Below is a library of Frequently Asked Questions. If you have a question that is not covered in this section, please E-mail us at info@valueguardusa.com or call us at 800-965-8520

·Do I need a home inspection?
In most cases, purchasing real estate is the largest investment that you will ever make. Gaining insight into the general condition of the building, major deficiencies in any of the components, the age of it's systems and corresponding life expectancies, the need for repairs and the positive attributes of the property (i.e.: new roof, low maintenance exteriors and upgrades) gives you the necessary facts to make an informed buying decision.

The simple axiom is that the more you know about the property - the less your exposure to the risks inherent in purchasing the property.

(back to top)

·What does the home inspector inspect?
Starting at the exterior of the property, the inspector will visually inspect the roof, flashing, chimneys, gutters, and downspouts. The home inspector will then inspect the siding, trim, windows, doors, decks, walkways and driveways. Drainage issues, retaining walls and patios will be inspected as to any negative impact that they may pose on the building.

After the home inspector has completed his survey of the exterior he will inspect the visible framing members in the attic and basement for signs of structural defects and prior repairs.

The inspector will also visually inspect the electrical system, the heating and cooling systems, the plumbing, insulation, and appliances. While these areas are being observed the inspector will note any deficiencies in the interior components of the home.

In addition to noting any visible defects, throughout the inspection, the home inspector will explain how the various systems of the home operate and give you information on how to maintain the home. It is a good idea to bring a pad of paper and any questions that you may have to the inspection so the inspector can address your concerns during the on-site walk-through.

After the inspection is complete, the inspector will produce a written report that describes the systems and components of the home and reports the defects and repairs that were noted during the inspection.

(back to top)

· What kind of report does ValueGuard prepare?
Unlike many inspection companies that use checklists or "cookie cutter" reports, ValueGuard prepares a comprehensive narrative report that is custom tailored to the home that is being inspected.

Each major system of the property has a separate section that explains the system, its positive attributes, maintenance advice, and any defects that the inspector noted at the time of his/her inspection. All sections of the report are divided into three parts, which itemize the Major Defects, Safety Concerns and Other Comments.

The report also includes an Overview section that discusses the more significant issues, the inspector's recommendations and a section of general maintenance advice and service frequencies for the systems.

Simply stated, while nearly all home inspection companies tout their reports as the best, they are primarily designed to be easy for the inspection company to produce and deliver.

ValueGuard specifically designed its report to be easy for the consumer to understand.

(back to top)

·How long does the home inspection take?
The on-site inspection averages to 2 to 3 hours, but can vary based on the size, age and general condition of the home being inspected. Smaller properties will take less time, while large and complex properties will take longer.

(back to top)

· What is the cost of a home inspection?
ValueGuard home inspection fees are market competitive and are based on the size, age and complexity of the property being inspected, not on the cost of the property. Please contact our office for an exact price quote at 800-965-8520.

(back to top)

· Is ValueGuard insured for errors and omissions?
Yes. Proof of insurance is available upon request.

(back to top)

·Do I need an inspection if I am building or purchasing a new home?
Absolutely. Contrary to what many people think, brand new homes and homes under construction should be inspected regardless of whether they will be conveyed with a builder's warranty. Further, the inspections that are completed by local code enforcement officials are focused primarily on a narrow set of code compliance issues and are not nearly as broad or inclusive.

Completed Home ValueGuard will perform its standard comprehensive building inspection prior to settlement and produce a full written report detailing the inspector's findings. Three Phase New Construction Progress Inspection Part 1 - The home inspector will visit the property when the foundation has been poured, but prior to backfill and inspect the foundation, footings, basement slab preparation work, and foundation drainage system. The inspector's findings will be detailed in writing and provided in duplicate to the client. Part 2 - The building will be inspected prior to the installation of the insulation. The inspector will inspect the framing, sheathing, roofing materials and the rough electrical, heating and plumbing work. Again, the inspector's findings will be detailed in writing and provided in duplicate to the client. Part 3 - When the building is completed, the inspector will inspect the exterior, roof, gutters, chimneys, flashings, siding, trim, doors and site. He will also inspect the finished heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing, and interior systems. A standard ValueGuard comprehensive written report is supplied after this stage of the inspection process. Weekly New Construction Progress Inspection ValueGuard also offers weekly construction monitoring where the inspector visits the project once a week to monitor the work as it progresses. The inspector's findings will be detailed in writing and provided in duplicate to the client so a copy can be forwarded to the builder. When the building is complete, but prior to settlement, a final comprehensive inspection is performed and a written report is supplied to the client. Eleventh Month New Construction Inspection ValueGuard will perform a full inspection of the property for any issues that should be brought to the builder's attention prior to the lapse of the builder's warranty. A standard ValueGuard comprehensive written report is supplied to the client.

(back to top)

(back to top)

Library of Helpful Terms

On-Site Sewage

On-Site Sewage Systems

Hydraulic Load Tests

On-Site Sewage Test

Radon

Radon Test Types

Radon in Water