Ken Chadwick's Home Inspections
Phone: (937) 231-5266
323 Marchmont Drive.
Fairborn, OH. 45324-4356
Click here to see a sample report
The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors - The World's Elite Inspectors.
Inspected Once, Inspected Right!
"Our Standards of Practice" http://www.nachi.org/sop.htm
"Our Code of Ethics" http://www.nachi.org/code_of_ethics.htm
"Our inspectors pass the test!" http://exams.nachi.org/stats.ph
"Sell Your Home For More" http://www.nachi.org/syhfm.htm
"Inspection Excellence" http://www.nachi.org/inspectionexcellence.htm
"3 Mistakes Home Buyers Should Avoid" http://www.nachi.org/3mistakes.htm
"Compradres hispanos...Cheque aqui" http://www.nachi.org/espanolb.htm
"Codigo de etica" http://www.nachi.org/coespanish.htm
"Vendedores de casa hispanos...Cheque aqui" http://www.nachi.org/espanols.htm
"Contenido" http://www.nachi.org/sopspanish.htm
"Koreans welcome" http://www.nachi.org/nachikr.htm
"Kids Heath" http:/www.kidshealth.org/kid
"Tips for the home." http:/www.hometips.com
"Other Service Providers you May Need." http://www.nationalrealestatepages.com
Join The National Rifle Association http://membership.nrahq.org/default.asp?campaignid=XR020314
About Kenneth Chadwick
Licensing of home inspectors only sets a minimum standard. Much like being up to code, any less would be illegal. That's why I have worked to become a member of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). As a NACHI member, I:
Pass NACHI's On line Inspector Examination every year. This general, not association-specific exam is an industry standard required by NACHI and some state licensing boards,
Adhere to the industry's largest, most comprehensive Standards of Practice
Abide by NACHI's Code of Ethics,
Follow a strict continuing education policy that requires, among other things, that I receive 24 hours of continuing education each year,
Have completed NACHI's ethics "obstacle course" which ensures that I am aware of my ethical duties as a home inspector,
Have passed NACHI's Standards of Practice quiz,
Have signed and submitted an affidavit legally agreeing that I have and will continue to adhere to all NACHI standards, ethics, and education requirements,
Maintain a continuing education log that is verified by NACHI,
Submit a portion of my inspection reports to NACHI's report review committee for outside evaluation,
Am required to successfully complete NACHI's comprehensive Standards of Practice course and examination, roofing course and examination, and electrical course and examination.
Attend at least one chapter meeting or educational seminar every two years (reasonable exceptions apply),
Have access to the Inspector's Quarterly so I can keep up-to-date on all the latest issues in the home inspection industry,
Have access to a number of learning tools such as inspection tips and technique illustrations; a library of home inspection books and videos; the industry's largest message board; NACHI's "What's new" publication of recent inspection news; "Dear NACHI," a detailed advice column; free on line courses; quizzes and exams; and the NACHI University,
Have access to a time-tested agreement that helps avoid law suits,
Have access to a free report review and monitoring service,
Have access to the NACHI Mall, and
Provide access to a free consumer hot-line,
If you need a home inspection performed, don't settle for anything less than a NACHI-certified home inspector.
My Qualifications:
I am a member in good standing of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
I am a Member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
I am a Member of the Ohio Highway Watch.
I am a Recruiter for The National Rifle Association.
I am a Veteran of the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers
I have passed NACHI's On line Inspector Examination.
I have completed NACHI's Code of Ethics Obstacle Course.
I have taken NACHl's Standards of Practice Quiz.
I have taken and passed the following NACHI On line Courses: Roofing Inspection, Electrical Inspection, Structural Issues for Home Inspectors, Introduction to the Standard of Practice, Safe Practices for the Home Inspector, Green Building, Log Home Inspections and Decks Inspection Course.
I have taken and passed the following NACHI On line Mini- Courses: Emergency Egress, Polybutene Plumbing, TPR Valve Discharging Piping and Vermiculite Insulation.
I have taken and passed the following: Level 1 And Level 2 Mold Assessor course, Asthma Triggers and Allergen Screening course and EDR Neighborhood Environmental Reports Training course.
I abide by NACHI's Code of Ethics.
I follow NACHl's Standard of Practice.
I own and use high-tech equipment such as a gas leak detector and moisture meter.
I am available Saturdays and Sundays.
I generate easy-to-read inspection reports.
I am continuing my education through NACHI's Education Programs.
