Intake Brain — FAQ (60 items)
1. What is a home inspection?
A visual, non-invasive assessment of a home’s major systems and components with a written report.
2. What’s included in the inspection?
Structure, roof, exterior, interior, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and built-in appliances—conditions permitting.
3. What isn’t included?
Anything concealed or inaccessible; cosmetic issues; specialty testing unless added (e.g., radon, mold, sewer).
4. How long does an inspection take?
Typically 2–3 hours for a standard home; more for larger homes or when add-ons are included.
5. When will I get the report?
Usually the same day or within 24 hours, delivered digitally.
6. Who should attend?
Clients are welcome; agents too. Attendance isn’t required but helps for on-site Q&A.
7. Do you inspect condos or townhomes?
Yes—scope focuses on the unit’s systems and areas the owner is responsible for.
8. Do you inspect multi-family properties?
Yes—pricing and duration depend on the number of units and add-ons.
9. Do you inspect new construction or do phase inspections?
Yes—pre-drywall, final, and 11-month warranty inspections are available.
10. Do you inspect older or historic homes?
Yes—we note age-related considerations and recommend specialists where appropriate.
11. What packages do you offer?
We offer bundled options that combine the home inspection with popular add-ons at a discounted rate.
12. Can I customize a package or add services later?
Yes—you can add or remove services before the appointment; some add-ons can be added on site.
13. Do you offer pre-listing (seller) inspections?
Yes—great for revealing issues before you list and speeding up negotiations.
14. Do you offer re-inspections after repairs?
Yes—we can re-check specific items and document the results.
15. Do you offer walk-and-talk consultations?
Yes—informal, verbal assessments without a written report (availability may vary).
16. What is radon testing and do you offer it?
Yes—radon testing measures radioactive gas levels using a calibrated device over a set period.
17. Do you perform termite/WDI inspections?
Yes—available as an add-on; reports are suitable for most lenders.
18. Do you offer mold sampling/testing?
Yes—air or surface samples sent to a certified lab; results in a separate report.
19. Do you perform sewer scope inspections?
Yes—video inspection of the main sewer line to identify defects before closing.
20. Do you inspect pools, spas, or sprinklers?
Available in select areas; scope is visual and operational. Ask about availability when scheduling.
21. Is a detached garage included?
We can include it—let us know so we allocate time and pricing properly.
22. Can you inspect a guest house or ADU?
Yes—priced and scheduled as an additional unit.
23. Will you inspect a mother-in-law suite?
Yes—treated as an additional finished area or unit depending on setup.
24. Can you inspect a pole barn or other outbuildings?
Yes—add as an outbuilding so we include it in scope and timing.
25. Do you inspect roofs, crawlspaces, and attics?
Yes—when safely accessible and conditions permit; limitations will be noted.
26. What about septic or well systems?
We can coordinate specialized septic/well testing, or refer you to local specialists.
27. Do you inspect fireplaces and chimneys?
Basic visual checks are included; for internal flues we recommend a Level II chimney evaluation.
28. Do you test for lead paint or asbestos?
Not by default; specialized testing can be arranged through qualified labs.
29. Do you check for code compliance?
We report on condition and safety; code enforcement is outside a standard home inspection.
30. Do you offer energy audits or thermal imaging?
Thermal imaging is available in targeted areas to supplement findings.
31. How soon can I schedule?
Often within a few days—earlier if you’re flexible on time or location.
32. Do you work evenings or weekends?
Select evening and weekend slots are available depending on inspector schedules.
33. Can I request a specific inspector?
Yes—subject to availability and required certifications for your services.
34. How do you handle inspection-period deadlines?
Tell us your report-due date and we’ll prioritize slots that meet it.
35. Can you coordinate access with the listing agent or tenants?
Yes—we’ll reach out for access instructions once scheduled.
36. What if utilities are off?
Please ensure water, power, and gas are on; otherwise components may be marked “not tested.”
37. Which areas do you serve?
We cover a defined service area; share the address and we’ll confirm coverage.
38. Can you hold a tentative time?
Short holds may be possible; bookings are finalized once confirmed.
39. How far out are you booking right now?
It fluctuates—share your due date and we’ll offer the earliest qualifying slots.
40. Can multiple people attend or join by video?
Yes—on site or via a video call recap if needed.
41. How is pricing calculated?
Base price plus factors like size, age, and foundation; add-ons are priced individually or via packages.
42. Do square footage, age, or foundation affect price/time?
Yes—larger, older, or complex foundations generally require more time and cost.
43. Are add-ons (radon, WDI, sewer, mold) extra?
Yes—available à la carte or bundled in discounted packages.
44. Do you have package discounts?
Yes—bundles combine common services at a lower total price.
45. Do you charge travel fees outside the service area?
Possibly—distance-based fees apply for out-of-area inspections.
46. Do you require a deposit or prepayment?
Sometimes—certain services or time slots may require a deposit to hold.
47. What payment methods do you accept?
Major cards and most common digital methods; details provided at booking.
48. When is payment due?
Typically by the time of inspection or before report release.
49. How should the property be prepared?
Clear access to attic, crawlspace, electric panel, furnace, water heater, and sinks; unlock outbuildings.
50. Do you move personal items or appliances?
No—please ensure access; we don’t move owner belongings or dismantle systems.
51. What should I do with pets?
Secure pets for safety and to allow full access during the inspection.
52. Do I need all attic/garage/crawl areas clear?
Yes—blocked areas may be excluded or limited in the report.
53. Do I need to be there the whole time?
Not required—arrive near the end for a summary, or we can recap by phone/video.
54. What happens if it’s raining or snowing?
We inspect in most weather; certain exterior or roof items may be limited for safety.
55. How long will you be on site?
Most standard inspections take 2–3 hours; complex properties may take longer.
56. What will the Spectora report include?
Photos, notes, and recommendations organized by system with a summary of key items.
57. When and how will I receive the report?
A secure link via email/text—usually the same day or within 24 hours.
58. Can you walk me through the findings?
Yes—we’re happy to do a call or screen-share to discuss the report.
59. Can I share the report with my agent or seller?
Yes—you can forward the link or download a PDF for your records.
60. What is your reschedule/cancellation policy?
We offer flexible rescheduling; cancellations within a short window may incur a fee.
Do you offer package deals? Yes we offer a Standard Inspection that includes home and WDI, and premium that includes home, wdi, sewer scope, mold testing, and radon testing