Bux-Mont Home Inspection Services

Questions? Schedule an Inspection Call 267.898.2218

Frequently Asked Questions

About Home Inspections
What is the purpose of a home inspection?

The purpose of the pre-purchase home inspection is to provide the prospective home buyer a general opinion of the specified components and systems of the home at the time of the inspection. Many times, our findings may lead to a recommendation for further evaluation and/or repairs by a qualified and/or licensed specialist. The inspection and report is intended only as a general guide to help the client make his/her own evaluation of the condition of the home, and is not intended to reflect the value of the premises, or make any representation as to the advisability of purchase.

Are you a certified and insured Home Inspector?

Yes, I am certified by the American Home Inspector Training Institute and a member of NACHI (The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors). I am fully covered by E&O and General Liability insurance that meets and/or exceeds that required by Pennsylvania state law.

How far ahead of time should I schedule my home inspection?

We recommend contacting us to schedule your inspection within 1 - 2 days of signing the agreement of sale. Most sale agreements will limit the number of days you have to conduct an inspection, this will ensure scheduling within your allowed time period. We offer flexible scheduling and conduct our inspections 7 days a week.

How long will the home inspection take?

Normally, homes of average size and condition take from 2 1/2 to 3 hours. However, inspection times can vary based on property size, condition and complexity of the inspection.

Do I need to be present for the home inspection?

While you are not required to be present, we strongly recommend you are present during the inspection. This will enable you to observe the inspection as it is conducted, will provide an opportunity to review the home's components with you and personally explain any recommendations for each.

How will I know if the home passes or fails the inspection?

The home inspection does not provide a rating of pass or fail. Often the pre-purchase inspection is confused with a code compliance inspection. While references are made to National Building Standards in regards to defects and safety concerns, we do not perform a "code" inspection or report on violations of the local building codes of your municipality. Code compliance inspections are conducted by officials of your local municipal authority and do not serve the same purpose as a pre-purchase home
inspection. You will be provided with a detailed report of the condition of the components and systems inspected followed by our recommendations.

When will I receive the inspection report?

All reports are delivered to our clients within 24 hours after the inspection is completed, most times even faster.

What do I do if the inspection finds things that need to be repaired, replaced or require further evaluation?

You should refer to your Agreement of Sale for limitations regarding responsibility for repairs. Most homes are found to have several defects that are usually the result of normal wear, weathering and/or aging. These types of defects are most often considered maintenance items and are usually the responsibility of the buyer. Homes found to have major defects; damage or deficiencies that require immediate attention may need to be addressed before the sale is finalized. Any items requiring repair or replacement that you consider to be of issue, should be discussed with your Realtor and/or the seller prior to settlement. When further evaluation or repairs are needed, in all cases we recommend that they be performed by a licensed specialist.

Can you conduct repairs or recommend a contractor to conduct the repairs?

No, we do not conduct repairs or recommend contractors, this is a violation of the NACHI Code of Ethics to which we are bound.

Do you do Termite Inspections?

Yes, we can provide a termite and wood wood destroying insect inspection. The termite inspection will need to be scheduled and conducted separate from the home inspection. Most lenders require a termite inspection be completed with a certification issued in order to provide a mortgage. Our inspection will provide a inspection certification that will meet lender requirements.

Why should I have my home tested for Radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in the soil and moves up through the ground and into your home through cracks and other openings in the foundation and slab. Your home can cause radon to get trapped inside creating elevated levels. In fact, you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure at home. That is where you spend the most time. According to the EPA, nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the United States is estimated to have an elevated radon level (4pCi/L or more). The National Academy of Sciences has concluded that after smoking, radon is the second leading cause of death due to lung cancer in the United States. Testing is the only way to find out your home's radon levels. The EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. When elevated levels are confirmed, the problem should be corrected. To find out more about radon in the home go to: http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/hmbyguid.html. To order a copy of the EPA publication " A Citizens Guide to Radon" EPA Document #
402-K-02-006 log onto http://www.epa.gov/ncepihom/ or call 1-800-438-4318.

Why should I have a Mold Inspection performed on my home?

Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. To find out more about mold go to: http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html. To order a copy of the EPA publication "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home" EPA Document # 402-K-02-003 log onto http://www.epa.gov/ncepihom/ or call 1-800-438-4318.