My Promise to You
Choosing the right home inspector can be difficult. Unlike most professionals, you probably will not get to meet me until after you hire me. Furthermore, different inspectors have varying qualifications, equipment, experience, reporting methods, and yes, different pricing. One thing for sure is that a home inspection requires work, a lot of work. Ultimately a thorough inspection depends heavily on the individual inspector's own effort. If you honor me by permitting me to inspect your new home, I guarantee that I will give you my very best effort. This I promise you.
Testimonials
Ken is very personable & was easy to work with during the inspection. Well spoken & very knowledgeable. Worked to explain all findings. Very clear explainations....... Roy Cox from Centerville, OH.
Ken,
I have never had a home inspection done before, but I would like to tell you that your thorough evaluation was appreciated and can give us peace of mind that you did not miss anything. I don't know if every inspection is this detailed and professional but I do know that you take pride in your job and seem to enjoy it. Thanks for the positive experience.
Have a great week,........ Zach Vargo from West Milton, OH..
I am a first time home buyer and Ken Chadwick did an outstanding home inspection. I thought I new most of the problems about the home but Ken was able to find a few more that I would have never been aware of. He did a very through job, answered all my questions, was very informative and seemed to be very knowledgeable about his profession. I felt it was an excellent service for the money and found myself asking over and over how is he making any money off me. We spent about 4 hours looking at the home and then he spent even more time producing a wonderful document to show his findings. I now have a binder, provided by him, that has all the information about the inspection and other tips and literature. Not sure you can find a better person to do a better job. Highly recommended................Justin Keller from Dayton, OH.
I have had inspections on a house before, and Ken Chadwick was by far the most thorough inspector i have seen. Ken was very professional and is clearly an expert in his field. I would recommend Ken to anyone who is looking for a quality inspection.
Pat Geddie................ Miamisburg OH.
Ken, thank you so very much for all of your assistance in helping me to complete the task of the Home Inspection for my property. It was a pleasure to do business with you. Your prompt, courteous and superbly professional performance gave me a great Peace of mind and satisfaction in knowing that I could trust you and accept your report with confidence. I will gladly make future referrals to you..........L. Million of Middletown, OH.
Ken arrived early, explained what he was going to do and then did a thorough job inspecting the house. Within 12 hours I had a detailed report stating his findings and recommendations. What more could you want? Excellent!.........Gary Leitzell................ Dayton OH.
Ken, You did an excellent job!! Definitely I will recommend you to others. Thanks a lot! Frank D............... Beavercreek, OH
Ken was great! I highly recommend his services. The inspection was very thorough and he made sure I understood everything. Adrienne S from Fairborn, OH..
What is a Home Inspection?
The Home Inspection Defined
A general home inspection is a visual inspection for system and major accessible component defects and safety issues. The inspection is not technically exhaustive. A "general home inspection" and a "home inspection" are the same thing.
A home inspection is designed to reflect, as accurately as possible, the visible condition of the home at the time of the inspection. Conditions at a home for sale can change radically in only a day or two, so a home inspection is not meant to guarantee what condition a home will be in when the transaction closes. It is not uncommon for conditions to change between the time of the inspection and the closing date.
It is a Visual Inspection
A Visual inspection means that a home inspection report is limited to describing conditions in those parts of a home that an inspector can see during the inspection. Obviously, parts of the home that are permanently hidden by wall, ceiling and floor coverings are excluded, but so are parts of the home that were inaccessible during the inspection for some other reason. Some reasons might include lack of an access point, such as a door or hatch, or a locked access point, or because an occupants belongings blocked access, or because of dangerous or unsanitary conditions.
There can be many more reasons. The point is that if an inspector can not see a portion of the home, the inspector can not assume responsibility for ensuring that a safe and proper condition exists or that systems are operating properly in that hidden space.
Safety
Safety can be a matter of perception. Some conditions, such as exposed electrical wiring, are obviously unsafe. Other conditions, such as the presence of mold, are not as clear-cut.
In the example of the possible existence of mold, it is difficult to accurately call it out during a general home inspection because mold sometimes grows in places where it can not be readily seen, such as inside walls, making its discovery beyond the scope of the inspection. Also, the dangers to human health are from the inhalation of spores from indoor air.
Most people with healthy immune systems have little or no problem with inhaling spores. A few people whose immune systems are compromised by lung disease, asthma or allergies can develop serious or even fatal fungal infections from mold spore levels that would not affect most people. Every home has mold and mold colonies can grow very quickly, given the right conditions. Mold can be a safety concern, but it often is not. The dangers represented by mold are a controversial subject. Other potential safety issues also fall into this category.
System Defects
Although the majority of the inspection is visual, the InterNACHI Standards of Practice do require inspectors to operate space and water heating equipment, and air-conditioning equipment, if it can be done without damaging the equipment.
