Wells Inspection Services, Inc.

What is a Home Inspection?

A successful home inspection is a communication process.

Our goal is to communicate as much information as possible regarding a property in an expedient and thorough manner. It is also a discovery process which is interactive and can be educational for the client. Clients are encouraged to attend the inspection, ask questions and actively participate in the process. In this way we can gain an understanding about any potential concerns the client has about the property and together resolve or find perspective and direction regarding these issues. If properly performed, a home inspection can diffuse many emotions such as anxiety or fear regarding a purchase and is usually fun.

What if You Are Not Able To Attend the Inspection?

Communicate your concerns.

Each buyer or owner has had different past experienced and different concerns or priorities. If it is not possible for you to be present during the inspection then it is helpful for us to be aware of your concerns or priorities prior to performing the inspection. Email is an expedient means of communicating with us and feel free to use either of the email addresses listed on the Home page. We are always available after an inspection to discuss the report or specific questions which result from the report.

What is a typical onsite inspection routine?

We have developed a routine (or protocol) over the years in inspecting thousands of homes that is designed to reduce inefficiencies in onsite time and to ensure that we remain focused in providing you the most thorough and comprehensive inspection as possible. When we meet onsite we generally review our game plan and set priorities. We start exterior with an analysis the site slopes, vegetation and drainage characteristics. Exterior drives, walkways, retaining walls and exterior fixtures are viewed as they may relate to the house. The house is circled several times viewing foundations, exterior walls, widows and doors and lower roof components. Locations of exterior HVAC and electrical components are noted and specifications data recorded. We use tape recorders and a digital camera. We often mark areas in need of repair as we go with blue masking tape or pink surveyors tape. The roof is mounted (with very few exceptions) and viewed; group participation is not encouraged during this part of the inspection.  The interior areas are viewed in the following order: main level, second level or basement, attic, and crawlspace areas last. We start at the front door with left-to-right routines inspecting and testing equipment and appliances as we encounter them. We run water through all plumbing fixtures as we inspect them and look for symptoms of moisture above and below. Lights are placed on all walls and ceilings looking for symptoms of movement or past repairs on surfaces. Gas furnaces, ovens and gas log fireplaces are activated and tested with Bacharach II carbon monoxide analyzers for possible improper combustion. Moisture meters are used in probing any interior  water spots and occasionally to monitor moisture content in crawlspace and basement areas. We then have a brief summary session if our client or their agent is present to review the major findings upon completion. The report and attached summary pages are normally ready for transmittal in two business days following the inspection.

What is NOT inspected?

We do not inspect septic systems nor do we test water quality. We do not test security systems, landscape watering systems, emergency back-up generator systems, home network wiring, phone or cable TV wiring, spas, swimming pools or comparable specialty equipment and fixtures. We are not termite inspectors (although we do look for insect damage). All items not specifically covered by the inspection are noted in the North Carolina Licensing Board Standards as listed on the back of our contract and at WWW.NCDOI.COM/OSFM