Inspection Details
The inspection usually begins with the client scheduling an inspection through this website or by the client calling 815-353-6049. At the scheduled time, I will meet the client at the property to be inspected.
Oftentimes, the client’s realtor is also in attendance. For the most thorough inspections, the utilities must be on in order to properly test the structure’s mechanical systems. If the inspection agreement (emailed prior to the inspection) has not yet been signed, the agreement is discussed and a hard copy must be signed prior to the start of the inspection.
Payment can be made before, during (cash, check, Zelle, or credit/debit) or when the report is being retrieved.
The inspection begins. The perimeter of the home is walked, as well as the roof (when safe). Digital pictures are taken during the entire course of the inspection and used in a thorough report that documents various safety/security issues, deficiencies, damage, design or structural issues, and various maintenance suggestions. The inside of the home is inspected, from the attic to the basement and everything in between. A thermal imager is used to detect moisture intrusion issues and insulation abnormalities.
The client may stay for the entire inspection, garnering maintenance tips and further understanding of the inner workings of the home. Often times the client is comfortable with simply being e-mailed the report. It is usually written and emailed to the client usually within 24 hours consisting of 25-40 pages and contains pictures and documentation of areas to be concerned with, maintenance issues, safety issues, and health concerns. The following is a partial list of the components that are inspected.
ROOF - material, chimney, flashing, venting, plumbing stack, skylights.
EXTERIOR – topography and drainage, gutter system, soffit and facia, windows, doors, landscaping, materials, walkways, patios, garage, driveway, decks, balconies.
STRUCTURE – configuration, basement, foundation, posts/beams, floor support, sub-floor, walls, roof frame, sheathing, stairway.
ELECTRIC – service entrance loop, service size, main disconnect, sub panel, grounding, distribution, outlets, switches, fixtures, fuses/breakers, ceiling fans.
HEATING – shut off valve, gas piping, furnace components, combustible air clearance, ducting, circulating pumps, radiators.
COOLING – compressor, condenser, coil, condensate drain, fan.
PLUMBING – service pipe, shut off valve, waste pipe, pumps, water heater components, venting, sump pump, ejector pump, faucets, sinks, bathtubs, toilets, bidets, laundry tub.
INTERIOR – interior doors, windows/hardware, doors/hardware, cabinets, interior trim, staircase, closets, access hatches.
INSULATION – material, venting, walls, floor, attic, vapor, moisture barrier, crawl space, basement.
APPLIANCES – range, oven, refrigerator, exhaust fan, dishwasher, garbage disposal, trash compactor, clothes washer/dryer, supply lines.
The actual inspection usually takes 2-4 hours, depending upon the size and complexity of the property. Additional inspections of components not covered by the standard home inspection are available. The inspection report with pictures and documentation will be emailed to the client, usually within 24 hours of the inspection.
CONTACT WATCHMAN INSPECTION, LLC TODAY
TESTIMONIALS
Client Success Stories: Hear What Our Clients Say
I am very pleased with the entire process from Watchman Inspections. Don showed up on time, explained what his process would be and answerede all my questions. Very knowledgeable and thorough with home inspections. Highly recommend!
GENE B.
Wheaton, Illinois
Very thorough with the inspection and provided a detailed report. Rated what was the most important to request for repair or replace and the hazards associated with the issues. Highly recommend his services
JACKIE P
Elgin, Illinois
If you are looking for a home inspection company, there is no reason to look elsewhere. Don is thorough, explaining everything as he goes and the report provided is excellent and very detailed. Highly recommend and will use again the next time we buy.
JEFF A
Roscoe, Illinois