Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When can I expect my report?
A: With the rarest of exceptions our reports are always delivered to our clients the same day as the inspection. We understand real estate transactions are more often than not subject to strict deadlines. Do to this, it is our goal to provide you with your report as soon as possible. Giving you the most time possible to study the report, review with your agent and get any questions you may have from us answered. In the event that something prevents us from providing you with your report the same day our inspectors will be sure to clear this delay with you at the time of the inspection. Bottom line, to date we have never failed to provide a report to our client on the same day as the inspection.
Q: Do you get on roofs?
A: Yes! And No... Our wish is that we can get up onto every roof every time. After all, we understand that the roof of your new home is one of the most important things we inspect. It is also one of the biggest regular maintenance or replacement items you will deal with over the course of your ownership. The reality is simple though, safety first. All of our inspectors are trained to walk on every roof possible. There are many limiting factors which often make walking on roofs not possible. These factors include, but are not limited to: The age, condition, material, slope and coverings such as moss, moisture and snow. At Buyer's Edge we have developed several guidelines that our inspectors follow. Our inspectors never walk tile, wood and typically not metal roofs. This is due to the fact these materials are usually easily damaged and also can be slippery do to their nature. For common asphalt roofs our inspectors have a wide range of factors to take into consideration. As a general rule we do not require our inspectors to walk roofs with a pitch greater than 6/12. Often times even roofs with less pitch can present hazards which prevent our inspectors from getting on them. Yet, many times we are able to safely get on roofs with pitches greater than 6/12. Coverings such as moss, rain and predominantly snow also often limit our ability to inspect roofs. At the end of the day our inspectors are trained to make decisions every day when it comes to whether or not they can safely get onto your roof. We know they will make every attempt possible to perform the most complete inspection and therefore we always stand by their decision as to whether it is safe or not. In the event we are unable to safely access your roof we carry many tools which aid us in still performing a complete inspection including binoculars and drones!
Q: Do you inspect a/c units?
A: We do always perform visual inspections of a/c units and their components. During summer months, with little exception, we are also able to run units and test output temperatures to ensure proper working order. While our inspections are limited to visual and simple performance testing, as we do not carry specialized equipment, we are typically able to make a good assessment of the unit. The biggest limiting factor we face with a/c units is the temperature. Running a/c units during winter months is not possible. This is do to the refrigerant inside the units becoming thick when cold. Turning on units during this time would likely cause damage to even brand new units. Do to this we have a simple rule which all our inspectors follow. Exterior temperatures must be above 65 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of 48 hours prior to the inspection before we run units.
Q: What kind of radon testing equipment do you use.?
A: We use electronic radon testing equipment. Our testing equipment provides accurate readings by the hour. This is important to provide our clients with the best possible information about a serious health hazard.