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Frequently Asked Questions

What is involved in a structural inspection?

A structural inspection will include identification of major structural components of a residence or building, and explanation of structural and functional items that are defective, broken or not functional which need to be serviced. Items inspected include:

The inspector performs a visual inspection of a structure and does not disassemble or dismantle any part of the structure to make his assessment. The scope of this evaluation is dictated by guidelines provided by the State of Nevada . The inspector does not assign responsibility for damage or repairs and is prohibited from making repairs or giving estimates for repairs for any items or faults that are discovered in the course of an inspection.

What is involved in a pest inspection?

A pest inspection is performed for the purpose of identifying the presence of wood destroying organisms, such as termites, carpenter ants and rot, or conditions conducive to these organisms. The inspection is also a visual, non-invasive inspection that focuses exclusively on wood destroying pests or organisms and potential or actual damage to the structure.

Who orders an inspection?

Although structural inspections are generally requested by the buyer's agent for a home or commercial property sale, an inspection may also be ordered by a home owner and may also not be related to a sale. Some home owners request inspections in order to be aware of faults they would like to have repaired before a sale. Some buyers of new homes request an inspection as their new home warrantee nears the end of its term, in order to determine needed warranty repairs.

When do I need to order an inspection?

Since most structures will have at least a few defects that will need to be addressed, it is wise to schedule inspections well in advance of the expected closing date. Please schedule three to five days in advance.

What information do I need to have to order an inspection?

When ordering a structural or pest inspection, we will ask for the property address, buyer’s name, and the type of structure. You will also need to have escrow information available, including the escrow number, title officer and closing date, unless you plan to pay at the time of the inspection.

How much does an inspection cost?

Most residences are priced the same, about $300 for a structural inspection and $100 for a pest inspection, but large residences and commercial units will generally be higher.

Who should be present for an inspection?

While it is not necessary for anyone to be present at an inspection (except to unlock the building for the inspection), owners, buyers and agents are welcome to be at the inspection and will benefit by hearing the summary at the conclusion of the inspection.

How long does an inspection take?

While many factors can affect the time that an inspection will take to perform (including the size and condition of the house), most structural inspections are complete in an hour and fifteen minutes. Most pest inspections are completed in thirty to forty-five minutes.

When are reports delivered?

Our inspectors will generally give a brief summary of the items needing service in a structure immediately after the inspection. The full report will be generated and faxed or e-mailed the next business day. We mail the hard-copy of the report the next business day as well.

What do I do with the report?

Our Report Summary includes all of the items in the structure that were found to be in need of service. Our inspectors do not require any repairs be completed, nor does he determine who should be responsible for repairs, it is decided by the parties involved which repairs should be made and how. We always recommend that any repairs performed on a structure be performed by a licensed contractor or specialist, whose bond and license protect the consumer from incomplete or incompetent work.

Who is entitled to a copy of the report?

The inspection report is the property of whoever orders and pays for the report. Likewise, since a report is an assessment in a “moment in time,” the report is only valid for that buyer. Should a sale fall through, the new buyer would need to order a new inspection in order to have a valid report.

What is involved in a re-inspection?

In some cases, it is necessary to confirm the required repairs have been completed. Our company recommends that all repairs be completed by contractors, and when they are, the contractor’s receipt provides ample, if not better, evidence of completion than our re-inspection. However, we are available to re-inspect a property.

How should a seller prepare a home for inspection?

With a little advance planning, it is possible to eliminate many of the items that might arise during a structural inspection. Consider the following tips when helping your client prepare a home for sale: