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4 Interesting Details About Thermal Imaging Equipment


Interesting-Details-About-Thermal-Imaging-EquipmentYou may have heard of thermal imaging equipment and its use for home inspections, but did you know that the specifics and details of the technology are incredibly interesting? Be sure to read on, it might amaze you.

So before you schedule the pros in San Diego to conduct a thermal imaging inspection of your home, read on to learn more about its use, benefits, and applicability.

What should I know about thermal imaging equipment?

Thermal imaging equipment is a highly-utilized type of equipment that many fields of science rely on for measurements, analysis, and inspection. One of its main benefits is its relative ease of use which makes it available for home inspection utilization.

Here are some notable details regarding this useful technology:

1. The colors of a thermal camera

Rather than a normal image, the thermal camera shows us areas of the house in several different colors. Of course, all these colors have their meanings, but the main gist is that lighter and brighter colors, like red, yellow, and white are used to indicate warmer areas of the house, while blue and darker colors all the way to black tend to indicate colder and darker spots.

By knowing this simple detail, we can deduce whether a certain area of the house is warmer or colder than usual.

2. The thermal camera can’t see through walls

There is a common misconception that thermal cameras can “see” through walls, meaning they can detect heat signals from the opposite side of the wall.

The origin of this misconception probably lies in various Hollywood action films. However, the reality is much more boring than that. Thermal cameras, unfortunately, cannot “see through” walls. They may see the internal heat of the walls, but for the most part, you won’t be able to pick up heat signals from the other side.

3. You can(‘t) hide from a thermal camera

Another common misconception that originates from Hollywood is that we would be able to hide from thermal cameras if we increase the temperature of the room in order to “fool” the camera or use something like mud (looking at you, Arnie!) to hide our body heat. However, in reality, that is not the case because cameras can still pick up our body heat just fine.

This is because thermal cameras do not rely on visible light to pick up heat sources but on infrared light. The only true way of hiding from a thermal camera would be to hide behind glass because thermal cameras can’t see through it. This is due to glass blocking out infrared light and, in general, being a reflective material.

4. Thermal cameras can be used in a variety of situations

Thermal imaging equipment can be applied in a huge variety of situations. Home inspections, police work, and even healthcare, the possibilities are almost endless.

As already mentioned, home inspectors like to use thermal cameras to detect various thermal anomalies around the house, while the police and the Army use thermal imaging equipment to get around darker areas and look for suspects (or the enemy in the case of the Army). Healthcare workers can use thermal equipment to detect various tissue damage and fever in humans and animals alike.

Where in San Diego can I book a quality thermal imaging inspection company?

Whether your house is situated near the San Diego Zoo or elsewhere in the area, we’re here for you. We are The Inspectors Company, a professional home inspection company that offers high-quality services to all residents of the San Diego area! Our inspection services are carried out by licensed, experienced, and reliable home inspectors that will leave no stone unturned, so if there are any problems within your home, we will find them and let you know.

Call us today and book an inspection for your home so that you are made aware of any potential issues that might need taking care of.

Guide to Thermal Imaging: All You Need to Know


Guide-to-Thermal-ImagingIf you’re wondering what thermal imaging is, you’re not alone. It’s a technology that allows you to see thermal radiation. This means that you can see things that are normally invisible to the human eye, such as heat loss and energy leaks.

Thermal imaging can be used for a variety of purposes, including an inspection of your home in San Diego, commercial inspections, and even medical diagnoses. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the main characteristics of thermal imaging and all that it entails. Read on!

What is thermal imaging?

Thermal imaging is the process of using thermal or infrared cameras in order to detect various thermal anomalies around the house. This is usually done by a home inspector who brings the camera and then scans the house. The camera detects surface temperatures so the inspector can deduce whether a certain area of the house releases or stores more energy than usual. The camera screen shows an image in various colors, with light and bright colors, such as white, red, and yellow used for warmer areas, while darker colors like blue and black are used for colder and darker areas.

What does thermal imaging detect during a home inspection?

As already mentioned, thermal imaging detects various thermal anomalies around the house. It’s also used during a home inspection to detect other problems as well.

For example, it can show us if there is a moisture problem in certain, darker areas of the house, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and air ducts. These places usually have a stricter airflow, so they become a nesting ground for mold. A thermal camera can help us detect these spots. And speaking of nesting grounds, thermal cameras can also detect various pests and critters that take refuge in the house by showing their body temperature.

