What to Expect From Your Home Inspection
MAY 2024
INTRODUCTION
A home inspection can be a mysterious thing if you've never had one. In fact, even if you've had a home inspected before, no two inspectors are alike. That means no two inspections are alike. Let's take a minute to dive into a ew of the top questions we hear, and see if we can take some of the mystery out of home inspections.
How long does it take?
The answer to this is as confusing as the question. It takes as long as it takes. Some homes are easy to inspect and take as little as three to four hours to complete. Some homes are more complex and take several hours to complete. A good rule of thumb for the average 2000 square foot home is to allow at least four to five hours for a good home inspection. Any inspector doing a home inspection faster than that is definitely missing things, and that's not what you want.
When do I get the inspection report?
There are many ways to generate an inspection report. Traditionally, the inspector would print the report and deliver it to the client within a few days. Then, PDF reports started to make their appearance, allowing the inspector to deliver the report via email, often the same or next day. With our industry leading report writing software Powered by SPECTORA, inspection reports are edited on the fly. This allows us to publish the report to our online web portal within minutes of completing the inspection in most cases.
What are some common defects?
The common defects found in older homes are different from the things we find in newer homes. Older homes commonly have older systems installed. HVAC systems, water heaters, appliances, and moving parts all have a life expectancy. The last thing you want is to have to pay $10,000 for a new HVAC a month after you move into your newly purchased home. That's why we pay particular attention to the age of these items and whether or not they are working properly at the time of inspection.
New construction homes are not without their common defects. Poor workmanship, incorrect building technique, ineffective weatherproofing, damaged cabinets and countertops, electrical faults, and more can be found in many new homes. Builder warranties may protect you from some of these defects, but they won't protect you from all of them. Especially if the damage is allowed missed for a time that could allow the builder to claim the damage was caused by you.
Why is a home inspection important for a buyer?
A home inspection is a careful look at the home through a set of experienced eyes. In fact, more than 80% of our inspections find defects serious enough to save our clients more money than the cost of the home inspection. Why would you not want to protect yourself from missing the details that could lead to potentially costly mistakes along the way?
Why is a home inspection important for a seller?
A pre-listing inspection is an excellent way to showcase a property you know to be in good condition. We recommend printing the pre-listing inspection and leaving it in a binder on the counter for when buyers tour the home. It's a great way to show the buyer you cared enough to find the hidden issues before they became a problem, and it could save you from costly delays that could kill your closing.
CONCLUSION
Home inspections are not all the same, and it's the same with home inspectors. Whether you are a buyer or seller, the bottom line is that you need a home inspector who is experienced and who will take the time it takes to ensure you get the best possible home inspection for your home. If you're looking for a quality home inspection, look no further than Red Cedar Professional Inspections.
Don't Be an April Fool! Get a Home Inspection!
APRIL 2024
INTRODUCTION
As we start getting into the peak home buying season, I start to hear more and more things about home inspections that just aren’t true. So, I decided to put a few of them in a list here, so you could make an informed decision on your own. I call this, “Five Home Inspection Myths.”
MYTH #1 – Home Inspections Cost More Than They’re Worth
Wow, this is the one I hear the most. A good home inspection isn’t cheap, but it is never a waste of money. In fact, we find that over 80% of our home inspections find hidden defects that often save the buyer more than the cost of the home inspection. These items can be brought to the negotiating table before closing, and this has the potential of saving the buyer thousands in unnecessary expenses. Even if we find very little wrong with the home, it’s still cheap peace of mind.
MYTH #2 – New Construction Homes Don’t Need Home Inspections
Even newly built homes have defects. Sure, the builder’s warranty will cover some, but it won’t cover everything. Chipped countertops, cracked windows, and damaged cabinets are all things that the builder’s warranty is unlikely to cover. Elevated radon is also something we find quite often, even in new build construction homes. It’s also something the builder’s warranty will not cover it if it’s found after closing.
MYTH #3 – An Appraisal Is the Same Thing as a Home Inspection
The appraiser is going to spend about 30 minutes at the home. During that time, he or she will measure the home and make sure certain key items are present. The appraiser will NOT test any of these items. However, we will spend four to six hours in the home, and we will test every accessible item. That means every accessible window, door, outlet, light switch, etc. will be checked. It’s a time consuming process, but it’s worth it for our clients.
MYTH #4 – A Home Inspector Can Pass or Fail a Home
We do not “pass” or “fail” the home. We simply visually inspect the home and point our defects that need to be addressed and/or corrected. Our home inspections give you the information you need to make an informed decision. Nothing is unfixable, so no home can “fail” an inspection.
