• Prepare for your next home inspection
  • PREPARE FOR YOUR HOME INSPECTION
    
    Our goal is to ensure your home inspection is carried out without any delays or interruptions. There are a few things homeowners need to address prior to the home inspection in order to make this process as smooth as possible. This includes:
       - Access
       - Arrange and confirm entry to the property with all appropriate parties, including the Real Estate Agent, Seller and/or Builder    - Obstruction-Free and Accessible
       - Bathroom and Kitchen
       - Water heaters
       - Furnaces
       - Electrical panel
       - Attic and crawl spaces
       - Pets are confined if required
       - Store items away from sinks and bathtubs
       - Property Status
       - If the property is newly built ensure that it is in livable condition.
       - If it is a re-sale property ensure that it is not under major renovation or construction and that is in livable condition.
       - Additional Notes
       - We require at least 24 hours notification to cancel or reschedule your appointment
       - Your inspector will arrive on time and will begin inspection of the exterior property till you or the broker arrive
       - Please be aware that if conditions are dangerous your inspector will not be able to walk on the roof.
    
    Table of Contents
    
    1. Definitions and Scope
    2. Limitations, Exceptions & Exclusions
    3. Standards of Practice
    3.1. Roof
    3.2. Exterior
    3.3. Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace & Structure
    3.4. Heating
    3.5. Cooling
    3.6. Plumbing
    3.7. Electrical
    3.8. Fireplace
    3.9. Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
    3.10. Doors, Windows & Interior
    4. Glossary of Terms
    
    1. Definitions and Scope
    1.1. A general home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of the accessible areas of a residential property (as delineated below), performed for a fee, which is designed to identify defects within specific systems and components defined by these Standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. The scope of work may be modified by the Client and Inspector prior to the inspection process. The general home inspection is based on the observations made on the date of the inspection, and not a prediction of future conditions.
    The general home inspection will not reveal every issue that exists or ever could exist, but only those material defects observed on the date of the inspection.
    1.2. A material defect is a specific issue with a system or component of a residential property that may have a significant, adverse impact on the value of the property, or that poses an unreasonable risk to people. The fact that a system or component is near, at or beyond the end of its normal useful life is not, in itself, a material defect.
    1.3. A general home inspection report shall identify, in written format, defects within specific systems and components defined by these Standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. Inspection reports may include additional comments and recommendations.
    
    2. Limitations, Exceptions & Exclusions
    2.1. Limitations:
    An inspection is not technically exhaustive.
    An inspection will not identify concealed or latent defects.
    An inspection will not deal with aesthetic concerns or what could be deemed matters of taste, cosmetic defects, etc.
    An inspection will not determine the suitability of the property for any use.
    An inspection does not determine the market value of the property or its marketability.
    An inspection does not determine the insurability of the property.
    An inspection does not determine the advisability or inadvisability of the purchase of the inspected property.
    An inspection does not determine the life expectancy of the property or any components or systems therein.
    An inspection does not include items not permanently installed.
    These Standards of Practice apply only to properties with four or fewer residential units.
    
    2.2. Exclusions:
    I. The inspector is not required to determine:
    property boundary lines or encroachments.
    the condition of any component or system that is not readily accessible.
    the service life expectancy of any component or system.
    the size, capacity, BTU, performance or efficiency of any component or system.
    the cause or reason of any condition.
    the cause for the need of correction, repair or replacement of any system or component.
    future conditions.
    compliance with codes or regulations.
    the presence of evidence of rodents, birds, animals, insects, or other pests.
    the presence of mold, mildew or fungus.
    the presence of airborne hazards, including radon.
    the air quality.
    the existence of environmental hazards, including lead paint, asbestos or toxic drywall.
    the existence of electromagnetic fields.
    any hazardous waste conditions.
    any manufacturers' recalls or conformance with manufacturer installation, or any information included for consumer protection purposes.
    acoustical properties.
    correction, replacement or repair cost estimates.
    estimates of the cost to operate any given system.
    II. The inspector is not required to operate:
    any system that is shut down.
    any system that does not function properly.
    or evaluate low-voltage electrical systems such as, but not limited to:
    
