Q: What is the typical length of time for an inspection?
A: An inspection usually ranges from about two to three hours in length. Typically, no less than two hours.

Q. What is the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)?
A: The American Society of Home Inspectors is the professional association for independent home inspectors. Since 1976, ASHI's Standards of Practice have served as the home inspector's performance guide and is  accepted by professional and government authorities. Copies of the Standards of Practice are available free from http://www.ashi.com.

Q: Do you offer any guarantees?
A:  We guarantee that we will strive to meet or exceed the standards put in place by the American Society of Home Inspectors. Our commitment and purpose as home inspectors is to provide a professional opinion based upon a visual examination of the condition of the structure.

Q: Is an inspection really necessary for new home construction?
A: Our inspectors are examining the home especially concentrating upon the code and habitability issues, as well as being certain that all construction has been executed in a "workmanlike" manner. Many issues and discrepancies are found by a professional home inspector. In the case of new home construction, most of the construction tasks (foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, painting, etc.) are usually subcontracted.

Q: Newly constructed homes must be approved by the local code building officials, so why is an inspection necessary?
A: There are often problems with a new home that are not code violations, but could have serious consequences to the home buyer. Always be cautious of a builder who tries to dissuade a home inspection on a newly built home.  If you are in the process of buying a new home and the builder denies the option of a buyer hiring their own home inspector, questions should be raised.

Q: What's the difference between an appraisal and a home inspection?
A:  An appraisal attempts to establish the market value for the structure, while an inspection evaluates the actual physical condition of the structure and its various components and systems. It provides an objective examination of the physical structure and systems of a house.

Q: What is Radon?
A: Radon is a gas that occurs from the natural decay of uranium. Uranium is found in soil and escapes into the air. Radon is colorless and odorless, and is a naturally occurring substance and is always present. Radon normally dissipates in the air but with homes with poor ventilation it can become concentrated and cause health hazards.
For more information on Radon Gas visit http://www.epa.gov

Q: What is EIFS?
A: Exterior Insulated Finish System’ is the generic name for synthetic stucco. There are sometimes clear visual clues indicating problems, such as delamination, cracking, etc. However, it is not uncommon for moisture to accumulate behind the  acrylic surface. The best way to maintain your synthetic stucco home and be sure there is not moisture infiltration is to have your EIFS tested. Visit The EIFS Inspection Explained for a thorough explanation of the Exterior Insulated Finishing System and the processes of inspection.

Q: Is there any charge for telephone Consultation?
A: If Finegan Inspection Services, Inc. has performed an inspection on your home, there is no charge for a telephone consultation.

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