What is a HomeXray^SM?
A HomeXray^SM is a scan of your home using a special infrared thermal imaging camera.  This infrared (IR) camera detects very small temperature variations in your home’s components, even in hidden areas such as behind the walls, above the ceiling and beneath the floors.  These very minor temperature differences often reveal ‘invisible’ problems which cannot be seen with the naked eye, and would not be found with just a traditional home inspection.  Some people refer to this technology as "seeing through walls" or "X-ray Vision".  While neither of these analogies are technically correct, in many cases a HomeXray^SM can help the Inspector "see" problems that would otherwise not be visible.

Why do I need a HomeXray^SM?
A HomeXray^SM takes your home inspection to the next level!  While a good home inspector can detect a wide variety of problems without "seeing inside the walls", a standard home inspection has limitations because it's a visual inspection.  A HomeXray^SM is an inexpensive, non-invasive and non-destructive method of finding hidden problems that would otherwise go undetected.  Often times, a HomeXray^SM can find a problem in its early stages before there are visible symptoms, making it easier and less expensive to repair.  Much like a medical x-ray can help a doctor to diagnose a problem inside your body without doing exploratory surgery, a HomeXray^SM is a quick and painless way to find certain types of problems that can be hidden within your home’s walls, floors and ceilings.  But even a HomeXray^SM has limitations, and it takes much more than a special IR camera to "see through walls".  Just like it takes a trained Radiologist to properly interpret your medical x-ray, it takes a trained Thermographer to properly interpret your HomeXray^SM.  Rest assured that when you order a HomeXray^SM from Homewerx, your Inspector is also a trained, experienced and Certified Thermographer.

The U.S. Dept. of Energy recommends having an infrared scan done before purchasing a home because even new houses can have defects in their thermal envelopes.

This HomeXray^SM of a ceiling reveals an area with no insulation.         
 

What types of problems can a HomeXray^SM reveal?
A HomeXray^SM can find several different types of hidden problems, including:

• Plumbing leaks, moisture intrusion and water damage
• Missing insulation and energy loss
• Heating, cooling and ventilation problems (HVAC), including ductwork leaks
• Roof leaks, structural issues and foundation cracks
• Faulty wiring, breakers and fuses 
• Pests such as termites, rats and mice

Is a HomeXray^SM part of a Home Inspection?
A HomeXray^SM is not included with your home inspection - it's an additional service.  You can order a HomeXray^SM by itself, or with a home inspection.  You may also choose to have a HomeXray^SM of your entire house, or we can do a HomeXray^SM of one specific area where you suspect a problem.  It's up to you!  Of course, you can save money when you order both a home inspection and a HomeXray^SM at the same time!

Do I get a report with my HomeXray^SM?
Yes!  The Inspector also prepares a comprehensive, typewritten report which explains the results of your HomeXray^SM and includes several color photos.  The report is EASY-TO-READ and understand and contains maintenance advice plus other helpful homeowner information.  Reports are usually emailed the next day, but can also be delivered by fax or regular mail.

How much does a HomeXray^SM cost?
The price of a HomeXray^SM depends on several factors:  the size of your home, whether you want a HomeXray^SM of the entire house or just a certain area, and whether you order your HomeXray^SM with a home inspection or by itself.  But for a limited time, when you order a home inspection from Homewerx, you can get a HomeXray^SM for an additional fee of:

Order your HomeXray^SM today!
 

(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!

*IMPORTANT NOTE:  $149 HomeXray^SM offer is good only on homes that are 3000 square feet or smaller, and requires the purchase of a Home Inspection at regular price.  The HomeXray^SM must be performed at the same time as the Home Inspection or additional trip charges may apply.  No other discounts or offers may be used in conjunction with this offer.  This price is offered for a limited time only and may end without notice.

ATTENTION: REALTORS, SELLERS & BUYERS!