Inspectors will also examine the major accessible components of certain systems as required by the Standards of Practice. Furnace air filters are one example.
A home inspection is not technically exhaustive, meaning that systems or components will not be disassembled as part of the inspection. For example, an inspector will not partially disassemble a furnace to more accurately check the condition of the heat exchanger. Inspectors typically disclaim heat exchangers.
Hazardous Materials
Asbestos, mold, lead, water purity, and other environmental issues or potential hazards typically require a specialist inspection, and may additionally require laboratory analysis.
Home Inspectors are Generalists
Home inspectors are not experts in every home system but are generalists trained to recognize evidence of potential problems in the different home systems and their major components. Inspectors need to know when a problem is serious enough to recommend a specialist inspection. Recommendations are often made for a qualified contractor, such as a plumber or electrician, and sometimes for a structural engineer.
Managing Expectations
Part of a home inspectors job is to manage the expectations of their client. This is especially true when a client has never dealt with a home inspector before. Explaining the limitations of a home inspection to a client will help them develop realistic expectations concerning what to expect from a home inspection report, and what lies beyond the scope of the inspection.
When a home buyer is interviewing inspectors, the buyer should ask about how the inspector handles special safety concerns.
Disclaimers are portions of an inspection agreement or report in which an inspector notifies the client that the inspector will not accept the responsibility for confirming the condition of a portion of the home or of a particular system or component.
Creating realistic expectations in a clients mind will help prevent misunderstandings and promote smooth real estate transactions.
Why do I need a home inspection?
A home purchase may be the largest investment of your life. Before you purchase the property you should learn as much as you can including what may need to be repaired.
A home inspection will also point out the positive aspects of a home, as well as required ongoing maintenance that will be needed to keep the property in good shape. By having a professional home inspector you will have a clear understanding of the home you are purchasing so you can make a confident decision.
A home inspection can also be valuable if you have owned your home for a long period of time.The inspection can identify potential problems and recommend solutions that will potentially save you a great deal of money in the future.
.A Typical Home Inspection Includes:
* Roof, vents, flashing, and trim.
* Gutters and downspouts
* Skylights, chimney and other roof penetrations
* Decks, steps, porches, walkways, and railing.
* Grading and drainage.
* Basement, foundation and crawlspace.
* Water penetration and foundation movement.
* Heating and cooling systems.
* Main water shut off valves.
* Water heating system.
* Interior plumbing fixtures and faucets.
* Drainage sump pumps with accessible floats.
* Electrical service line and meter box.
* Main disconnect and service amperage.
* Electrical panels, breakers and fuses.
* Grounding and bonding.
* Fireplace damper door and hearth.
* Insulation and ventilation.
* Garage doors, safety sensors, and openers.
And much more.
Home Inspection Report.
We provide a home inspection report describing the condition of the home. When problems are found we will recommend further evaluation or remedies.
What if the report reveals problems?
If a home inspection reveals problems it does not necessarily mean you should not buy the house. The home inspection is meant to educate you in advance of the purchase of the condition of the property.
Buying a home? The process can be stressful. A home inspection is supposed to give you peace of mind, but it often has the opposite effect. You will be asked to absorb a lot of information over a short time. This often includes a written report, checklist, photographs, environmental reports, and what the inspector himself says during the inspection. All this combined with the seller's disclosure and what you notice yourself make the experience even more overwhelming. What should you do?
Relax. Inspectors are professionals. Most of your inspection will be related to maintenance recommendations and minor imperfections. These are good to know about. However, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:
1.major defects: An example of this would be a structural failure;
2.things that lead to major defects: a small roof-flashing leak, for example;
3.things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home; and
4.safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel.
Anything in these categories should be addressed. Often, a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property (especially in categories 2 and 4).
Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn of defects uncovered during an inspection. Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report. No home is perfect. Keep things in perspective. Do not kill your deal over things that do not matter. It is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance, conditions already listed on the seller's disclosure, or nit-picky items.
Home Inspections for Home Sellers:
A professional home inspection is also very valuable for home sellers. By getting a home inspection before putting your house on the market you can get a better understanding of the condition of your home before putting up the "For Sale" sign. This will make the selling process easier.
Seller's Pre-Listing Inspection Eventually, your buyers are going to conduct an inspection. You may as well know what they are going to find by getting there first. Having an inspection performed ahead of time helps in many other ways:
1) It allows you to see your home through the eyes of a critical third party.
2) It helps you to price your home realistically.
3) It permits you to make repairs ahead of time so that ...
