A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. On average, a single-family home inspection usually takes 2-4 hours to complete, though this is heavily dependent on the of the size and condition of the home. After the inspection process, the inspector will send the client an inspection report (often within 48-72 hours) that covers their findings, complete with pictures and recommendations.

The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of :
• Structural Components
• Exterior Components
• Roofing System
• Heating System
• Cooling Systems
• Plumbing Systems
• Electrical System
• Insulation and Ventilation
• Fireplaces and Fuel Burning Appliances
ASHI publishes a Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what to expect to be covered in the home inspection report.
It is important to note that there may be some exceptions. If certain areas are inaccessible (locked door, tenant's belongings in the way) or unsafe conditions (severely steep roofs, poor structural integrity) the inspector will explain the situation and note that they were not able to assess that specific area or system.

As a buyer: Buying a home could be the largest single investment the homebuyer will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, homebuyers should strive to learn as much as they can about the house before they buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. Through the home inspection process, homebuyers will have a better understanding about their prospective house, which will allow them to make decisions with confidence.
As a seller: Home inspection gives you the opportunity to address any concerns and complete the necessary repairs in order to avoid delays at closing and put the house in a better selling condition.

A professional home inspection is an examination and objective assessment of the current condition of a house. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement. A home inspection is not an appraisal and will not determine the home's market value. It is also not a municipal inspection and does not verify local code compliance.

It is important to note that no house is perfect. Every home inspection will identify issues with the property and the inspector will communicate the severity of the issues found. The home inspector's goal is to leave their clients with a deeper understanding of their prospective home, so the client can make a sound decision as they continue their home buying process. The client should be fully aware of any issues, risks, or health concerns that may impact the client's decision. The inspector's role is not to tell the clients if they should buy the house or not, but to help the clients understand the full cost of ownership. If major problems are found, homebuyers may wish to negotiate with the seller to make repairs or cover their costs.

Typically, a home inspector will be contacted after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Usually this occurs after the attorney review process. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of the professional home inspector.

Radon is a radioactive noble gas that comes from the decay of radium in the soil. Radium is also a daughter or progeny nuclide of Uranium (Uranium decay). Radon is a colorless, odorless, invisible gas that can only be detected through the use of proper equipment and protocols.
Radon comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up.
Breathing radon over time increases your risk of lung cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Nationally, the EPA estimates that about 21,000 people die each year from radon-related lung cancer.