MYTH #5 – All Home Inspectors Are The Same
Nope! Definitely not. While some home inspectors strive to meet the minimum standards set by national organizations like American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), Red Cedar Professional Inspections strives to exceed ASHI and InterNACHI standards by meeting The Red Cedar Standard®. It’s more than just a slogan. It’s the way we do every single home inspection, and it’s something ONLY Red Cedar Professional Inspections can offer. CLICK HERE to learn more.
CONCLUSION
There are certainly more home inspection myths out there, but these are the most common. The bottom line is this… Having a quality home inspection is one of the most important things you can do when buying a home. It can save you much more than the cost of the inspection, and it will always give you the peace of mind you need when making a decision as big as buying a new home. Red Cedar Professional Inspections is a leader in the home inspection industry. Call 615-988-0678 today and let us bring The Red Cedar Standard® to your next home inspection.
The Red Cedar Standard®
MARCH 2024
The Red Cedar Standard®
Introducing The Red Cedar Standard® -- the thing that sets Red Cedar Professional Inspections apart from the rest. A home inspection from Red Cedar Professional Inspections is a top-to-bottom look at the home, inside and out. We look at the roof, attic, structural components, and foundation, as well as the plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, and more.
But, isn’t that the same thing every other home inspection company offers?
No, it isn’t. Let’s talk about the differences.
The Minimum Standard vs The Red Cedar Standard®
Licensing and certifying authorities have determined the minimum standard for home inspections is to check a “representative number” of items in each room. Their definition of “representative number” is one. That means one outlet, one window, one door, and so on. Unlike home inspection services that just follow the minimum standard, we at Red Cedar Professional Inspections follow the Red Cedar Standard®. That means, instead of checking a “representative number” of items in a room, we check every single accessible item. Sure, it takes longer. An average sized home will take us 4-6 hours to inspect, but that’s OK. Our clients are like family. They deserve the Red Cedar Standard® every single time.
What’s Included with the Red Cedar Standard®?
It’s more than just a slogan. It’s an entire suite of services, coupled with the quality inspection our clients have come to expect from Red Cedar Professional Inspections every single time. Let’s take a look at the basic items included with the Red Cedar Standard®.
- Report Writing Software Powered By SPECTORA
Our same-day-delivered, clearly written and concise report is what really sets us apart from other home inspection companies. Our clients receive their home inspection report the same day, often within minutes of our completing the inspection. All of this is made possible by our use of the most advanced and feature packed report writing software in the industry. Why settle for boring PDF old reports? You deserve the best, and that’s what Red Cedar Professional Inspections delivers.
The inspection report is delivered online, and it includes the following features.
- Easy-to-Read, Clean Layout
- Web-Based and PDF Versions
- Mobile-Friendly
- HD Photos and Embedded Video
- Automated Summaries
- Automated Repair Request Builder
- Easy Online Quotes and Scheduling
Just click the Contact/Quote link in the menu, and see how easy it is! You're busy, so save the time it would take to call and schedule your appointment online in just a few easy steps. Your online quote and appointment are just seconds away!
- Follow-Up Service After the Inspection
A Red Cedar home inspection doesn’t end when the inspection report is delivered to the client. We offer complimentary follow-up after the inspection is complete, including...- Ready and willing to answer any questions the client may have about anything in the inspection report. This never expires. If a client has a question a year from now, we’re happy to talk through it. We never leave a client hanging.
- Ready and willing to talk the seller through any repairs or corrections recommended in the inspection report. Because, sometimes things get lost in the text message translation.
- Free re-inspection of any item flagged in the report, once that item has been corrected.* We call this our “Trust but Verify” policy. Because, while we trust the seller intends to repair the item correctly, we must always verify.
- Buy Back Guarantee
Finally, Red Cedar Professional Inspections offers a “Buy Back Guarantee.” If we miss a covered item during your home inspection (we’re human), InterNACHI® will buy your home. Additional terms and conditions apply.**
Optional Add-Ons
In addition to the above standard items, Red Cedar Professional Inspections offers several very important add-ons that continue to set us apart from the crowd. The following ancillary services are available for small additional fee.
- Radon Testing - Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that is found in soil. It is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. According to studies, up to 25% of homes in Tennessee (even those without basements) have high radon levels. We would love to help ensure your home and family is safe from radon exposure.
- Thermal Imaging - We offer thermal imaging of the home, just in case there’s something there that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Thermal imaging is like having a home inspector with X-ray vision. So, you could say Red Cedar Professional Inspections might even have super powers!
- Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) Inspection (Termite Letter) - You have enough on your mind. Let us set up the WDI inspection, so you don’t have to. Our third party contractor will perform the inspection and we’ll deliver the Termite Letter in a timely fashion.
- 120 Day Inspection Warranty - Plan term is 90 days from closing or 120 days from inspection. No age limit on the appliances covered under the warranty. Eligible mechanical and structural repairs are reimbursed up to $2250.00. Qualifying roof leakage repairs and mold remediation expenses in excess of $250 are reimbursed up to $1500 per property.***
But, I Found It Cheaper…
You might find a home inspection service that quotes lower prices than Red Cedar Professional Inspections. However, you won’t find the Red Cedar Standard® anywhere else. That is something only Red Cedar Professional Inspections provides. Remember… You get what you pay for.
Why Settle for Less Than the Red Cedar Standard®?
All of this and more is what makes up the Red Cedar Standard®, the exceptional service that you get with every home inspection, only at Red Cedar Professional Inspections. Why would you accept anything less?
*Free Re-Inspections: Restrictions apply. Limit one free re-inspection prior to close per address. Subsequent inspections incur a minimum $125 fee. Must be within a 60 mile radius of our home office in Clarksville, TN.
**For details, please visit www.nachi.org/buy-legal and read these binding legal terms carefully.
***Call Red Cedar Professional Inspections for details.
Unveiling the Invisible: Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections
FEBRUARY 2024
Introduction:
When it comes to purchasing a home, the adage "what you see is what you get" doesn't always apply. Hidden problems within a house can lead to costly repairs and unforeseen complications down the line. That's where thermal imaging comes into play, offering a high-tech solution that provides Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky homebuyers with an in-depth analysis of their potential new homes. Let's dive into how this technology is changing the game for home inspections.
The Invisible Made Visible
Thermal imaging, also known as infrared imaging, allows home inspectors to reveal what's lurking behind the walls of a property without the need for invasive probing. This non-contact tool translates heat into visible images, highlighting temperature differences that indicate a range of issues that could otherwise go undetected.
Detecting the Undetectable
Moisture and mold hide in plain sight, but thermal imaging cameras can spot the cooler temperatures associated with dampness, providing a clear picture of potential mold growth areas. This early detection is crucial for preventing structural damage and health issues related to mold exposure.
Energy Loss Identification
Drafts and poor insulation are energy thieves, silently driving up utility bills. Thermal imaging pinpoints these problem areas, showing homeowners exactly where to fortify their defenses against energy loss, ultimately leading to a more comfortable and cost-efficient living space.
Electrical Safety Checks
Overheating electrical components is a fire hazard waiting to happen. Thermal imaging quickly identifies these hot spots, allowing for timely repairs that ensure the safety of the home's residents and their belongings.
Unmasking Hidden Pests
Even the most elusive critters can't hide from thermal imaging. The technology detects the subtle heat signatures left by pests, aiding in discovering and eradicating infestations before they cause extensive damage.
A Clearer Picture for Homebuyers
Thermal imaging in home inspections is akin to providing Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky homebuyers with x-ray vision, offering a comprehensive view of a property's true condition. This advanced diagnostic tool is an invaluable asset during the home-buying process, empowering buyers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. By unveiling the invisible, thermal imaging ensures that homebuyers who choose Red Cedar Professional Inspections for their home inspection needs are investing in their futures with their eyes wide open.
Electrical Safety Doesn't Have To Be Shocking!
JANUARY 2024
Introduction:
The average home inspector meets the minimum standard expected by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) using a basic set of tools to inspect the electrical system in a home. The most important tool used is the three-light electrical receptacle tester. In this month's blog we'll discuss the three-light electrical receptacle tester used by most home inspectors and the SureTest 61-164-Circuit Analyzer used by Red Cedar Professional Inspections, and we'll tell you why the minimum standard isn't good enough for your home inspection.
Electrical Safety:
Electrical safety is a serious matter, especially when considering the purchase of a home. This is a major purchase that often exceeds the cost of every other purchase one can make. The last thing one needs is to worry about faulty wiring or defective equipment in the electrical system of that home. A home inspection can bring a lot of peace of mind in this regard. A quality home inspection by an InterNACHI Certified Home Inspector like Red Cedar Professional Inspections will include inspection of the electrical system, to include the service drop, service entrance conductors, cables and raceways, main disconnects, service grounding, interior components of service panels and subpanels, conductors, overcurrent protection, ground and arc fault circuit interrupters, and a "representative number" of installed lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles. All of this combined will give you a good idea of the condition of the electrical system and its components within the home.