4) Defects won't become negotiating stumbling blocks later.
5) There is no delay in obtaining the Use and Occupancy Permit.
6) You have the time to get reasonably priced contractors or make the repairs yourself, if qualified. •It may encourage the buyer to waive the inspection contingency.
7) It may alert you to items of immediate concern, such as radon gas or active termite infestation.
8) It may relieve prospects' concerns and suspicions.
9) It reduces your liability by adding professional supporting documentation to your disclosure statement.
10) It alerts you to immediate safety issues before agents and visitors tour your home.
Copies of the inspection report, along with receipts for any repairs, should be made available to potential buyers.
Helpful Hints For Home Sellers To Make Home Inspections Go Smoother.
Helpful suggestions for Home Sellers so their home will be ready if they are having a Pre-Listing Home Inspection done or the Buyer is having the home inspected. These hints will speed up the inspection and may eliminate negotiating stumbling blocks at the time of closing.
(General)
1) If home is unoccupied or winterized, Make sure Water, Electric and Gas utilities are turned on before the inspection date. Please have pilot lights for furnace and water heater lit and turn on all plumbing shut off valves to sinks, toilets, water heaters and if outside temperature permits the outside water spigots.
2) Remove Dogs and or Cats before the time of the Inspection. Pets that are overly friendly or over aggressive can hamper the inspection.
(Exterior Areas)
3) Make sure garages, sheds, gates and outside crawspace or attic entrances are unlocked. (If crawspace entrances are hidden under porches or desks please leave their location written on an Information Sheet and place sheet on the kitchen counter).
4) Remove debris, fire wood, vegetation or stored items from around the foundations of all structures located on the property. Clinging vines should be removed and shrubs should be trimmed back at least 1 foot from the foundation and the outside walls to allow access. Remove debris from outside stair and window wells.
5) Replace any broken or burned out light bulbs on outside porch or driveway light fixtures. If any of these fixtures are broken or inoperable please replace.
6) Replace any broken or missing items such as chimney caps, gutters, downspouts, window panes and screens, doorknobs, latches or hinges on gates, handles on outside water spigots, etc.
(Interior Areas)
7) Remove stored items from around Electrical Service Panels, Furnaces, Water Heater and Water Meter to allow access. If Electrical Panels or water meter are hidden inside or behind cabinets please write their location on the Information Sheet that is on the kitchen counter.
8) Unlock any rooms, crawspace or attic hatches. Remove stored items from in front of or around these openings. If Crawspace or attic hatches are hidden in closets or under rugs please write their location on the Information Sheet.
9) Remove stored items from around the foundation walls in the basement areas and in the garage to allow access to these areas.
10) Replace any broken or burned out light bulbs to avoid a "Light Is Inoperable" notation on the Inspection Report which will suggest an electrical problem.
11) Remove any stored items from under kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow access to these areas.
12) Clean or replace dirty furnace air filters and make sure they are the correct size and that they fit properly.
13) Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace dead or weak batteries. Replace these units if they are defective or broken.
14) Replace any broken or missing items such as cabinet door knobs or drawer pulls, doorknobs, locksets or hinges, sink stoppers, shower heads, etc.
15) If you have had a Termite inspection or treatment, Heating and Air Conditioning service done in the last couple of years please leave any and all paperwork ( If available) out so Inspector can look at them and note them in his report.
16) If there are items that are broken or not working properly that you DO NOT want the Inspector to operate, please note these on the Information Sheet. Ex samples would be: Powered Attic Vent Fan smokes when turned on, Circuit Breakers are turned off for the Clothes Dryer due to electric short at the outlet or one window is binding and will not close if opened. Also note if you are in the process of having these items repaired or replaced.
If you follow all or just some of these suggestions it will make the Inspection process go much smoother and it will be greatly appreciated by the Buyer, Real Estate Agent and the Inspector.
Showing Your Home.
Taking the time to make your home look its best pays off. Sell your home for more and sell it more quickly by paying attention to these details...
1) Test all door and cabinet knobs. Replace mismatched or inexpensive hardware for a quick update. Buyers rarely can get beyond a knob that comes off in their hand as they attempt to use a door.
2)Take the time to paint walls, trim and ceilings. Keep adjoining rooms in one color palette, which will make your home appear larger. Clean up spills from messy painters. Hire professionals to paint mullions on windows and staircase spindles.
3) Slipcover mismatched furniture in a room that requires visual unification.
4)Discover ways to organize day-to-day room needs. Substantial wicker baskets or square stainless steel or brass containers can organize magazines, remote controls and toys. Books provide a good look, but vary them by laying some down and standing some up.
5) Wallpaper is considered fill-in-the-blank decorating. No two people have the same taste in this instant decorator wannabee. If it's more than three years old, take it down and paint in a neutral color. And wallpaper borders are out.
6) Simple furniture rearrangement can bring new life to a tired space. Float sofas and coffee tables away from walls for a designer look. Use area rugs to anchor furniture groupings on bare tile and wood floors. Place groupings of candles and clear glass bowls filled with natural potpourri, fresh fruit or glass crystals on side and coffee tables.
7) Make sure there is balanced lighting in every room for dusk and evening showings. Dimmers help set the right tone.
8) Polish and wax hardwood floors to brighten and blend an old finish.
• Clean every surface until it shimmers and shines. Clean can seal a deal. Don't forget the windows.
9) Purchase the best quality carpet pad which can make any new carpeting "cushy," and home buyers love cushy. Stay away from shag styles; buyers know it won't be around long in style cycles.
10) Streamline window fashions. Heavy drapes are in the minority. Think "let the light shine in" when placing blinds and shades. Light and bright can overcome other issues with a home.
11) Freshen-up closets with closet organizers to maximize storage space and paint a neutral, washable color. Make sure buyers can see the back of all closets and cupboards. Lighting is an often overlooked feature in closets, but buyers will always turn on lights when viewing a closet, big or small. Thinning closets, cabinets, basements, attics and garages will also help your storage spaces look larger. If you can't part with items, rent a storage locker to hold items for decision making later.
12) Don't forget the basement; dark, dirty and musty basements are a turn-off to buyers. Add extra lighting, paint the floor and vacuum out all the cobwebs. Organize storage areas and take the time to clean the washing machine and dryer. To spruce up the hot water heater and furnace, wipe down with a strong cleaner. Scrub the laundry tub and sweep left-over leaves out of exterior stairs and window wells. Run a dehumidifier to reduce basement moisture.
13) Take a good look from the street or road at the front of your home. Look for shrubs that are overgrown or dead and remove and replace them with shrubs or plants that are to scaled to your home. Small inexpensive bushes send the wrong message.
14) Limit yard ornaments to a favored few. Excess ornaments can make yards look busy and buyers might want them included in a purchase contract.
15) Paint and refresh yard lights, flagpoles, mailboxes, window boxes, fences and trellis. Don't forget the swing set or play equipment.
16)Replace broken bricks on terraces, cracked concrete patios and steps.
17)Restore screens on porches and lanai's. Dirty, rusty and ripped screens limit functionality to home buyers.
18)Don't leave pets unattended for property showings, especially if you think they could be aggressive or territorial around strangers.
19) Have carpets and area rugs cleaned before showing your home to potential buyers. Those allergic to animal dander and hair, even if they can't see your pet will know when their eyes and nose start to alert them to an allergic reaction. Many will not purchase a home that poses strong allergy issues.
20) A barking dog or overly-friendly cats can kill a showing. Be pro-active and take your pets off site for showings. Hire a dog walker to occupy pets if you can't be home.
21) Have your home pre-inspected and provide inspection reports for interested parties to take with them.
Radon Gas
The EPA Recommends:
1) If you are buying a home or selling your home, have it tested for radon.
2) For a new home, ask if radon-resistant construction features were used and if the home has been tested.
3) Fix the home if the radon level is 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.
4) Radon levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk, and in many cases, may be reduced.
5) Take steps to prevent device interference when conducting a radon test.
The EPA estimates that radon causes thousands of cancer deaths in the U.S. each year.
* Radon is estimated to cause about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year.
The numbers of deaths from other causes are taken from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 1999-2001 National Center for Injury Prevention and Control Report and 2002 National Safety Council Reports.
1. Why do you need to test for radon?
a. Radon has been found in homes all over the U.S.
Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water, and gets into the air you breathe. Radon typically moves up through the ground to the air above, and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon can also enter your home through well water. Your home can trap radon inside.
Any home can have a radon problem, including new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements. In fact, you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure at home. That is where you spend most of your time.
Nearly one out of every 15 homes in the United States is estimated to have an elevated radon level (4 pCi/L or more). Elevated levels of radon gas have been found in homes in your state.
b. The EPA and the Surgeon General recommend that you test your home.
Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. The EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon.
You cannot predict radon levels based on state, local, or neighborhood radon measurements. Do not rely on radon test results taken in other homes in the neighborhood to estimate the radon level in your home. Homes which are next to each other can have different radon levels. Testing is the only way to find out what your home's radon level is.
I'm buying a home. What should I do?
a. If the home has already been tested for radon...