Furthermore, thermal imaging can detect electrical anomalies in the wiring system of the house. At certain key connection points, the temperature will rise due to the erosion of the wires, and if left unattended, this can lead to accidents, including a house fire.

There are many more potential problems that a thermal camera can detect, such as damage in the structural integrity of the house, which can lead to leaks or energy loss from the house. These usually tend to happen at areas like doors and entryways, but can also appear on floors, ceilings and even roofs.

Why is thermal imaging important?

There are many benefits to performing a thermal imaging inspection of the house because once the inspector discovers all the potential problematic spots, it becomes a lot easier to conduct the necessary repairs. As mentioned before, leaving the electrical wiring system to further erode may lead to a fire, while having unattended mold makes for quite a health hazard.

The same applies to all the various pests and critters, as they can either be disease carriers or wood-eating termites. Furthermore, having an energy-efficient home not only decreases the utility bills, as more energy is kept inside the house. It also raises the price and value of the property should you ever decide to sell it in the future.

What-is-thermal-imagingWhere can I find a reputable thermal imaging inspection in San Diego?

No matter if you live near Balboa Park or elsewhere in the San Diego area, if you’re looking to hire the best inspectors to conduct thermal imaging of your home, then look no further! Here at The Inspectors Company, we offer the most reliable and top-quality home thermal imaging services in and around San Diego.

Our experienced inspectors will make sure that your home is properly and thoroughly inspected and that you’re made aware of any potential issues in your home that might need addressing. So there’s no reason to wait, contact us today and ensure a safe and healthy home for yourself and your family.

8 Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Roof


Your roof might look strong and sturdy, but it’s always prone to damage, which lessens its lifespan and can lead to regular repairs or even a need for a roof reinstallation. This is why we advise to have your roof regularly inspected.

If you’re even in doubt if your San Diego home’s roof is healthy, you should call a professional roof inspection service to check up on your roof. In the meantime, you can prolong the life of your roof by following our tips below.

How do I prolong the life of my roof?

Where in San Diego can I get professional roof inspection serviceThere’s a couple of things homeowners should make sure to do in order to prolong their roof’s lifespan. We’ll provide you with some helpful tips that help prevent common roofing problems in order to make sure your roof remains healthy for a long time.

1. Make sure your roof is properly installed and maintained

One of the core things that extend a roof’s lifespan is its proper installation and maintenance. Whether you’re setting up your roof or regularly maintaining it, make sure that you hire a company that has certified professionals that provide full insurance. A poorly installed roof is a lot more prone to damage than a properly installed one.

2. Clean the gutters

Another good thing to do is to check up on your gutters regularly and make sure that they are clean. If you see any debris present in your gutters you should clean it as soon as possible, as debris and water buildup can wear down the gutters and the roof, and lead to water leaking down through your walls.

3. Check for damaged or missing shingles

Shingles are crucial for the integrity of not only your roof, but the rest of your house as well. Damaged or missing shingles can introduce water into your attic or lead to insects and critters finding their new home in your roof, which can cause further roof damage down the line if left unchecked.

4. Check for loose or missing nails

Over time, nails on your roof can turn loose or even fall out entirely. This further makes it possible for water to come in through the nail holes and cause leaks in the attic and moss buildup. If you see any loose nails, simply get a hammer and hammer them down, and replace any that are missing.

5. Clean the roof from moss and other debris

Moss, branches, small rocks and other debris are not uncommon to be found on the roof. They might seem harmless at first, but if left unchecked they can lead to roof damage as they get blown around by the wind, for example. Make sure to scrape any moss present and remove any other debris present to ensure your roof doesn’t get worn down over time.

6. Trim trees next to your roof

If you have any trees next to your house that are tall enough to reach the roof, make sure to trim their branches regularly. Falling branches can also cause major roof damage, especially if the branches are thick, and the tree itself can be used by animals and insects to find their way onto your roof.

Furthermore, wind can easily sway the branches towards your roof which can lead to the branches scraping the roof and potentially damaging it. 

7. Insulate your attic

Proper attic insulation will not only help lower your electricity bills, but it will also help extend the life of your roof. Especially during summer, your shingles get heated by the sunlight, which can wear them down significantly over time, by making them brittle and thus prone to breaking and falling off. By insulating your attic you’ll help your shingles last a lot longer.

