were inspected and what the potential issues are. This provides you the opportunity to also ask questions about what was reviewed and what the exact problem may be.

7. Can I attend the inspection? A refusal to allow you, the potential homeowner, to do so is a definite red flag.

As I stated earlier cost should not determine the inspector that you hire. Cost becomes a determining factor ONLY when you have found two inspectors who are both equally qualified and will provide you with the type of inspection you not only want but need. Remember the statement, you get what you pay for. Find the home inspector that will provide you with a complete evaluation of your potential home investment. A quality home inspection will give you the information you need to make a sound evaluation on whether to move forward on the purchase of your home or negotiate with the seller.

At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections we combine knowledge, experience and science to provide you with the highest level of inspection service. Corspect Advanced Home Inspections uses the latest technology to assess every detail of the homes systems. At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections we also have the unique ability, through Drone equipped HD Cameras, to inspect and photograph roof components. At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections it is our mission to make the home buying experience rewarding, informative and enjoyable for all. Contact Bob at Corspect Advanced Home Inspections to set up your home inspection.

Home Inspection Service

Home Inspection Omaha and Lincoln

Buying a home is a major financial commitment. A commitment that you want to make with confidence. A Home Inspector can assist you in identifying structural issues, aging systems, and every detail of the home’s condition. The inspection can help you predict problems you might have and if it is a top functioning home for you. An inspection can require the seller to fix what issues are uncovered in the inspection before you purchase the home if you make your purchase contract contingent on a satisfactory inspection. You may also uncover issues that you did not see that cause you to not purchase the home. As the home’s seller, an inspection can assist you in identifying problems before you place your home on the market.

What does the typical home inspection cover?
• Major Mechanical Systems
• Structural Integrity of the Home
• Cosmetic Features
• Heating and Cooling Systems
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Interior and Exterior
• Garages
• Baths
• Kitchen
o Cabinets, counters, sinks, faucets, garbage disposals, built-in appliances
• Insect Damage
• Chimney
• Foundation
• Slabs
• Basement and Crawl Spaces
• Attic Examination
• Roof Examination
• Additional Inspection may Include:
o Radon Inspection
o Mold
o Septic Systems
o Foundation
o Wood-destroying Insects/Organisms

Home Inspection Omaha and Lincoln

How long does the typical home inspection take?
• Inspection time will vary, depending upon the complexity of the home itself. Typically inspection should take two to four hours.
• A walk through of the home and what the inspection uncovered will follow.
• As the potential buyer you will receive the report of the inspection. This report can be expected in a timely manner – typically within 24 hours of the inspection.

What to look for in a Qualified Home Inspector.
• Look for a Home Inspector with a broad knowledge of a home’s systems and structures.
• Make sure your Home Inspector is objective, independent and does not have any affiliation with mitigation work or other repair services.
• Be sure your inspector is familiar with construction, building materials, homes of different ages and designs, local requirements and building codes.
• Select a Home Inspector who will deliver a completed report and will take time to review the report and inspection with you.

Contact Corspect Advanced Home Inspections of Omaha and Lincoln.  Corspect Advanced Home Inspections performs the most comprehensive home inspections in the industry.  With over 25 years in the residential building industry, Bob Corsini and the Corspect Team will provide the latest infrared diagnostic technology to evaluate every aspect of your home.  At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections we combine knowledge, experience and science to provide you with the highest level of inspection service.   At Corspect Advanced Home Inspections it is our mission to make the home buying experience rewarding, informative and enjoyable for all. Contact Bob at Corspect Advanced Home Inspections to set up your home inspection.

New Construction Needs a Home Inspection

Home Inspection Omaha and Lincoln

Yes, New Construction Needs a Home Inspection

You’ve decided to purchase a newly constructed home thinking that the city or local government will inspect it in order to issue necessary certificates of occupancy.  Keep in mind that although local government may do certain inspections, those inspections do not guarantee the quality of the work on the home or verify that everything has been built to the plan.  Typically speaking the new home inspection, which is given by local government, only checks for “minimum” standards.  When you have several hundreds of thousands of dollars invested in the purchase of this new home “minimum” standards is not what you want to see in the construction of that home.  Keep in mind:

  1. Building Codes are a Bare Minimum Standard
  2. Construction Varies Throughout the United States.  Requirements for building a home in Nebraska are not the same as California.  Wind, environmental issues, materials, techniques all contributes to the requirements for the area that you live in.
  3. Houses are very complex systems that have many components that are installed by many different contractors.  A fresh set of eyes that look at the home can reveal potential issues that you may not see from a simple walk through of the home.

Although this new home will not have the potential issues that an older home may have – mold, heating and cooling systems failing to work correctly due to age, old wiring, and a roof that needs replaced. It may have issues that may show up after you have moved in and become aware of as you live in the home – warped floors, leaky plumbing, drainage problems around the foundation, and a list of other issues that result in poor quality workmanship.  Building code inspections may have been missed, proper insulation may not have occurred, drywall may not have been properly installed, plumbing may not be functioning correctly, kitchen cook tops may not be properly installed, siding may not have been properly installed, etc.

New Home Inspection

Tops and bottoms of doors

New Home Inspection

Check for proper finishing of window edges

New Home Inspection

Cook tops not properly secured

New Home Inspection

Check for Sewer Pipe Leaks

The sale or construction contract on a new home allows you the right to an inspection.  Home Inspection costs of $500 is a small investment to make before you finalize the sale of your home.  Builders who have nothing to hide will have no issue with your desire to have a Home Inspection before the final signatures are placed on the purchase of your home.  The Home Inspector will make sure that the house and systems of the home are sound.  If you follow-up at the conclusion of the inspection the Home Inspector will walk through the home and teach you how to operate and maintain your new home.  Keep in mind that the Home Inspector has a trained eye to look for details that you may miss.

Contact Corspect Advanced Home Inspections of Omaha and Lincoln.  Corspect Advanced Home Inspections of Omaha and Lincoln performs the most comprehensive home inspections in the industry.  With over 25 years in the residential building industry, Bob Corsini and the Corspect Team will provide the latest infrared diagnostic technology to evaluate every aspect of your home.  Our mission at Corspect Advanced Home Inspections is to make the home buying experience rewarding, informative and enjoyable for all.