If you are thinking of buying a home, you may decide to accept an earlier test result from the seller, or ask the seller for a new test to be conducted by a qualified radon tester. Before you accept the seller's test, you should determine the results of previous testing by finding out:
1) who conducted the previous test (the homeowner, a radon professional, or some other person);
2) where in the home the previous test was taken, especially if you may plan to live in a lower level of the home. For example, the test may have been taken on the first floor. However, if you want to use the basement as living space, test there, too;
3) what, if any, structural changes, alterations, or changes in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system have been made to the house since the test was done. Such changes may affect radon levels.
If you accept the seller's test, make sure that the test followed the Radon Testing Checklist.
If you decide that a new test is needed, discuss it with the seller as soon as possible.
b. If the home has not yet been tested for radon...
Make sure that a radon test is done as soon as possible. Consider including provisions in the contract specifying:
1) where the test will be located;
2) who should conduct the test;
3) what type of test to do;
4) when to do the test;
5) how the seller and the buyer will share the test results and test costs (if necessary); and
6) when radon mitigation measures will be taken, and who will pay for them.
Make sure that the test is done in the lowest level of the home suitable for occupancy. This means the lowest level that you are going to use as living space which is finished or does not require renovations prior to use. A state or local radon official or qualified radon tester can help you make some of these decisions. If you decide to finish or renovate an unfinished area of the home in the future, a radon test should be taken before starting the project, and after the project is finished. Generally, it is less expensive to install a radon-reduction system before (or during) renovations rather than afterward.
The numbers of deaths from other causes are taken from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 1999-2001 National Center for Injury Prevention and Control Report and 2002 National Safety Council Reports.
Radon Testing:
For this test the House has to have Closed-house conditions..
Closed-house conditions means keeping all windows closed, keeping doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and not operating fans or other machines which bring in air from outside. Fans that are part of a radon-reduction system or small exhaust fans operating for only short periods of time may run during the test.
Maintain closed-house conditions during he entire time of a short term test, especially for tests shorter than one week in length.
Operate the home's heating and cooling systems normally during the test. For tests lasting less than one week, operate only air-conditioning units which recirculate interior air.
Do not disturb the test device at any time during the test.
If a radon-reduction system is in place, make sure the system is working properly and will be in operation during the entire radon test.
Termite Inspection:
Wood destroying insects and other organisms can cause serious problems in the wood structural components of a house and may go undetected for a long period of time.
Termite Protection Plan
90-Day Trial Protection Period
The RWS Termite Protection Plan is offered by Residential Warranty Services, Inc., in cooperation with your Home
Inspector. For a period of 90 Days following the inspection, RWS will cover the cost to treat for new termite and
carpenter ant infestations in accordance with this policy. Thereafter, it is at the option of the policy holder to extend
this coverage at a monthly expense as low as $14.97, which will be offered by RWS to the policy holder prior to the expiration of the policy. Pricing varies by size of home and location.
The RWS Termite Protection Plan covers treatment as described herein. Anything not specifically described as covered is excluded.
This warranty applies only to the address listed on the limited warranty certificate, and only
covers treatments as described for the benefit of the party listed on the limited warranty certificate.
Your inspector has inspected the property noted on the limited warranty certificate, and has determined the
current status of wood destroying pests. A written report of those findings has been delivered to the policy holder.
During the 90-Day Protection Period (or as long as the policy is in place should the policy holder elect to extend the
coverage), if termites or carpenter ants are visually observed by the policy holder, RWS will pay the cost of having the
infestation treated, as deemed necessary by RWS, less a $250 deductible.
Coverage only applies to the treatment of termites and carpenter ants, excluding any Formosan species of termite,
powder post beetles, carpenter bees, or any other form of wood destroying insect/pest. This limited warranty applies
only to chemical treatment, as deemed necessary by RWS to properly control the applicable termites and carpenter
ants. If the structure cannot safely and effectively be treated in the opinion of RWS, RWS shall refund any and all fees
paid by the policy holder or pay the deductible of any other termite plan that may be in place, whichever is less.
The policy holder agrees to notify RWS by telephone and in writing of any potential infestation and allow a company
representative or representative of a pest control operator of RWS choosing access to the property to evaluate these
items prior to commencement of any corrective action. Any treatment or corrective action taken without informing
RWS will result in the policy holder being denied coverage for that infestation.
