NPI professionals are trained to perform an unbiased, visual home or commercial property inspection. The inspectors assess the home or commercial building from roof to foundation to identify safety issues and describe the current conditions on the property. Your inspector will walk you step-by-step through significant findings. Following the inspection, you will receive an easy-to-read, thorough report for your records. This can assist you in purchase negotiations, warranty repairs or when making future maintenance decisions.
We encourage you to allow time to attend at least the final portion of the inspection. This allows us to walk through the home with you, pointing out findings and explaining elements of the report. Following is a short description of some of our inspection services:
- Homebuyer’s pre-closing inspections
Sometimes referred to as a "general home inspection," these are booked prior to closing on either brand new or existing housing. The inspection covers hundreds of components in the home and includes a written report clearly outlining safety concerns and the current condition of the home. The report gives buyers the information they need to make the best decision and prepare for future maintenance.
- Homeseller’s pre-listing inspections
A general home inspection completed prior to listing or selling the home to give current owners an idea of maintenance items to address. A pre-listing inspection also helps inspire confidence in prospective buyers regarding the condition of the home and reduce time spent in contract negotiation because an unbiased, independent inspector has reviewed all major systems.
- New construction phase/draw inspections
These inspections are completed for home owners or construction lenders during the construction process. NPI inspects the home at various stages in the building process as part of the quality assurance checks or to allow for the release of the next phase of funding. Timing and reports for these inspections are customized to fit the needs of the client.
- Commercial building inspections
Many times commercial buyers will purchase property unseen. A property inspection helps determine the current condition and potential maintenance or safety issues. NPI can provide formal bidding documents or a one-on-one approach. Our typical commercial inspections are in general accordance with ASTM E 2018 standards. Following the inspection, NPI will provide a written report, complete with photos, documenting all major building systems, components and conditions.
- New home builder’s warranty inspections
Most brand-new home builders provide homeowners with a 12-month Builder’s Warranty. Ordering an inspection before the warranty expires gives the homeowner a professionally-prepared report to go over with the builder addressing possible issues. If repairs are not needed, it provides peace of mind regarding the quality of the new home.
- Employee relocation home inspections
Time is generally of the essence when a family is relocated for business purposes. Prior to beginning negotiations for purchase of a home, relocation companies generally order a home inspection to determine the need for repair and maintenance.
- Radon screenings
Radon gas is the leading cause of lung cancer among non smokers. The Surgeon General recently recommended that all homes be tested for radon. Greg Owens is licensed to perform radon testing in the State of Illinois. He uses continuous radon monitors that give an instant readout at the end of the testing period. Testing should be performed to keep you and your family safe from this dangerous gas.
- Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging combines technical knowledge with specialized equipment as part of a home inspection to help identify problems “trapped” in the walls or ceilings. Temperature changes across surfaces as “read” by the infrared camera and interpreted by the inspector along with other clues can indicate:hot spots in wiring, areas of missing or reduced insulation and moisture from water leaks. For more details on the technology, possible benefits and types of inspections offered, please call Greg Owens.
- Maintenance Inspections
Home inspections are not just for home buyers and sellers. A residential maintenance inspection by a qualified professional provides valuable information about the condition of your home. A home inspector can not only identify current problems, but also make suggestions for repairs and preventative measures for potential problems. Maintaining the good condition of your home ensures you of a safe and comfortable residence for many years. It's the best way to protect your investment.