Tips on Reading an Inspection Report
When interviewing a home inspector, ask the inspector what type of report format they provide. There are many report styles used by home inspectors, including the checklist, computer generated using inspection programs, and the narrative style. Checklist reports can often be difficult to read due to the need to refer back to the keyed pages. Simple computer generated reports are sometimes vague and lack detail. At All Season Home Inspections our printed narrative reports are detailed, specific to the home being evaluated and easy to read and understand.

If needed your report can often be delivered to you via E-mail within 24 to 48 hours after the inspection with copies forwarded to anyone else you request. Hard copies will also be sent to you via the U.S. Mail.

The most important issue with an inspection report is the descriptions given for each item or component. A report that indicates the condition as "Good", "Fair" or "Poor" without a detailed explanation is vague and can be easily misinterpreted. An example of a vague condition would be:

Kitchen Sink: Condition - Good, Fair, or Poor.

None of these descriptions gives the homeowner an idea about what is wrong. Does the sink have a cosmetic problem? Does the home have a plumbing problem? A good report should supply you with descriptive information on the condition of the site and home. An example of a descriptive condition is:

Kitchen sink: Condition - Minor wear, heavy wear, damaged, rust stains, or chips in enamel finish. Recommend sealing sink at counter top.

As you can see, this narrative description includes a recommendation for repair. Narrative reports without recommendations for repairing deficient items may be difficult to comprehend, should your knowledge of construction be limited.

Our reports include photographs and diagrams to help you understand and remember any issues with the house. This will also provide a visual reference for any third parties who help in the transaction, such as attorneys. In addition they help in locating and maintaining any systems in the house that need regular upkeep, such as furnace filters or water heaters.

At the end of the inspection your inspector will provide a summary of the general condition of the home. Use this opportunity to ask questions regarding terms or conditions that you may not be familiar with. A good inspector will explain the answers to your questions.

We recommend that you accompany your inspector through the inspection if possible. This helps you to understand the condition of the home and the details of the report.

Read the report completely and understand the condition of the home you are about to purchase. If there is any part of the report that you are not clear on you should not hesitate to call so that we may help you with any and all questions. After all, it is most likely one of the largest investments you will ever make, and we know that.