Who Is At Risk:
Every home has an electrical system, so every home is at risk of having electrical system defects. Even new homes with new electrical systems installed by a licensed electrician need to be inspected, because electricians are human and humans make mistakes. Older homes also need to be inspected, since older homes are likely to have outdated electrical equipment and have had more opportunities for owner-installed issues to have occurred. Bottom line, no home sale should ever occur without a home inspection that includes a thorough inspection of the electrical system.
Proper wiring is critical to ensuring safety of the electrical system in your home. Shock hazards and electrical fires are mainly due to poor installation or failure of protective devices, such as GFCIs. Electrical equipment and high-tech devices are found everywhere in residential and commercial buildings. These systems require reliable power to operate and function properly to ensure their safety and longevity.
Electrical Testing Process - The Minimum Standard:
The minimum standard defined by ASHI includes an inspection of "a representative number of installed lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles" within each room of the home. A "representative number" according to ASHI is one. So, one outlet per room must be checked in order to meet the minimum standard. These outlets are tested using an electrical circuit tester (commonly referred to as a three-light tester), in order to evaluate the safety of an electrical outlet.
Why We Are Better - The Red Cedar Standard:
The Red Cedar Standard includes an inspection of every accessible installed lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles within each room of the home. That means every single accessible outlet per room will be checked in order to meet the Red Cedar Standard. These outlets are tested using a SureTest 61-164-Circuit Analyzer in order to evaluate the safety of electrical outlets. This far exceeds the minimum standard that is "good enough" for most other home inspectors.
The SureTest 61-164-Circuit Analyzer measures voltage drop under load, hot and neutral conductor impedances, tests GFCIs, identifies proper wiring in 3-wire receptacles, identifies false (bootleg) grounds, and much more. While this is a very expensive tool when compared to the cheap "three light tester" used by most inspectors, we feel your safety is well worth the investment. Again, this is where Red Cedar Professional Inspections far exceeds the minimum standard.
Conclusion:
Your home is probably the largest purchase you will every make. The electrical system in that home is not an area where you want to scrimp to save a few pennies. Protect your family and ensure your electrical system is safe. Let us inspect your home using the Red Cedar Standard! Call 615-988-0678 to schedule your home inspection today!
Understanding the Critical Need for Radon Inspection in Clarksville, TN
DECEMBER 2023
Introduction:
When it comes to ensuring the safety and integrity of your home in Clarksville, TN, a comprehensive home inspection is invaluable. However, one often overlooked but crucial aspect of this process is radon testing. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can pose significant health risks if present in high concentrations. In this blog, we’ll explore why adding a radon inspection to your home inspection in Clarksville, TN is not just a wise decision, but a necessary one.
The Invisible Threat of Radon:
Radon is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing. It originates from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water, and can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, and other openings. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer, right after smoking, highlighting the critical importance of testing for this gas.
Why Clarksville, TN is at Risk:
Geographical factors play a significant role in radon levels, and Clarksville’s location in Middle Tennessee is no exception. The region’s specific geological features can contribute to higher radon levels, making homes in Clarksville and the surrounding areas particularly susceptible. This underscores the importance of radon testing for every home, whether old or new, in this region.
The Implications for Homebuyers and Homeowners:
For homebuyers, understanding the radon levels in a potential home is crucial for making informed decisions. A home with high radon levels doesn't have to be a deal-breaker, but knowing about it before purchasing allows for necessary mitigation measures to be taken. For homeowners, regular radon testing is a proactive step in maintaining a safe living environment for their families.
Radon Testing Process:
At Red Cedar Professional Inspections, our radon testing process is thorough and reliable. We use advanced technology to measure radon levels over a specific period, providing accurate and detailed results. Our team of experts understands the local specifics of Clarksville and ensures that the testing is conducted under the right conditions for the most reliable results.
Mitigating Radon Risk:
If high levels of radon are detected, mitigation steps are essential. These can include sealing cracks in the foundation, improving ventilation, and installing radon reduction systems. Our team at Red Cedar Inspections not only identifies the problem but also guides homeowners through the mitigation process, ensuring their home is safe and radon-free.
Incorporating a radon inspection into your home inspection in Clarksville, TN is not just an additional step; it’s a necessary measure for the health and safety of you and your loved ones. At Red Cedar Professional Inspections, we’re committed to providing comprehensive inspection services that include this vital aspect. We believe in doing things right the first time, and ensuring your home is safe from radon is a key part of that commitment. For more information or to schedule a radon test, contact us today. Let us help you ensure that your home is a safe haven for you and your family.
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