The Home Inspection Process
When the scheduled date and time arrive, and all of the permissions, access codes, and any special instructions have been communicated, Kim Green will begin your home inspection.
Using state of the art and time tested tools Kim will methodically inspect and test the construction systems and components of the home. He will document his findings with photos and notes, which will be throughly discussed with you during the walk-through review at the end of the inspection time. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain an understanding of the current condition of the home's systems and components.
A written report of the findings, including all the relevant photos will be produced and sent to you electronically.
Systems & Components We Inspect
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Attic Spaces
We visually inspect the attic access; roof structure; electrical elements, plumbing and vent stacks; attic ventilation; insulation.
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Electrical System
We visually inspect the service entry, meter and main shut-off, Hawaiian Electric Company seal, main panel rating, main service conductor, branch wiring, grounding, sub-panels, and circuit breakers. Receptacles, lights, and fixtures will be reported in specific room sections where they occur. Wiring in crawl spaces and attic will be reported in those specific sections.
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Garage or Carport
We visually inspect and test for basic operation, garage doors, automatic door operation and safety features including obstruction sensor and auto reverse on meeting resistance; clearances of combustible appliances, self-closing solid core doors to interior; and all interior room components.
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Major Utility Appliances
We visually inspect and test for basic operation where possible, air conditioning units, water heater, solar water and photovoltaic systems, laundry washer and dryer, utility sink, and utility room components.
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Roofing System
We visually inspect the roof covering material, roof plains/structure, valleys, penetrations and their flashing, edge flashing, roof drainage systems, exposed beams, siding, and trim, and solar water, photovoltaic system, and other roof penetrations and bracing.
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The Exterior
We visually inspect the condition of siding, walls, exposed beams, rafters, and posts, trim and fascia, finishes, flashing, and sealants, as well as the exterior electrical outlets and lights.
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Site, Foundation and Structural Elements
We inspect the site grade and surface water drainage characteristics as they may affect the foundation; as well as the condition of retaining walls, fences and gates, walkways and patios, and driveway, and the foundation and other structural elements as viewed from crawl space, or the perimeter of the home.
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Bathrooms
We inspect sinks, faucets and drains, vanity, cabinets, outlets, lights, mirrors, exhaust fans, toilet, bath tub and shower, and interior room elements.
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The Interior
We inspect smoke detectors, outlets, lights, ceiling fans, ceiling, walls, windows, doors, closets, and floors, steps/stairs, lofts and balconies, and other elements.
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Kitchen
We inspect sinks, faucets, drains, disposal, dishwasher, countertops and cabinets, outlets, lights, ceiling fans, range and oven, exhaust fan, installed microwave oven, refrigerator, and interior room elements.
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Plumbing System
We inspect the Board of Water meter and shut-off valve locations, pressure regulator, hose bibs, entry piping and distribution piping where visible, drain and vent piping where visible, waste drain clean-outs and irrigation valves; gas meter, regulator, and valve locations. Interior plumbing will be reported on in specific room sections where it occurs.
Supply valves are visually inspected. They are not manipulated. It is commonly discovered that supply valves have some degree of corrosion and should first have a solvent and lubricant applied before attempting to turn, a process that can take up to 24 hours, and is not in the scope of the home inspection.
Many older properties in Hawaii have cast iron and galvanized plumbing still in use. These materials are prone to corrosion and deterioration over time. It is our practice to run the water in the home for 20-30 minutes to check for waste drain system backup. There are many factors that may contribute to, and result in, future waste drain system backup, which are not indicated during a home inspection. A camera plumbing inspection by a licensed plumbing contractor may be desired.
Sample Inspection Documents
Sample Inspection Report
Your Inspection Report is a thorough account of our findings with photos and captions, as well as a detailed summary section of the important issues discovered during the inspection.
Sample Inspection Agreement
Our Inspection Agreement details the industry standards of home inspection. All inspections must be accompanied by a signed agreement.