    1. phone lines;
    2. cable lines;
    3. satellite dishes;
    4. antennae;
    5. lights; or
    6. remote controls.
    
    any system that does not turn on with the use of normal operating controls.
    any shut-off valves or manual stop valves.
    any electrical disconnect or over-current protection devices.
    any alarm systems.
    moisture meters, gas detectors or similar equipment.
    III. The inspector is not required to:
    move any personal items or other obstructions, such as, but not limited to: throw rugs, carpeting, wall coverings, furniture, ceiling tiles, window coverings, equipment, plants, ice, debris, snow, water, dirt, pets, or anything else that might restrict the visual inspection. dismantle, open or uncover any system or component.
    enter or access any area that may, in the opinion of the inspector, be unsafe.
    enter crawlspaces or other areas that may be unsafe or not readily accessible.
    inspect underground items, such as, but not limited to: lawn-irrigation systems, underground storage tanks or other indications of their presence, whether abandoned or actively used.
    do anything which may, in the inspector's opinion, be unsafe or dangerous to the inspector or others, or damage property, such as, but not limited to: walking on roof surfaces, climbing ladders, entering attic spaces, or negotiating with pets. inspect decorative items.
    inspect common elements or areas in multi-unit housing.
    inspect intercoms, speaker systems or security systems.
    offer guarantees or warranties.
    offer or perform any engineering services.
    offer or perform any trade or professional service other than general home inspection.
    research the history of the property, or report on its potential for alteration, modification, extendibility or suitability for a specific or proposed use for occupancy.
    determine the age of construction or installation of any system, structure or component of a building, or differentiate between original construction and subsequent additions, improvements, renovations or replacements. determine the insurability of a property.
    perform or offer Phase 1 or environmental audits.
    inspect any system or component that is not included in these Standards.
    
    3. Standards of Practice
    House Pro Home inspections adheres InterNACHI International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Its Standards of Practice are the strictest set of regulations in the industry and includes a Code of Ethics that promotes excellence and exemplary practice within the profession.
    
    3.1. Roof
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect from ground level or the eaves:
    the roof-covering materials;
    the gutters;
    the downspouts;
    the vents, flashing, skylights, chimney, and other roof penetrations; and
    the general structure of the roof from the readily accessible panels, doors or stairs.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    the type of roof-covering materials.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    
    observed indications of active roof leaks.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    walk on any roof surface.
    predict the service life expectancy.
    inspect underground downspout diverter drainage pipes.
    remove snow, ice, debris or other conditions that prohibit the observation of the roof surfaces.
    move insulation.
    inspect antennae, satellite dishes, lightning arresters, de-icing equipment, or similar attachments.
    walk on any roof areas that appear, in the opinion of the inspector, to be unsafe.
    walk on any roof areas if it might, in the opinion of the inspector, cause damage.
    perform a water test.
    warrant or certify the roof.
    confirm proper fastening or installation of any roof-covering material.
    
    3.2. Exterior
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    the exterior wall-covering materials, flashing and trim;
    all exterior doors;
    adjacent walkways and driveways;
    stairs, steps, stoops, stairways and ramps;
    porches, patios, decks, balconies and carports;
    railings, guards and handrails;
    the eaves, soffits and fascia;
    a representative number of windows; and
    vegetation, surface drainage, retaining walls and grading of the property, where they may adversely affect the structure due to moisture intrusion.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    
    the type of exterior wall-covering materials.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    
    any improper spacing between intermediate balusters, spindles and rails.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    inspect or operate screens, storm windows, shutters, awnings, fences, outbuildings, or exterior accent lighting.
    inspect items that are not visible or readily accessible from the ground, including window and door flashing.
    inspect or identify geological, geotechnical, hydrological or soil conditions.
    inspect recreational facilities or playground equipment.
    inspect seawalls, breakwalls or docks.
    inspect erosion-control or earth-stabilization measures.
    inspect for safety-type glass.
    inspect underground utilities.
    inspect underground items.
    inspect wells or springs.
    inspect solar, wind or geothermal systems.
    inspect swimming pools or spas.
    inspect wastewater treatment systems, septic systems or cesspools.
    inspect irrigation or sprinkler systems.
    inspect drainfields or dry wells.
    determine the integrity of multiple-pane window glazing or thermal window seals.
    