Beginning September 25^th, Homewerx Home Inspections will be offering Arizona Disclosure Reports.  Under a new Arizona law (H.B. 2779) effective September 21^st, sellers and listing agents can greatly reduce their liability for disclosures by obtaining a "disclosure report" prepared by a third-party provider.  To qualify, the disclosure report must must be based on officially adopted governmental maps, and must include disclosures on the following 9 conditions:

1. Special Flood Hazard Areas
2. Military Airports or Ancillary Military Facilities
3. Military Training Routes
4. Public or Private Airports
5. Expansive Soils
6. Soils Subject to Fissures
7. Special Tax Assessment Areas
8. Radon Gas Potential Zones
9. Environmental Hazard Superfund Sites

While it is not mandatory, it is recommended that all sellers provide these reports to their buyers.  However, disclosure reports are also available to buyers if the seller or builder does not provide one.

It's important to understand that the Arizona Disclosure Report does NOT replace the Seller's Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS) or other disclosures the seller is required to make!  However, the new Arizona Disclosure Report contains information in 9 areas that sellers don't usually know much about.  The new law basically says that if they obtain one of the new third-party disclosure reports, sellers & their agents will not be held liable for errors or ommissions in the disclosure report, unless they know the report to be incorrect and fail to disclose the correct information.  In other words, the liability for the disclosure of those items is shifted from the seller/agent to the third-party provider of the disclosure report.

EDR-Certified!!!   Arizona Disclosure Reports are available for as little as $89.00, so there's no reason to assume unnecessary liability when selling or listing a home!

Arizona Disclosure Report - $89.00 (Available in Maricopa & Pima County only)
(Sample AZ Disclosure Report)
This report discloses whether any of the 9 conditions listed above are known to be present within 300 feet of the property.  This report meets the minimum requirements of Arizona's new disclosure law.

Neighborhood Environmental Report - $129.00  (Available in all AZ counties!)
(Sample Neighborhood Environmental Report)
If you order the Neighborhood Environmental Report, you will receive BOTH the Arizona Disclosure Report and the Neighborhood Environmental Report.  In addition to disclosing whether any of the 9 conditions listed above are known to be present within 300 feet of the property, this report covers a much broader geographical area and also discloses known/potential contamination sites beyond 300 feet. Certain hazards are disclosed in this report if they're within a mile of the property (see distances below). This report also contains additional information that the Arizona Disclosure Report does NOT contain, such as whether there are any known meth labs in the area.  Below is a list of the types of known/potential contamination sites disclosed in the Neighborhood Environmental Report:
1.  Leaking underground tanks (within 1/2 mile)
2.  Landfills (within 1/2 mile)
3.  EPA Final Superfund sites (within 1 mile)
4.  Water Quality Assurance Revolving Priority Fund Sites (within 1 mile)
5.  EPA Proposed Superfund Sites (CERCLIS) (within 1/2 mile)
6.  Arizona Superfund Program Sites (within 1 mile)
7.  State Hazardous Waste Sites (within 1 mile)
8.  Hazardous Waste Treatment Storage & Disposal Sites (within 1/2 mile)
9.  Clandestine Drug Lab Sites (within 1/8 mile)
10. CDC Environmental Health Assessments (within 1/4 mile)
11.  Active Department of Defense Sites (within 1/4 mile)
12.  Former Department of Defense Sites (within 1/4 mile)
13.  Manufactured Gas Plants (within 1/4 mile)
14.  Radioactive Material Activity Sites (within 1/4 mile)

Commercial Disclosure Reports also available - Please call for pricing and other details.

For more information on the new law, read this article, "New Arizona Disclosure Reports Reduce Seller & Agent Liability".

Call today!

(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Order Online!

NOTE:  Homewerx Home Inspections offers Arizona Disclosure Reports and Neighborhood Environmental Reports in cooperation with third-party provider, Environmental Data Resources, Inc. (EDR), a national provider of environmental information.

Broken roof tiles can cause water infiltration and damage to the felt underlayment, and will eventually lead to leaks.  Therefore, homeowners should have a roof inspection annually, and any broken tiles detected should be replaced right away.  Broken roof tiles are commonly found on homes of all ages, even brand new homes.

Broken roof tiles are relatively inexpensive to replace if there are only a few.  However, you should always hire a professional both for the inspection and the repairs.  Walking on a tile roof can easily cause cracked tiles and is not recommended unless you are experienced.

