A home inspection is a thorough examination of the home. It is very similar to getting a physical examination. Every room in the house is examined. The mechanical systems are examined, and most of the appliances are operated. All accessible areas of the home, such as the crawl spaces, the attic and roof are also inspected. They are checked for structural concerns, as well as for signs that the house is functioning properly. The heater will be run and checked. The air conditioner will be run and checked in warm weather. The plumbing fixtures are checked. The main electrical box is examined and the accessible receptacles and switches checked. During our home inspection, ten pages of items are checked, observed, or operated. Literally hundreds of observations and evaluations are made about the house. Some of these notes will give you a record of what materials are present, some will grade the operation of systems, and some will let you plan on what will need replacing.

A thorough home inspection on the average home will take 2 1/2 to 3 hours. An average home would be three to four bedrooms, and 2,000 to 2,500 square feet. If the home is newer, it sometimes takes less time, if it is older, (over sixty years old), it will definitely take longer. During the home inspection you will learn where all the shut offs are for the major systems such as plumbing, electrical, and heating. You will also get operating tips on various systems that can save you money and possibly save your life. It is a great opportunity to spend about three hours looking in every corner of the home. You won't be hurried or feel pressured by the inspector. When preparing for your home inspection it's a good idea to write down all your questions about the home before the inspection, so the inspector can answer them during the inspection. It is also a good idea to take notes. Many buyers use this opportunity to take pictures of each room, to measure the rooms, and to plan their floor plans.

After an inspection with Blue Bell Consulting, Inc., your ten page report will be faxed or emailed  the next day. A report in PDF format can also be available immediately when the inspection is finished.  Also included is a 300 page manual that tells you how the home should work. It covers in great detail everything you will find in a home. You will have a seasonal check list that tells you how to maintain your home. Also included is a list telling you about how long items in the house last and approximately how much they cost to replace. You will also have Blue Bell Consulting, Inc as a resourse to call in the future if you are having work done. Call us, fax us, or e-mail us before future home projects, and we will be glad to advise you on your project. In summary, getting a home inspection is a great start towards peace of mind with your new home.