    3.3. Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace & Structure
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    the foundation;
    the basement;
    the crawlspace; and
    structural components.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    the type of foundation; and
    the location of the access to the under-floor space.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    observed indications of wood in contact with or near soil;
    observed indications of active water penetration;
    observed indications of possible foundation movement, such as sheetrock cracks, brick cracks, out-of-square door frames, and unlevel floors; and
    any observed cutting, notching and boring of framing members that may, in the inspector's opinion, present a structural or safety concern.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    enter any crawlspace that is not readily accessible or where entry could cause damage or pose a hazard to the inspector.
    move stored items or debris.
    operate sump pumps with inaccessible floats.
    identify the size, spacing, span or location or determine the adequacy of foundation bolting, bracing, joists, joist spans or support systems.
    provide any engineering or architectural service.
    report on the adequacy of any structural system or component.
    
    3.4. Heating
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    the heating system, using normal operating controls.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    the location of the thermostat for the heating system;
    the energy source; and
    the heating method.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    any heating system that did not operate; and
    if the heating system was deemed inaccessible.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    inspect or evaluate the interior of flues or chimneys, fire chambers, heat exchangers, combustion air systems, fresh-air intakes, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air filters, geothermal systems, or solar heating systems.
    inspect fuel tanks or underground or concealed fuel supply systems.
    determine the uniformity, temperature, flow, balance, distribution, size, capacity, BTU, or supply adequacy of the heating system.
    light or ignite pilot flames.
    activate heating, heat pump systems, or other heating systems when ambient temperatures or other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the equipment.
    override electronic thermostats.
    evaluate fuel quality.
    verify thermostat calibration, heat anticipation, or automatic setbacks, timers, programs or clocks.
    
    3.5. Cooling
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    the cooling system using normal operating controls.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    the location of the thermostat for the cooling system; and
    the cooling method.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    any cooling system that did not operate; and
    if the cooling system was deemed inaccessible.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    determine the uniformity, temperature, flow, balance, distribution, size, capacity, BTU, or supply adequacy of the cooling system.
    inspect portable window units, through-wall units, or electronic air filters.
    operate equipment or systems if the exterior temperature is below 65° Fahrenheit, or when other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the equipment.
    inspect or determine thermostat calibration, cooling anticipation, or automatic setbacks or clocks.
    examine electrical current, coolant fluids or gases, or coolant leakage.
    
