Inspections

NOTE: Home Inspections may only be performed by Licensed* Home Inspectors who are subject to NY DOS regulations as specified in Title 19, part 197. 

Standards of Practice

A residential Home Inspection is a non-invasive, visual process - very little is disturbed during the inspection for several good reasons, not least of which is to avoid the possibility of making a small problem become larger or more urgent.  This is why licensed Home Inspectors don't disturb valves, move wiring or plumbing, or remove or relocate occupants' belongings, even when they stand between the inspector and a system that would normally be inspected.

To learn more about the requirements and limitations of a Home Inspection in NY, refer to this document: https://dos.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2024/05/homeinspectionprofessional.pdf

The "Code of Ethics" begins on page 10, and the "Standards of Practice" begin on page 12.

Of note: by both principal and statute, I have a "disinterested party" policy - I will not perform any of the work that might be prescribed during an inspection.  You can be confident that I will never try to create work where there should be none, or exaggerate or minimize any issues that are found.  My only interest is in giving my client a full understanding of the state of the property through an honest and thorough inspection.

I offer four types of inspections.  My rate schedule is similar for all, but the focus of each is a little different:

Homeowner   (walkthrough or comprehensive)

Focus is on maintenance items and issues that need to be addressed before becoming larger problems.  I aim to help you to get ahead of issues that could be expensive or inconvenient to fix as well as identifying systems and appliances that may be nearing the end of their useful life.  Consider this a "physical checkup" for your home.

Comprehensive inspections will include a report of maintenance and repair items that require attention including photos and suggested remedies.

Landlord   (walkthrough or comprehensive)

Focus is on wear and tear and functional issues that may have gone unreported by a tenant.  These inspections can be limited by factors such as restricted access, obstructions such as personal belongings, and time limitations imposed by residents.  

Comprehensive inspections will include a report of the condition of the residence containing photos and detailing necessary repairs and maintenance items.

Seller   (walkthrough or comprehensive)

Focus is on understanding in advance what a buyer's inspection will show, allowing a seller to proactively correct issues that could hold up a sale.   

Comprehensive inspections will include a thorough report covering the grounds, exterior, interior and major systems containing photos and highlighting areas that could be problematic for the sale.

Buyer   (comprehensive)

Focus is on identifying defects, both large and small, that may go otherwise unnoticed in order to provide a clear understanding of the total time and cost that may be associated with making the property ready for moving in.  I will provide a comprehensive report which covers the grounds, exterior, interior and all major systems containing photos, identifying repairs/modifications that may cost more than the contingency amount specified in the sale contract.  

* NY Department of State Home Inspector License # 16000149490