Good questions, honest answers.

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of the home's heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; and the foundation, basement and structural components. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.

Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you'll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you 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. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence. If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Within a given area, the fee may vary depending on factors like the size of the house, its age, and optional services such as septic, well, or radon testing. Don't let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection, or in the selection of your inspector — the sense of security and knowledge gained is well worth it, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector's qualifications — experience, training, compliance with your state's regulations, and professional affiliations — as a guide.

Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

While it's not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

Experience and convenience. We've been doing this since 2000, our inspectors come from the trades, and we go out of our way to coordinate everything for the same visit. You get a thorough, easy-to-read report and a team that actually picks up the phone.

All of Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, plus everywhere in between. Our inspectors are based in different areas, so we cover a lot of ground.

Usually fast. We're open 7 days a week. Book online any time through our scheduler, or call us at (949) 481-2501 and we'll find a slot that works for you and your timeline.

It depends on the size, age, and condition of the home, but most residential inspections take a few hours. You're welcome to join us at the end so we can walk you through what we found.

Yes, that's kind of our thing. We coordinate add-on services so they happen at the same time, which makes life easier on you and your agent. If it's something we don't do in-house, we bring in a trusted partner.

We don't, and that's on purpose. We carry high-limit insurance and operate with integrity. If we ever make a mistake, we own it and take care of it directly, rather than pointing you to fine print.

Absolutely, it's a big part of what we do. Because our inspectors come from the trades, they know how to properly evaluate high-end finishes, systems, and construction.

We guarantee that you will receive your inspection report within 24–48 hours under normal circumstances. In the event the inspector needs to return to the property, the report may be delayed, but this will always be relayed to you beforehand. Reports are detailed, photo-rich, and built to be easy to read so you can make confident decisions about your transaction.

Of course. Agents book with us all the time. Just have them call or use the online scheduler, and we'll keep everyone in the loop.