8. Make sure to schedule regular roofing inspections

Even though it’s incredibly important to have your roof regularly inspected, it’s common for homeowners to forget to book regular roof assessment. It’s generally advised to have a checkup at least once a year, so that you’re sure that your roof is always in good shape and to get ahead of any potential roofing issues.

Where in San Diego can I get professional roof inspection service?

How do I prolong the life of my roof

In case you live in San Diego or the surrounding areas, and you would want to have your roof checked, we’ve got you covered. Here at The Inspectors Company, we take pride in our professional, InterNACHI certified roofing inspectors that are specialized in identifying all types of roofing issues. 

Our highly-trained inspectors also specialize in sewer and mold examination, thermal and infrared imaging, and more. Call us today, and have your roof examined by our pros so that you can visit Balboa Park for some care-free relaxation.

 

5 Common Roofing Problems to Look Out For


Every homeowner is bound to have a roofing problem at least once in their lives. Given how exposed roofs are to weather, insects and other potential threats, it’s usually a matter of time. Furthermore, roofing problems can potentially lead to huge damage to the rest of your house.

That’s why it’s usually a good idea to contact experienced roofing inspectors so that they can accurately identify any potential issues. Luckily, there’s no shortage of roofing inspection companies in San Diego, so you always have that option.

If you’d prefer to inspect your roof yourself, though, you should get familiar with the most common roofing problems, so that you know what to look out for. If you don’t know what the most common problems are, we’ve got you covered. 

What are common roofing problems?Where to find reputable roofing inspection companies in San Diego

Generally, every homeowner should look out for any roof irregularities. Given how exposed the roof is, it can fall victim to a number of problems. Here you’ll learn about five of the most common roofing problems, as they are often the most frequent ones and the easiest to spot, and a sign that you might need a professional roof assessment.

1. Poor installation

In order for your roof to be and remain healthy, it’s important to set it up properly from the very start. That’s why it’s crucial to hire professionals when setting it up, as this way you will make sure that your roof is properly installed and thus less likely to suffer from other problems that can potentially develop down the line.

2. Roof leaks

Roof leaks are one of the most common roofing problems. If you notice water running down your facade and walls or if it’s accumulating in your attic, your roof is probably leaking. This can be a result of a couple of things, usually it’s due to improper installation, gutter problems or shingle damage. 

Leaks can lead to mold, which can cause health issues, so it’s vital that they are addressed promptly.

3. Clogged or broken gutters

The gutters on your roof can get clogged due to a buildup of leaves, branches and other debris, which can cause water to run down both the outside and inside of your walls, and this can lead to serious wall damage. It’s advised to regularly inspect your gutters for debris buildup.

4. Damaged or missing shingles

Any kind of hole on a roof is a bad thing. This is especially true if there’s a hole in your shingles. Damaged or missing shingles can lead to leaks, insect, or critter infestation. It’s best that you make sure that you don’t have any shingles missing on your roof and that they aren’t damaged.

5. Irregular and poor maintenance

It’s generally advised to have regular roofing examination and maintenance by professionals, at least once a year. Neglecting your roof is bad and potentially dangerous, as a defective roof can lead to further damage.

Where to find reputable roofing inspection companies in San Diego?

What are common roofing problems

If your San Diego area home is in need of a roofing checkup, we’re here for you. Our certified inspectors will make sure that your roof is inspected in detail so that you don’t need to worry or inspect it yourself. After all, that time can be much better spent visiting the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Besides regular roof checkups, we also offer mobile home assessment services, sewer line checkup services, thermal imaging, and more. So there’s no reason to wait – book us now and get your roof examined by the pros.

5 Benefits of Hiring Pros for a Roof Inspection


The roof is one of the most integral parts of a house, as it shields it from the elements and provides proper cover and shelter for living. A damaged roof may not only lead to further damage to your house, but it can also greatly lower your home value, should you consider selling it. This is why it’s very important to have your roof inspected regularly.

If you’re unsure how to do it yourself and you require a professional roof inspection service company in San Diego, this article can help you get your roof properly inspected.

Why should you get a professional roof inspection?