    3.6. Plumbing
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    the main water supply shut-off valve;
    the main fuel supply shut-off valve;
    the water heating equipment, including the energy source, venting connections, temperature/pressure-relief (TPR) valves, Watts 210 valves, and seismic bracing;
    interior water supply, including all fixtures and faucets, by running the water;
    all toilets for proper operation by flushing;
    all sinks, tubs and showers for functional drainage;
    the drain, waste and vent system; and
    drainage sump pumps with accessible floats.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    whether the water supply is public or private based upon observed evidence;
    the location of the main water supply shut-off valve;
    the location of the main fuel supply shut-off valve;
    the location of any observed fuel-storage system; and
    the capacity of the water heating equipment, if labeled.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    deficiencies in the water supply by viewing the functional flow in two fixtures operated simultaneously;
    deficiencies in the installation of hot and cold water faucets;
    mechanical drain stops that were missing or did not operate if installed in sinks, lavatories and tubs; and
    toilets that were damaged, had loose connections to the floor, were leaking, or had tank components that did not operate.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    light or ignite pilot flames.
    measure the capacity, temperature, age, life expectancy or adequacy of the water heater.
    inspect the interior of flues or chimneys, combustion air systems, water softener or filtering systems, well pumps or tanks, safety or shut-off valves, floor drains, lawn sprinkler systems, or fire sprinkler systems.
    determine the exact flow rate, volume, pressure, temperature or adequacy of the water supply.
    determine the water quality, potability or reliability of the water supply or source.
    open sealed plumbing access panels.
    inspect clothes washing machines or their connections.
    operate any valve.
    test shower pans, tub and shower surrounds or enclosures for leakage or functional overflow protection.
    evaluate the compliance with conservation, energy or building standards, or the proper design or sizing of any water, waste or venting components, fixtures or piping.
    determine the effectiveness of anti-siphon, back-flow prevention or drain-stop devices.
    determine whether there are sufficient cleanouts for effective cleaning of drains.
    evaluate fuel storage tanks or supply systems.
    inspect wastewater treatment systems.
    inspect water treatment systems or water filters.
    inspect water storage tanks, pressure pumps, or bladder tanks.
    evaluate wait-time to obtain hot water at fixtures, or perform testing of any kind to water heater elements.
    evaluate or determine the adequacy of combustion air.
    test, operate, open or close: safety controls, manual stop valves, temperature/pressure-relief valves, control valves, or check valves.
    examine ancillary or auxiliary systems or components, such as, but not limited to, those related to solar water heating and hot water circulation.
    determine the existence or condition of polybutylene plumbing.
    
    3.7. Electrical
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    the service drop;
    the overhead service conductors and attachment point;
    the service head, gooseneck and drip loops;
    the service mast, service conduit and raceway;
    the electric meter and base;
    service-entrance conductors;
    the main service disconnect;
    panelboards and over-current protection devices (circuit breakers and fuses);
    service grounding and bonding;
    a representative number of switches, lighting fixtures and receptacles, including receptacles observed and deemed to be arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI)-protected using the AFCI test button, where possible;
    all ground-fault circuit interrupter receptacles and circuit breakers observed and deemed to be GFCIs using a GFCI tester, where possible; and
    smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    
    the main service disconnect's amperage rating, if labeled; and
    the type of wiring observed.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    
    deficiencies in the integrity of the service-entrance conductors’ insulation, drip loop, and vertical clearances from grade and roofs;
    any unused circuit-breaker panel opening that was not filled;
    the presence of solid conductor aluminum branch-circuit wiring, if readily visible;
    any tested receptacle in which power was not present, polarity was incorrect, the cover was not in place, the GFCI devices were not properly installed or did not operate properly, evidence of arcing or excessive heat, and where the receptacle was not grounded or was not secured to the wall; and
    the absence of smoke detectors.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    insert any tool, probe or device into the main panelboard, sub-panels, distribution panelboards, or electrical fixtures.
    operate electrical systems that are shut down.
    remove panelboard cabinet covers or dead fronts.
    operate or re-set over-current protection devices or overload devices.
    operate smoke or carbon-monoxide detectors.
    measure or determine the amperage or voltage of the main service equipment, if not visibly labeled.
    inspect the fire and alarm system or components.
    inspect the ancillary wiring or remote-control devices.
    activate any electrical systems or branch circuits that are not energized.
    inspect low-voltage systems, electrical de-icing tapes, swimming pool wiring, or any time-controlled devices.
    verify the service ground.
    inspect private or emergency electrical supply sources, including, but not limited to: generators, windmills, photovoltaic solar collectors, or battery or electrical storage facility.
    inspect spark or lightning arrestors.
    inspect or test de-icing equipment.
    conduct voltage-drop calculations.
    determine the accuracy of labeling.
    inspect exterior lighting.
    
