Home Inspection

FAQ's

1. Why do I need a home inspection?

The purchase of a home is typically the most important investment of your life. After deciding on a home that suits your needs, a home inspection will give you a third-party unbiased opinion of the systems and physical condition of the property. The inspection will provide you with the necessary analysis to inform you and make you comfortable with your decision. For those buyers who are familiar with houses, the inspector acts as a second set of unbiased eyes; and the report becomes a list to evaluate necessary improvements.

2. What is a home inspection?

In general:
A Tiger Home Inspection is an opportunity for you to review the conditions of the home with a qualified inspector, to learn to maintain the home, and to receive an informative report packet.

By definition:
The State of Connecticut Home Inspection Licensing Authority and the American Society of Home Inspectors specifically define a home inspection as:

- A visual examination of the structure and systems that are accessible at the time of inspection,   with no dismantling, destructive probing, movement of personal possessions, furniture,   carpets, etc.

- An inspection of readily accessible areas – areas blocked by furniture, personal possessions   or prevent entry are not included in a visual inspection. It makes sense to insure through your   representative that reasonable access is possible.

- A detailing of the conditions existing at the time of the inspection. It is not a statement of future   life expectancy or future maintenance needs.

At Tiger our inspectors exceed these minimum industry standards and often exceed our competition's typical practices.

3. What does a Tiger home inspection include?
The following is a general list of items to be inspected.

- Exterior components – roof, chimney, flashings, siding, trim gutters, grading/drainage,   walkways/driveways, porches/decks/entries, and retaining walls.

- Garage – structure, fire protection, overhead doors/openers, exterior components.

- Basement/Crawl space– foundation, floor, structure, insulation, vapor barriers, chimney, stairs,   entry, water penetration, finished spaces.

- Heating/Cooling System- heat plant, distribution system, fuel delivery/storage, safety features.

- Electrical System – exterior service entry, accessible interior wiring, panel, smoke detectors.

- Plumbing System – supply system, drain/waste/vent system, interior flow, well equipment,   water heater.

- Interior Rooms – interior surfaces and components, operation of all accessible windows and   doors, testing of all accessible electric outlets, heat source, fireplaces.

- Kitchen – operation of installed appliances (DW, Stove, Disposal, Exhaust), interior   components.

- Bathrooms – operation of plumbing fixtures, interior surfaces, electrical.

- Attic – structure, insulation, vapor barrier, ventilation, water penetration.

- Wood Destroying Insects Inspection.

4. How long does a home inspection take?

An average-sized home will take 2-3 hours to inspect. Inspection time frames can vary depending on the size and age of the home, client involvement/questions, and optional tests ordered.

5. How much does an inspection cost?

Inspection fees vary depending on several factors. A standard inspection starts at $325 for houses and $300 for condominiums – this includes Wood Boring Insect Inspection. Factors that may add to the fee include the size of the home, the necessity for inspecting additional garages/outbuildings and/or additional systems, the age of the home (antique homes require a slightly higher inspection fee), the need for optional environmental tests, etc. Call our client service staff for an estimate based on the specifics of your potential home: 1-800-328-INSP.

Beyond our Standard Inspection fee you may be interested in a variety of Optional Tests that may apply to you or your property. See FAQ #6.

6. What Optional Tests should I consider?

Some Optional Tests apply to any property; others are dependent on the age and components of the home. More detail on OPTIONAL TESTS is provided on our site, the items will hyperlink you to the appropriate information.

- Any property can be tested for RADON IN AIR, and MOLD/INDOOR AIR QUALITY.

- Houses with SEPTIC systems – Our SEPTIC INSPECTION involves contacting a pumping   company to pump and inspect your system.

- Houses with Well Water – FUNCTIONAL FLOW TEST, BACTERIA, PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL,   RADON IN WATER, and LEAD IN WATER SUPPLY. More advanced water testing includes   ARSENIC, HYDROCARBONS, PESTICIDES, and FLUORIDE.

- Tests that would apply to older homes include LEAD PAINT, LEAD IN PLUMBING, ASBESTOS   SAMPLING, and UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK.

7.How do I choose an Inspection company?

You should be sure to choose an inspection company that is:

- Licensed by the State of Connecticut – All of our inspectors are licensed.

- Experienced and that demonstrates a high level of competence, ethical behavior and has   continuing education. - As the largest company in CT, Tiger can assign an appropriate   inspector for you needs. Tiger has in-house training by specific professionals and extensive   office and field client-service staff.

- Insured – We are fully insured including Errors and Omissions, liability and workers   compensation. The State of CT does not require inspectors to carry insurance. Proper   insurance will protect you and other parties involved in the transaction.

-A Full-Service operation – one phone call to our client-service staff and your standard inspection   with wood boring insects and optional tests can be arranged.

- A Member of respected trade associations. - Tiger inspectors are members of ASHI, CAHI and   NAHI. These three associations hold their members to a high level of competence and ethics.

8. What type of report should I expect?

Many types of inspection reports exist. The two most important factors are:

· You receive a written report that at least satisfies the CT Standards of Practice
· You receive the report on site.

Your report should also include verbal review on site and a summary at the end of the inspection to ensure your complete understanding and comfort. Reports of any type received after the inspection usually lose the comprehensive value by the time they are received.

Our report includes a checklist and rating with a narrative explanation of major components, maintenance items, and deficiencies and provides an easily understood format for our clients.