Even though you could inspect your roof by yourself, hiring professionals is the best thing to do. Roof inspection is not a simple thing, and apart from safety concerns, you need to know what to look out for up there. Experienced roof inspectors can:

1. Accurately assess roof damage

A thorough roof inspection is needed in order to assess damages to your roof and get it ready for repairs if required. This will greatly reduce the time needed for a repair as well as get you informed regarding repair costs depending on the damage.

2. Detect leaks

Water leaks can be very hard to spot and can turn into a health hazard. When the water reaches your walls, it may not only cause structural damage to your house, but also lead to mold which can irritate your eyes, nose and skin, as well as induce heavy coughing. Quick and professional leak detection is key for preventing these issues from occurring.

3 Properly set up and repair drainage

Dust and various debris can quickly and easily accumulate in your roof’s drainage system and cause it to clog. This can result in leaks and water overflow which will cause damage to your facade and inner walls. By hiring professional roof inspectors, you will make sure that the roof’s drainage is clear and working properly.

4. Help with roof warranty and insurance claims

Most roof warranties require regular roof inspection (usually once a year, although some may require an inspection every two years). Therefore, for your warranty to not be declared void, you need to make sure that your roof gets regularly inspected. Some warranties also state that improper and unauthorized roof maintenance can lead to it becoming void, so hiring professionals to do it will ensure that your warranty terms are being followed.

5. Raise your home value

The importance of a healthy roof can’t be stressed enough. Having your roof regularly inspected and maintained will increase your home value since it’s one of the most valued things people care about when looking to buy a house. You will be amazed at how much of an impact a well-maintained and regularly inspected roof can have on the value of your property.

Where-can-I-find-a-professional-roof-inspection-service-in-San-DiegoWhere can I find a professional roof inspection service in San Diego, CA?

In case you don’t know how to properly inspect your roof, or if you would rather get experienced professionals to do it for you, The Inspectors Company is here to help. We offer #1 roof inspection services in all of San Diego, and we’ll make sure that your roof is in proper shape. We are InterNACHI certified San Diego home inspectors, and we also provide other professional inspection services such as mold inspection, sewer line inspection, and more.

So there’s no reason to wait. Make sure to contact us today and get your roof inspected by our highly-trained inspectors, and you can spend your leisure time walking through Pantoja Park knowing that your roof is in proper condition.

5 Signs You Need a Roof Inspection


Having a well-maintained and durable roof is important to every homeowner. After all, roofs have a major role in protecting a house from the elements, alongside the walls, of course. It’s easy to forget about it and just assume that your roof is in good condition. Still, you should really pay attention to any possible signs that your roof might need inspecting and repairing.

In this article, we will examine the five most important signs that you need a roof inspection. And always remember – if you’re unsure how to properly inspect your roof, you can always contact professional roofing inspectors in San Diego, CA.

Should-I-get-a-roof-inspectionShould I get a roof inspection?

There are specific signs to look out for if you suspect something is wrong with your roof. Some are easier to spot, some aren’t, but they are all equally important.

Visible roof damage

Roof damage is mostly easy to spot, no matter if your roof is made out of shingles or tiles. You should look out for any missing shingles, holes, bends, or cracks in your roof. This is the main entry point for water to leak into your house or insects and critters entering your attic and making it their home. Even if there are no thunderstorms or any other natural disasters in your area, the roof can still crack and break due to exposure to temperature and wind.

Clogged or damaged gutters and drainage issues

Any sign of water running down your facade means that your gutters are probably clogged, bent, or cracked and that your drainage system has issues draining water properly. If you leave your gutters clogged for a longer period, the water can seriously damage your walls, and even your foundation.

Water stains on ceiling or walls

If your ceiling or walls have any wet or dried-out stains, or the presence of mold, then that means that water or moisture has found a way inside your roof and has started leaking through the attic. This is a serious sign that your roof needs an inspection. Unattended moisture and leaks can lead to serious molding which can cause major health issues, as mold can irritate your eyes and your skin and cause issues to your lungs.

Peeling paint

Another thing you should look out for is the paint on your roofline. If it’s peeling or appears worn, it might mean that there’s a buildup of water and humidity in your roof which causes your paint to deteriorate. Even though it might seem unimportant, peeling roofline paint might be a sign of water leaking through your roof and into your attic and the rest of the house.

Sagging roof

If you notice that your roof isn’t straight and is instead sagging downwards, then your roof needs to be inspected immediately. A sagging roof indicates water leaks and moisture build ups which deform the roof, and may lead to major structural damage if left unchecked. If the moisture builds up too much, you will need to have your entire roof replaced. Therefore, make sure to act quickly.

