The Inspection
What Really Matters

A standard engineering inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and major interior
systems of a residential or commercial building. During an inspection, I will review the readily accessible
exposed portions of the structure of the home, including the roof, the attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows,
doors, basement, and foundation, as well as the heating/air conditioning systems, interior plumbing, and
electrical systems for potential problems. Engineering inspections are not intended to point out every
small problem or any invisible or latent defect in a home.  Most minor or cosmetic flaws should be
apparent to the buyer without the aid of a professional.  The issues you really need to know about will fall
into four categories:

  • Major defects.  An example of this would be a structural failure.
  • Things that lead to major defects.  A small roof-flashing leak, for example.
  • Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home.
  • Safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel.

There are other inspections and/or tests that can be performed in addition to engineering inspection, such
as lead paint, pests and wood destroying insects, air quality, and toxic mold.  

Timing of the Inspection

An inspector is typically hired by a potential home buyer right after the binding agreement is signed but
prior to executing the final contract.  However, before the buyer signs the agreement, he/she should be
sure that there is an inspection clause in the agreement making the purchase offer contingent upon the
findings of a professional home inspection.  

A current homeowner may also want to get a pre-listing Inspection to identify any problems, especially if
the owner plans to sell the home in the near future.

During the Inspection

While not necessary, it is recommended that the buyer be present for the inspection. This allows the buyer
to observe me as I perform the inspection, ask questions directly, and obtain a better understanding of the
condition of the home, how its systems work, if there are any problems, if repairs need to be done, and
whether further investigation is recommended and/or required.  At the conclusion of the inspection, I will
discuss with you my findings and will provide you with a preliminary inspection summary.  The
comprehensive computer-generated building inspection report, express-mailed to you within three
business days from the date of the inspection, may be easier to understand if the buyer was present
during the inspection.
Member of The National
Association of Certified
Home Inspectors
Grams Engineering
Gary Shed, P.E.       Licensed Professional  Engineer       Certified Home Inspector
Contact Me Now

Office 917.365.8398
Mobile 917.365.8398
shed_g@yahoo.com
Find more helpful information at www.nachi.org
All my clients, without
exception, receive
professional, personal,
courteous, and expedient
service.

Gary Shed, P.E.