    3.8. Fireplace
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    readily accessible and visible portions of the fireplaces and chimneys;
    lintels above the fireplace openings;
    damper doors by opening and closing them, if readily accessible and manually operable; and
    cleanout doors and frames.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    
    the type of fireplace;
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    
    evidence of joint separation, damage or deterioration of the hearth, hearth extension or chambers;
    manually operated dampers that did not open and close;
    the lack of a smoke detector in the same room as the fireplace;
    the lack of a carbon-monoxide detector in the same room as the fireplace; and
    cleanouts not made of metal, pre-cast cement, or other non-combustible material.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    inspect the flue or vent system.
    inspect the interior of chimneys or flues, fire doors or screens, seals or gaskets, or mantels.
    determine the need for a chimney sweep.
    operate gas fireplace inserts.
    light pilot flames.
    determine the appropriateness of any installation.
    inspect automatic fuel-fed devices.
    inspect combustion and/or make-up air devices.
    inspect heat-distribution assists, whether gravity-controlled or fan-assisted.
    ignite or extinguish fires.
    determine the adequacy of drafts or draft characteristics.
    move fireplace inserts, stoves or firebox contents.
    perform a smoke test.
    dismantle or remove any component.
    perform a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)-style inspection.
    perform a Phase I fireplace and chimney inspection.
    
    3.9. Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    insulation in unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and foundation areas;
    ventilation of unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and foundation areas; and
    mechanical exhaust systems in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry area.
    II. The inspector shall describe:
    the type of insulation observed; and
    the approximate average depth of insulation observed at the unfinished attic floor area or roof structure.
    III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    
    the general absence of insulation or ventilation in unfinished spaces.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    enter the attic or any unfinished spaces that are not readily accessible, or where entry could cause damage or, in the inspector's opinion, pose a safety hazard.
    move, touch or disturb insulation.
    move, touch or disturb vapor retarders.
    break or otherwise damage the surface finish or weather seal on or around access panels or covers.
    identify the composition or R-value of insulation material.
    activate thermostatically operated fans.
    determine the types of materials used in insulation or wrapping of pipes, ducts, jackets, boilers or wiring.
    determine the adequacy of ventilation.
    
    3.10. Doors, Windows & Interior
    
    I. The inspector shall inspect:
    a representative number of doors and windows by opening and closing them;
    floors, walls and ceilings;
    stairs, steps, landings, stairways and ramps;
    railings, guards and handrails; and
    garage vehicle doors and the operation of garage vehicle door openers, using normal operating controls.
    II. Inspector shall describe:
    
    a garage vehicle door as manually-operated or installed with a garage door opener.
    III. Inspector shall report as in need of correction:
    
    improper spacing between intermediate balusters, spindles and rails for steps, stairways, guards and railings;
    photo-electric safety sensors that did not operate properly; and
    any window that was obviously fogged or displayed other evidence of broken seals.
    IV. The inspector is not required to:
    inspect paint, wallpaper, window treatments or finish treatments.
    inspect floor coverings or carpeting.
    inspect central vacuum systems.
    inspect for safety glazing.
    inspect security systems or components.
    evaluate the fastening of islands, countertops, cabinets, sink tops or fixtures.
    move furniture, stored items, or any coverings, such as carpets or rugs, in order to inspect the concealed floor structure.
    move suspended-ceiling tiles.
    inspect or move any household appliances.
    inspect or operate equipment housed in the garage, except as otherwise noted.
    verify or certify the proper operation of any pressure-activated auto-reverse or related safety feature of a garage door.
    operate or evaluate any security bar release and opening mechanisms, whether interior or exterior, including their compliance with local, state or federal standards.
    operate any system, appliance or component that requires the use of special keys, codes, combinations or devices.
    operate or evaluate self-cleaning oven cycles, tilt guards/latches, or signal lights.
    inspect microwave ovens or test leakage from microwave ovens.
    operate or examine any sauna, steam-generating equipment, kiln, toaster, ice maker, coffee maker, can opener, bread warmer, blender, instant hot-water dispenser, or other small, ancillary appliances or devices.
    inspect elevators.
    inspect remote controls.
    inspect appliances.
    inspect items not permanently installed.
    discover firewall compromises.
    inspect pools, spas or fountains.
    determine the adequacy of whirlpool or spa jets, water force, or bubble effects.
    determine the structural integrity or leakage of pools or spas.
    