You should definitely have your roof inspected as soon as possible if you notice any of the signs mentioned above. The more you delay it the greater the risk for further roof deterioration which can result in serious structural damage. Hiring professionals to do the job has many benefits.

Where-can-I-find-reputable-roofing-inspectors-in-San-Diego-CAWhere can I find reputable roofing inspectors in San Diego, CA?

If you live in the San Diego area and you require roof inspection services, then make sure to contact The Inspectors Company. We are a certified and professional home inspection company that specializes in roof inspections. In case you need any other type of home inspection as well – we’re here for you. Our other services include mobile home inspection, thermal imaging and infrared home inspection, and more.

Don’t hesitate to give us a call and make your home as sturdy as the Old Point Loma Lighthouse!

 

 

Why Foundation Inspections Are an Indispensable Part of Home Inspections


Foundations are the stronghold of a home. As such, having them examined is of immense value in determining a property’s structural stability and safety. Moreover, having to repair them is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor to deal with, for both parties involved in a real estate purchase.

So whether you are planning to sell or buy a home in Chula Vista, it’s only natural that you wonder how your home inspector will examine this part of the property and whether impaired foundations could be considered a potential deal breaker.

Keep reading to learn more about how foundation inspections work and why they are an integral part of home inspections.

What-does-a-foundation-inspection-includeWhat does a foundation inspection include?

Examining the foundations is one of the key elements of home inspections. As with all other aspects of home inspections, this is a non-invasive, visual search for signs of structural damage designed to identify existing problems.

To perform the visual check, your inspector will need free access to the property’s basement, crawl space, and attic, so make sure to declutter these areas as much as possible.

Your inspector will look for signs such as:

  • Cracked drywall
  • Cracked ceilings
  • Cracked exterior walls
  • Misaligned windows or doors that jam and fail to latch
  • Slanted floors or cracked tiles
  • Bouncy floorboards
  • Signs that the walls and the ceiling are separating
  • Excessive moisture in the basement or crawl space
  • Cracks in the foundation
  •  A tilting chimney
  • Warped siding
  • Cracks and gaps over doorways and windows
  • Sunken staircases and porches

These are all powerful indicators that something might be wrong with your home’s foundations. Your inspector will provide you with a report and give you an estimate of how bad the damage is.

However, if the inspection report reveals major structural and safety concerns and you want to get an exact estimate of the cost of repairs, you’ll need to hire a structural engineer. A structural engineer will also help you determine the best course of action to fix the problem.

Are-foundation-issues-a-deal-breaker-in-a-home-inspectionAre foundation issues a deal-breaker in a home inspection?

One of the most common misconceptions about home inspections is that damaged foundations can lead to a failing grade on the final inspection report. However, this is simply not how home inspections work. Even though they might uncover concerning issues, the closure can still take place as long as both parties agree on the terms.

That being said, unless the buyer has waived the home inspection contingency clause and agreed to buy the home as-is, when the inspection report uncovers major foundation issues that the seller is not willing to repair, they are within their right to walk away from the deal.

Furthermore, not all foundation issues are equally serious and not all are equally expensive to repair. Essentially, foundation issues don’t have to ruin a deal. Still, they should never go uninspected, as even minor ones can allow other problems, such as mold or termites, to enter your home.

Where in Chula Vista can I find a trustworthy home inspector?

If you intend to buy a property near Castle Park High School or anywhere else in the vicinity, and you need professional guidance to make a decision you won’t regret down the road, The Inspectors Company will gladly offer you their help.

We provide our clients with a full range of residential and commercial building inspections, customized to meet any of the client’s specific needs. So whether you desire to check your household appliances for safety issues or get an in-depth thermal imaging inspection, The Inspectors Company can do that and more. Give us a call today!

All About Household Appliances Inspections


Home inspections are designed to help clients get a good understanding of a home’s true condition and dismiss any possible safety concerns a property might have. If home appliances are included in your real estate purchase, it’s only logical to ask yourself the question of whether or not your scheduled home inspection in Chula Vista will check them for faultiness.

If so, how thorough is an appliance check?  Which appliances will your inspector examine, and which ones aren’t part of the home inspection process?

