1) What kind of formal INSPECTION training have you had?

I am certified by the American Institute of Inspectors. This requires both classroom and field training and written and inspection testing.  These two memberships are nationally recognized professional associations and membership is earned form testing, validating experience, and training.

2) Are you a member of any inspector's trade associations?

I am a member of " American Institute of Inspectors", and   A.H.S.I., "American Society of Home Inspectors".

3) Can you make repairs if they are needed?

If they say "yes"-- BEWARE! They may have a vested interest in the outcome of their report. I don't do repairs and I don't make estimates. I have a strict Code of Ethics which forbids any actions that could be interpreted as a conflict of interest.

4) How long does your inspection take?

My structured inspection takes 1 1/2 to 4 hours to complete. I strictly adhere to the Standards of Practice outlined by AII and the extra investment of time assures you of not only the highest quality inspection but the same thorough inspection every time.

5) Who is responsible for any repairs that may be discovered or recommended on a home inspection report?

The information on the report is intended as a tool to allow the buyer to make an informed decision about buying the house. The items on an inspection report are not intended to be a "to do" list for the seller. Some items discovered may be ones which the seller is contractually responsible to repair per the purchase agreement. 

I always recommend the buyer refer to their purchase contract to determine what the seller has agreed to. This will help clarify if the seller is obligated to fix any of these items. Remember that your home inspector is not requiring these repairs to be completed by either party. He may make recommendations to fix a potential hazard or make a component of the house functional or serviceable, but his recommendations are not requirements.

6) Are you a licensed contractor?

I have been licensed by the state of California for over 12 years. I have built homes and remain active in restoring homes. This experience is invaluable when inspecting a home.

7) Do you go over the report in person with the buyer?

I prefer to walk the property with the buyer at the conclusion of the inspection to show them firsthand anything discovered during the inspection. I have found that this is the key to giving a buyer peace of mind about their property. When the buyer is out of the area, I go through the report with them over the phone page by page.

8) What kind of report do you use?

I have a computer generated, narrative report. I am able to create a report that is easy to understand and quite comprehensive. This type of report points out the strengths and weaknesses of the home.

9) When do I get the report?

I mail the report the very next business day. With out of area buyers, I can either fax the report to them or mail them a hard copy. Time is of the essence and quick delivery allows the transaction to go forward.

10) How much is your fee?

This is sometimes the first question asked and yet it tells the least about the inspector. It has never been my goal to be the cheapest inspector in town--only the best. I have always felt that the buyer deserves the highest value for his investment dollar. I set my fees according to the size, age and components of the home. My inspection fees generally range from $205 to $245.