QUESTIONS

The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) suggests that you ask your potential home inspector the following ten questions. I have provided my answers below, and will gladly answer any additional questions you may have.

1. What does your inspection cover?

My inspections and inspection reports meet and exceed the requirements for both New York State and the American Society of Home Inspectors Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Detached buildings such as barns, garages, sheds, and workshops are not inspected as part of the typical home inspection. I am happy to discuss any part of your potential home inspection ahead of time with you.

2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?

I have been a full-time NYS licensed home inspector since 2005 and have performed thousands of home inspections since then. Prior to that, while employed by a municipal fire department for twenty years, I performed annual safety inspections of businesses, institutions, and residential multiple-dwellings.

3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?

Yes, I am specifically trained and licensed in residential inspection. I do not perform commercial inspections and have a deep background in home construction and inspecting homes.

4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?

No I do not perform any repairs, nor do I make any referrals for contractors. As a home inspector, I am in a unique position to create or steer work to others; therefore I feel it is a conflict of interest to make referrals of any kind. The NYS and ASHI Codes of Ethics both echo that sentiment.

5. How long will the inspection take?

It depends on the home and the client, but 2 to 2 1/2 hours is typical. Difficult homes take longer, and some clients ask more questions. The important thing to remember is that I will never rush you or the inspection. That time is both yours to ask questions and mine to perform a great inspection for you.

6. How much will it cost?

It depends on the size of the home. A word of caution...don't let a lowball price be the deciding factor for you. You should first and foremost trust that your inspector will do a good job for you. Hire him based on that most important factor.

7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?

I provide a very comprehensive and easy-to-understand report that includes digital pictures of the issues. The average length of the report is twenty five pages and you will get a nice binder to keep it in. You will also receive an excellent book on how to operate your home. I will email you the report within 24 hours; many times later that same evening.

8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?

Yes, I highly encourage you to attend the inspection. It is a learning experience without equal and will help you understand your home. If there are serious issues that I find, you will also get to see them first-hand with your attendance.

9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?

I am licensed as a home inspector by New York State (#16000008092) and a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI Certified Inspector #247970). I also am a member of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors and the International Code Council.

10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?

Yes absolutely. I continue to take continuing education courses and stay up-to-date on the very latest inspection techniques and employ the latest technology in the course of my inspections.

PHONE

(585) 343-7873

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