From adding home inspection contingency clauses to contracts, debunking some of the most frequent home inspection myths, to the importance of inspecting the foundation of a house, there are many aspects to a home inspection. In this article, you’ll find out all there is to know about home appliance inspections. Read on!

Do home inspectors check appliances?Do-home-inspectors-check-appliances

The answer to this question is yes, they do. The primary goal of home inspections is to determine whether the property you are purchasing is move-in safe. Home inspectors usually operate and check all the major, built-in household appliances that go with the property for signs of serious malfunctioning.

It’s important to note that this type of inspection is not a detailed inspection by an appliance expert. Instead, the goal is simply to determine whether the appliance is properly installed, operational and safe to use.

Additionally, home inspectors can verify whether there are manufacturer recalls on any of the appliances in your household. This is a specialized type of service called a RecallCheck, and you can get it together with your standard home inspection.

What is a RecallCheck service?

Although most manufacturer recalls are made publicly available online, the process of searching through the database is often time and energy-consuming. According to the OECD, consumer reactions to product recalls are still worryingly low, meaning that a large number of faulty and potentially dangerous household appliances remain widely in use.

As part of an appliance inspection, your inspector will note down the make, model and serial number of all accessible appliances and submit their report. RecallCheck service then matches the specifics against their database to check whether a recall has been issued.

Do home inspectors run the dishwasher? Do-home-inspectors-run-the-dishwasher

Appliance inspections usually check the functionality of large, built-in appliances that stay in the household after the purchase. This includes the dishwasher, stove, built-in microwave, refrigerator, furnace, air conditioner, water heater, and food-waste disposal. Smaller, easily moved, and unplugged appliances are typically not part of the inspection.

To check whether your dishwasher is in working order, your home inspector will first perform a visual check of the appliance and make sure it’s securely installed. They will also look for signs of leaks or water damage to the floors and cabinets surrounding the appliance and check the condition of the water supply line and the drain hose. After that, they will run it using normal operating controls, to see if it fills up, drains, and performs a full washing cycle.

Where can I hire a reliable home inspection in Chula Vista & the vicinity?

If you’re purchasing a home near Eastlake High School or anywhere else in Chula Vista, and you’d like to have the property thoroughly inspected, reach out to The Inspectors Company.

Our team of certified InterNACHI home inspectors specializes in providing the full scope of residential and commercial property inspections tailored to suit your needs.

Whether you’re looking to get an appliance check, a mold inspection, thermal imaging inspection, verbal home inspection or more, you can count on us to deliver the highest standard of service. Get in touch with us today!

6 Common Home Inspection Myths


Everyone’s heard about home inspections – they are an important element of real-estate purchases. Still, many people aren’t sure whether they should get one or fear what an expert investigation into the property’s state could uncover.

This is all due to common misconceptions that stem from not understanding the procedure to the fullest. In the following article, we’ll discuss what your home inspector in Chula Vista really can and can’t do and help you get a better grasp of the scope and benefits of home inspections. Read on!

What are some home inspection myths?

What-are-some-home-inspection-mythsHere are some of the most common home inspection myths that need debunking:

 

1. Home inspection is the same as a home appraisal

Sometimes the concepts of home appraisal and home inspection get mixed up. However, they are not the same. A home appraisal is meant to estimate the property’s value, while a home inspection assesses its condition and whether it’s move-in-ready or needs repairing. However, you can use the inspection report as a basis to predict repair costs and investments and get a better understanding of the property’s true market value.

2. You can fail a home inspection

Home inspections are expert opinions about the condition of the property being examined. They do not give failing or passing grades. Instead, they assess whether or not the home is safe and check whether everything is according to laws and regulations. However, it’s up to the buyer and seller to judge whether the recommended repairs are worth the investment and decide whether or not to proceed with the purchase.

3. Buyers don’t need to be present during the inspection

Being present during a home inspection is highly recommended. It gives buyers the opportunity to ask their inspector everything they need to know about the property’s condition. Plus, they can ask the inspector for maintenance tips to help them in the long run.

4. Home inspectors help you negotiate prices

Home inspectors are not involved in the negotiation process. They provide you with an inspection report and can give you general guidelines to help you predict future investments. However, to get accurate repair price predictions, you’ll need to further investigate on your own. The terms for negotiation are defined by the contingency clauses in the buyer’s offer and are up to buyers and sellers to work out.

