The process follows a logical order during which I evaluate accessible and visible material conditions. The average single-family house takes 2 hours to complete. An alphabetized, typed report is placed in first class mail the following day. The report can also be faxed or e-mailed. For subsequent questions, I stay on call free of charge for the entire time you own the home.

1st Roof - roofing materials, chimney, gutters, plumbing vents, flashings, and exhaust fans.

2nd Exterior - house siding and trim, porches, decks, garage, roof overhangs, windows, gutter downspouts, surface (lawn) grading, electrical outlets.

3rd Basement - foundation walls, floor framing (joists, beams, & support posts).

4th Electrical - remove all main panel covers and evaluate for scorch marks, corrosion, melted insulation, mismatched wiring/circuit breakers/fuses, establish maximum capacity, locate main shut off, look for evidence of amateur wiring.

5th Heating - establish approximate age and overall condition, locate main shut off, point out filters and dampers (forced air) or circulating pumps and zone valves (forced water), look for adequate support at all ducts or supply piping, check for leaks (air or water), point out potential asbestos-containing material, verify heat is supplied to entire living space. Verify exhaust pipe is sound (without holes or corrosion) and has adequate slope rising to chimney.

6th Plumbing - locate main shut off, check all accessible drain and supply pipes for leaks, deteriorated sections, inadequate slope at drain pipes, adequate support (drain & supply pipes), evaluate vent piping. For wells, check flow at bathtub and pressure at pump gauge.

7th Laundry - verify electrical outlets are grounded, check for water leaks and blocked drains, verify dryer exhaust air reaches outside of house.

8th Hot water heater - check for leaks and corrosion, relief valve should have a drain pipe that reaches the floor. If gas, verify exhaust pipe is sound without holes or corrosion and has adequate slope rising to chimney.

9th Kitchen - operate all appliances, check for water leaks under sink, verify electrical outlets are grounded, exhaust fan should reach outside air.

10th Bathrooms - evaluate floors for weak/soft areas at tubs and toilets. Flush all drains checking for leaks, verify exhaust fan does not terminate into attic, check all tub, shower, and sink faucets for leaks and functionality.

11th Interior - open and close doors and windows to see if they stick or rub, check walls and ceilings for repairs, cracks, and water stains (use moisture meter on any stain).

Last Attic - evaluate visible and accessable roof framing for sagging, cracks, compromised (cut) by contractor or homeowner, identify amount and type of insulation, verify ventilation is functioning, look for evidence of water leaks, decayed or stained wood. Look for mold, fungus, and mildew.