RWS is not responsible for fees associated with post treatment inspection. RWS does not cover the cost of baiting
systems or maintenance of baiting systems, or any infestation resultant from an inactive baiting system. This warranty
does not cover consequential and/or secondary damages; hidden, latent, or concealed damages; all cosmetic
damages and/or any damages visible or not visible at the time of the original inspection; infestations in structures
other than the primary dwelling; infestations in fences, barns, tool sheds or car ports; changes, alterations, remodeling
or additions made to the building after the date of the inspection; costs incidental to treatment such as storage costs
or hotel fees; damage resultant from an infestation.
Call 1-800-544-8156 to report an infestation.
RWS - P.O. Box 392 - Carmel, IN 46082 - Fax 877.307.7056
Residential Home Warranty
90 Day Limited Structural and Mechanical Buyer Home Warranty.
Provided by your Home Inspection Company with a Full Home Inspection (Buyers Full Home or Condo Inspections Only)
Mechanical Coverage Summary: Plumbing: Water lines, faucets, water heaters, drain lines, gas lines. Electrical: Main service panel, secondary service panel, and wiring. Appliances: Kitchen Appliances including and limited to oven, range, dishwasher, built-in microwave, trash compactor, and garbage disposal. Heating/Air (HVAC): Furnace, Air Conditioner, and Thermostats.
Structural Coverage Summary: Poured Concrete & Block Wall Foundations. Floor joists, bottom & top plates, and wall members. Roof leak repair (does not include replacement of bad shingles), load bearing walls, attached garage doors.
Coverage Terms
This service contract covers only those items specifically listed and excludes all others. This contract does not cover consequential or secondary damages. This contract only covers those items that were confirmed to be in good working order at time of inspection and excludes all others, regardless of their condition at the time of inspection or if they were repaired. This contract does not cover water damage, cosmetic repairs, or items that are inaccessible without the removal of drywall, concrete, or any other permanently installed covering. This is not a maintenance contract. In order for an item to be covered, it must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturers standards or be maintained within reasonable standards where no such standards exist. This contract excludes all appliances, climate control systems, and fixtures over 10 years old. This contract does not cover plumbing stoppages, regardless of reason. This contract does not cover well or septic systems or any related components. RWS is not responsible for upgrading failed systems to meet current codes or local ordinances. This contract does not cover chimneys, fireplaces, or brick failures of any kind. This contract does not cover cracking or scaling concrete. Roof repair is for leaks only, to rolled, composition, or asphalt shingle roof only, and is limited to the repair of the leak only. This contract does not cover pest damage, including that caused by any and all wood destroying insects and pests. All mechanical coverage is limited to those items within the homes foundation, and limited to an aggregate maximum of $500.00. All structural coverage is limited to issues within the home’s foundations and is limited to an aggregate maximum of $2000.00. RWS is not an insurer. Any damage caused by any peril is not covered by this contract, which includes but is not limited to; war, riot, civil commotion, earthquake, hurricane, any and all acts of god, or any other outside cause or neglect. All claims on this policy shall be made by the buyer of record only after they have taken possession of the home. All claims must be received within 90 days of the inspection or within 22 days of closing, whichever comes later. The coverage under this policy shall come after any and all other warranties in place.
Validating Your Home Warranty: It is important that we have your information prior to any claims being made. Please be sure to validate you home warranty at http://90daywarrantyvalidation.com within 15 days of your inspection with your name, the address of the property, and the name of your inspector.
Claims Procedures
Written Notification of claim must be received by RWS prior to the expiration of the policy (which is defined as noon, the 91st day after the inspection is completed). The following information must be contained in the claim:
a. Your Name
b. Name of your inspector
c. Your Full Address
d. A Phone Number Where You Can Be Reached
e. A Brief description of the Claim
2. An itemized repair estimate must be submitted for every approved claim, including the breakdown of parts & labor, as well as a specific cause for the failure in writing from a licensed or properly certified repair person. RWS reserves the right to request up to two (2) additional estimates. The estimate must include contact information for the repair person.
3. A copy of your home inspection must be submitted with the repair estimate, or at least those pages pertaining to the affected items.
4. Claims will be processed after we are in receipt of items 1,2, & 3. You will be contacted by a RWS representative within 72 hours of all items being submitted.
Residential Warranty Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 797
Carmel, IN 46082
800-544-8156
Fax 317-218-031b]
Recall Chek:
Since 1974, American citizens have been protected from dangerous items in their homes by law. If a manufacturer has designed a dangerous product, they MUST recall all those items and FIX THEM FOR FREE! (Buyers Full Home or Condo Inspections Only)
The problem in the law is that most often it is up to you, the consumer, to find out whether your appliances are potential fire or safety hazards!
There is a database online, but you would have to wade through 195 MILLION recalled items to find out if your dishwasher or air conditioner is a potential hazard.