5. Newly constructed and flipped homes don’t need to be inspected

Although many people expect that brand new or recently repaired homes are in top condition, this doesn’t have to be the case. Home inspections often reveal major underlying concerns and issues even in such properties. For example, they can uncover deal-breaking foundation issues undetectable to the untrained eye.

6. An inspection can detect everything that’s wrong with the home

Although an expert inspection is a standardized procedure, it’s important to understand its limitations. How precise the report will be depends on the type of inspection you decide to get.

Specialized inspections, like thermal imaging, can detect hidden issues that verbal walk-throughs can’t. For example, a RecallCheck is about checking electrical appliances for functioning issues, and so on.

However, home inspections are essentially non-invasive visual assessments, and certain areas of the property can be inaccessible to your inspector. Therefore, such areas are listed as inaccessible in the final report.

An-inspection-can-detect-everything-thats-wrong-with-the-homeWhere can I find an experienced home inspector in Chula Vista & the vicinity?

If you’re in the process of purchasing a home near Rancho Del Rey Middle School, or anywhere else in Chula Vista’s residential area, don’t hesitate to contact The Inspectors Company to help you make an informed decision.

All of our inspectors are InterNACHI licensed and certified specialists with years of experience in the field. We offer a full scope of residential and commercial building inspections tailored to suit your needs. Give us a call today!

All You Need to Know About Home Inspection Contingency


Generally, contingency clauses are added to real-estate purchase contracts to ensure certain conditions are met before the contract becomes binding. A home inspection contingency allows the buyer to walk away from a purchase penalty free, in case a home inspection reveals defects the buyer is not willing to accept.

So, if you are buying or selling a home in Chula Vista, or anywhere else in the area of San Diego, and you’d like to find out more about how home inspection contingency works, we’ve compiled a short guide to give you a more detailed insight into the matter. Keep reading to learn more!

How does home inspection contingency work?How-does-home-inspection-contingency-work

Home inspection contingency clauses are the conditions listed in the buyer’s offer and are meant to protect the buyer’s interests. They’re not a mandatory part of purchase contracts, and sellers can refuse offers that contain them. Still, they are highly beneficial and should not be waived easily.

Essentially, adding a home inspection contingency clause to the offer means that, as a buyer, you have the right to withdraw from the purchase without penalty and get your deposit back if the home inspection doesn’t provide satisfactory results.

Moreover, most home inspection contingencies provide the buyer with the tools for negotiation. Based on the results of a home inspection, buyers can renegotiate the property’s price or ask the seller to make repairs before the deal is sealed.

What does it mean to remove the inspection contingency?

Removing the inspection contingency means that the terms of the contract have been met and that the purchase can proceed to a successful close.

Once the inspection has been completed and the buyer feels that certain repairs need to be made, they can use the inspection report and negotiate the repairs with the seller to see which ones they are willing to make.

If the condition of the home is to the buyer’s satisfaction and all repair requests have been negotiated, the buyer fills a contingency removal form and submits it to the seller to show that they’re willing to go forward with the purchase.

How long does inspection contingency take?

All contingency clauses have a removal date. This means that there’s a limited timeframe within which the buyer can act upon the inspection report and make a decision whether or not to proceed with the purchase.

If the deadline for negotiations and repairs is not met and the contingency removal is not signed, the contract can be declared null, and the buyer can lose their claim on the home. Therefore, it’s very important for the buyer to be ahead of the deadline and schedule the home inspection as soon as possible.

In California, the default contingency period is set for 17 days, although it can be shortened or waived to make an offer stand out in a multiple-offer scenario. Waiving the contingency clause means the buyer commits to purchase the home as-is.

How-long-does-inspection-contingency-takeWhere in Chula Vista can I get a first-rate home inspection?

If you’re buying a home in East Chula Vista, or anywhere else in the vicinity, and you need the services of an InterNACHI certified inspector, The Inspectors Company is the go-to company for you.

Whether the property you’re purchasing needs a professional foundation examination, or a thorough household appliances check-up, our trained and dedicated inspectors can help. We provide a full scope of residential inspection services tailored to meet all of your specific needs.

At The Inspectors Company, you can get mold and thermal imaging inspections, mobile home inspections, commercial building inspections, verbal home inspections, and more. We can answer all of your questions and concerns and debunk common misconceptions about home inspections. Don’t hesitate to give us a call today!