Purchasing any type of property, whether a resale, short sale, a foreclosure, a bank owned
 property, condo or townhome, a brand new home or just want a pre-listing inspection on a home you wish to sell can be over whelming.  Not only is the process stressful, but also time consuming and that is why an inspection performed by RAINBOW HOME INSPECTIONS is a huge plus in your favor.  The inspection time and inspection fees depend on certain property criteria including, age of structure, vacant or occupied, utilities on or off, square footage, and whether the unit has a crawl space, slab or basement. A property inspection can last for at least 3 plus hours and of course the larger the structure the longer the inspection.  We also take the extra time to answer any questions that you may have and also educate you on certain maintenance items that need to be performed in order to keep your home in good condition.   The inspector will also suggest certain energy efficient savings that can help reduce your utility bills.  He will also take the time to discuss safety issues.  Check out the SAMPLE INSPECTION REPORT to see just how detailed an inspection is.

The inspector also carries the MLS Lockbox Key that requires a “call before showing” (CBS) code that is provided by the listing agent.  Once this code is acquired, access to the structure can be gained without having to have the agent open the property up for the inspection.

What An Inspection Includes

It is important that you understand what an inspector can do for you as well as what his limits are.  The inspection consists of a visual observation of the major structural, mechanical and electrical systems that comprise a typical home, and that are accessible at the time of the inspection only. The inspector concentrates on the major deficiencies, that is, those areas that could cost many hundreds of dollars to correct if defective or which could threaten the health or safety of the building or its inhabitants.  The inspection will not include latent or concealed deficiencies.  The inspector will not move furniture or stored belongings or lift carpeting.  He will not turn utilities on, if off.  Except for the main electric panel, no equipment or systems will be dismantled. Some deficiencies may exist which are beyond the ability of a home inspector to reasonably detect.   When at all possible, a detailed and comprehensive computerized inspection report including color photos, will be available at the end of the inspection.  If circumstances don’t permit the report to be generated at the location, the report will be emailed within 24 hours.  The inspection report is not a guarantee, a warranty or an insurance policy.

The following areas are covered during an inspection:

   GROUNDS – driveway, sidewalks, retaining walls, patio, porch,
                         porch cover,
 decks, fences and gates

   EXTERIOR – stairs, walls, trim, chimney, hose faucets, gutters
                         and downspouts

   FOUNDATION – grading, slab, raised foundation, crawlspace,
                              and basements

   ROOF – roof type, condition and exposed flashing

   PLUMBING – main line, supply line, waste line, fuel system and
                         water heater

   HEATNG and COOLING –type, distribution, condition, air
                         conditioning and related components

   ELECTRICAL – service, main panel, sub panels, visible
                            wiring and outlets

   INTERIOR – doors, windows, walls, ceilings, floors fireplaces,
                       ceiling fans, stairs, smoke detectors, laundry
                       area, and attic area

   GARAGE – floor, walls, vehicle door, automatic openers and
                    electrical

   KITCHEN – sink, counters, disposal, range, cooktop, wall oven,
                     dishwasher, vent/hood system and built in features

   BATHROOMS – toilets, sinks, venting, bathtubs, and showers