As a result, many of these dangerous appliances are still in homes across America.
RecallChek is the first service for consumer recalls in the United States.
RecallChek has compiled over 195 million recalls from public records, and created a fail-safe system to check for dangerous flaws with home appliances.
How it works:
1) Your Home Inspector will copy the model numbers of your built-in home appliances and HVAC system.
2) The inspector will send us your recall Model Number Report. (Home inspectors are often NOT allowed to move appliances)
3) At RecallChek Headquarters, your model numbers are computer matched against MILLIONS of recalls using our Model Number Algorithm (MNA).
4) We then hand-check the report, to eliminate wrong numbers from worn plates and ID cards, and other problems.
5) In the event of a potential recall, RecallChek issues a report including:
A) the nature of the recall,
B) where the product was sold,
C) how to remedy the defect, and
D) how to get the item repaired / replaced most times absolutely FREE
We Service The Following Zip Codes in the following Counties in Ohio:
Ohio: Clark County
Catawba 43010
Donnelsville 45319
Enon 45323
Medway 45341
New Carlisle 45344
North Hampton 45349
South Charleston 45368
South Vienna 45369
Springfield 45501 45502 45503 45504 45505 45506
Tremont City 45372
Ohio: Greene County
Alpha 45301
Beavercreek 45431 45432 45433 45434 45435
Bellbrook 45305
Bowersville 45307
Cedarville 45314
Clifton 45316
Fairborn 45324
Jamestown 45335
Spring Valley 45370
Wilberforce 45384
Xenia 45385
Yellow Springs 45387
Ohio: Miami County
Bradford 45308
Casstown 45312
Conover 45317
Covington 45318
Fletcher 45326
Laura 45337
Ludlow Falls 45339
Piqua 45356
Pleasant Hill 45359
Potsdam 45361
Tipp City 45371
Troy 45373 45374
West Milton 45383
Ohio: Montgomery County
Brookville 45309
Clayton 45315
Dayton 45401 45402 45403 45404 45405 45406 45408 45409 45410 45412 45413 45414 45415 45416 45417 45418 45419 45420 45422 45423 45424 45426 45427 45428 45429 45430 45437 45439 45440 45441 45448 45449 45454 45458 45459 45463 45469 45470 45475 45479 45481 45482 45490
Englewood 45322
Farmersville 45325
Germantown 45327
Miamisburg 45342 45343
New Lebanon 45345
Phillipsburg 45354
Vandalia 45377
Ohio: Preble County ( Prices Maybe A Little More In This County)
Camden 45311
Eaton 45320
Eldorado 45321
Gratis 45330
Lewisburg 45338
New Paris 45347
Verona 45378
West Alexandria 45381
West Elkton 45070
West Manchester 45382
Ohio: Warren County
Franklin 45005
Springboro 45066
Services and Pricing:
Our Rates Are Based On The Following:
Square Footage Of The Home, How Many Garages Or Other Out Buildings Are On The Property, Heat Sources (Number of furnaces) and How Many Electrical Service Panels Or Sub-Panels There Are. Note: If there are only one of each of these items the pricing will be done by square footage only. Please Call For Pricing.
Services:
Residential Full Home Inspection: Includes Wood boring Insect Inspection, 90 Day Home Warranty, 90 Day Termite Warranty and Recall Chek.
Pre-Listing Full Home Inspection: Includes Wood boring Insect Inspection.
Condominiums Inspection (The interior Only): Includes 90 Day Home Warranty And Recall Chek.
Multi- Family Units Full Inspections, Up To Four Units: Includes Wood boring Insect Inspection.(No 90 Day Home Warranty, 90 Day Termite Warranty Or Recall Chek).
Partial Residential Home Inspections: (No Wood boring Insect Inspection, 90 Day Home Warranty, 90 Day Termite Warranty Or Recall Chek).
One of the following items:
Roof.
Electrical.
Foundation.
Exterior.
Interior Rooms, Kitchen & Bathrooms.
Package Deals:
Residential Home Inspection, Wood boring Insect Inspection, Radon Testing, 90 Day Home Warranty, 90 Day Termite Warranty and Recall Chek.
Method Or Payment:
All Fees Payable By Check, Cash or Money Order. All Pricing Is Subject To Change Without Notice.
$10 Discount For The Following Items: (For Home Inspections Only)
Member of AARP, Veterans or Military Service Personnel.
$10 Discount For Home Inspections Performed On Saturdays Or Sundays.
Reports provided by ReportHost, the premier web-based inspection report writing service. For more information visit: http://www.reporthost.com.
Copyright 2002-2012, All rights reserved