• Ethics
  • International Code of Ethics for Home Inspectors
    
    The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) promotes a high standard of professionalism, business ethics and inspection procedures. InterNACHI members subscribe to the following Code of Ethics in the course of their business.
    
    Duty to the Public
    The InterNACHI member shall abide by the Code of Ethics and substantially follow the InterNACHI Standards of Practice.
    The InterNACHI member shall not engage in any practices that could be damaging to the public or bring discredit to the home inspection industry.
    The InterNACHI member shall be fair, honest, impartial, and act in good faith in dealing with the public.
    The InterNACHI member shall not discriminate in any business activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, sexual orientation, or handicap, and shall comply with all federal, state and local laws concerning discrimination.
    The InterNACHI member shall be truthful regarding his/her services and qualifications.
    The InterNACHI member shall not:
    have any disclosed or undisclosed conflict of interest with the client;
    accept or offer any disclosed or undisclosed commissions, rebates, profits, or other benefit from real estate agents, brokers, or any third parties having financial interest in the sale of the property; or
    offer or provide any disclosed or undisclosed financial compensation directly or indirectly to any real estate agent, real estate broker, or real estate company for referrals or for inclusion on lists of preferred and/or affiliated inspectors or inspection companies.
    The InterNACHI member shall not release any information about the inspection or the client to a third party unless doing so is necessary to protect the safety of others, to comply with a law or statute, or both of the following conditions are met:
    the client has been made explicitly aware of what information will be released, to whom, and for what purpose, and;
    the client has provided explicit, prior written consent for the release of his/her information.
    The InterNACHI member shall always act in the interests of the client unless doing so violates a law, statute, or this Code of Ethics.
    The InterNACHI member shall use a written contract that specifies the services to be performed, limitations of services, and fees.
    The InterNACHI member shall comply with all government rules and licensing requirements of the jurisdiction where s/he conducts business.
    The InterNACHI member shall not perform or offer to perform, for an additional fee, any repairs or associated services to the structure for which the member or member's company has prepared a home inspection report for a period of 12 months. This provision shall not include services to components and/or systems that are not included in the InterNACHI Standards of Practice.
    Duty to Continue Education
    The InterNACHI member shall comply with InterNACHI's current Continuing Education requirements.
    The InterNACHI member shall pass InterNACHI's Online Inspector Exam once every calendar year.
    Duty to the Profession and to InterNACHI
    The InterNACHI member shall strive to improve the home inspection industry by sharing his/her lessons and/or experiences for the benefit of all. This does not preclude the member from copyrighting or marketing his/her expertise to other Inspectors or the public in any manner permitted by law.
    The InterNACHI member shall assist the InterNACHI leadership in disseminating and publicizing the benefits of InterNACHI membership.
    The InterNACHI member shall not engage in any act or practice that could be deemed damaging, seditious or destructive to InterNACHI, fellow InterNACHI members, InterNACHI employees, leadership or directors. Accusations of a member acting or deemed in violation of such rules shall trigger a review by the Ethics Committee for possible sanctions and/or expulsion from InterNACHI.
    The InterNACHI member shall abide by InterNACHI's current membership requirements.
    The InterNACHI member shall abide by InterNACHI's current message board rules.
• Sample Report
  • Please view sample report here

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