Call for an inspection today!

(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

This is a picture of a license plate that is being used to extend the valley flashing off the roof.  Homeowners that perform improper and amateur repairs such as this one are just asking for trouble.  Roof flashings on a tile roof are the most vulnerable areas and are usually where leaks will develop.  Problems with roof flashings are commonly found in all types of houses, even in brand new homes.

Call for an inspection today!

(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

Settlement cracks, like the one in the top of this masonry arch, are an indication of structural movement.  Often times they are a result of normal settling and age.  However, these cracks could also be a sign of a more serious structural problem.  The only way to determine if there is an underlying structural problem is to have the cracks in your home evaluated by a professional.

Call for an inspection today!

(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

As we get into the 100+ degree temperatures, the efficiency of your home's cooling system becomes of the utmost importance.  Your air conditioner or heat pump is usually the most expensive appliance in your home, not only in terms of initial cost, but also when it comes to maintenance cost and energy use.

To maintain comfort in your home and to keep your cooling unit working at peak efficiency, you should:

• have your air conditioner or heat pump serviced annually by a qualified professional
• change your air filters at least once per month (yes - every month!)
• keep at least 90% of all your home's air vents open to avoid creating a pressure imbalance
• clean any debris or obstructions near the outdoor components of your cooling system to improve cooling efficiency

In many cases, it makes alot of sense financially to replace an older cooling system even if it still works just fine.  This is because newer cooling units are much more energy efficient than older ones.  Therefore, the money you save in electric bills will pay for the cost of the new unit in a fairly short time.  It obviously depends on how long you plan to keep your home.  If your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 10 years old and you plan to keep your home for several years, you should definitely consider a newer, more efficient cooling system.

One or more of the warning signs below could indicate that your cooling system may soon be due for repair or replacement:

• Your cooling system makes excessive noise
• Your air conditioner or heat pump turns on and off frequently
• You notice some rooms are colder than desired, or hotter than desired
• Your electricity usage increases
• You notice excessive dust in your home
• Your cooling system requires frequent repair
• Your cooling system is more than 10 years old

Hope this information helps you and your family stay cool this summer.  Remember, if you have any type of problem in your home, Homewerx Home Inspections can help!  We do homeowner maintenance inspections and special inspections, in addition to many other services.

Call today for more information
or to schedule your inspection!

Valleywide (480) 503-2611
Toll free: 1-888-THE-WERX

An Air Duct Inspection is a visual inspection of the inside of your air ducts.  For this type of inspection, the inspector uses a specially designed video camera which can be extended up to 100 feet inside the air ducts.  The inspector and client can then view the inside of the air ducts on a small TV monitor.  This type of Air Duct Inspection is helpful in identifying conditions that affect both your cooling system's efficiency and your family's health.  Some conditions that can be diagnosed by an Air Duct Inspection are:

• Dirt or mold in the air ducts
• Dead animals, trash or other obstructions in the air ducts
• Cracks or other openings/penetrations in the air ducts

Cracks in the air ducts are of particular concern in homes with a sub slab return system because these types of cracks can increase the potential for high levels of radon gas.

The cost for this type of Air Duct Inspection is:

• $300 by itself, or
• $200 if you get an Air Duct Inspection in conjunction with a home inspection or other service

For an additional fee, the client may purchase a copy of the Air Duct Inspection on a VHS video tape, or on a DVD.

...Because an Ounce of Inspection is Worth a Pound of Repair!

Valleywide Service, 7 Days a Week!

Call Today
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

A Sewer Inspection is a visual inspection of the inside of the sewer pipe using a specially designed video camera.  The camera is on the end of a sewer "snake" which can be inserted up to 100 feet into the sewer pipe.  The inspector and the client can then view the inside of the sewer pipe on a small TV monitor.  There are several reasons one might need this type of Sewer Inspection:

• to look for roots or other obstructions in the sewer piping
• to identify broken or collapsed pipes
• to verify the sewer is in and connected

The cost for this type of Sewer Inspection is:

• $300 by itself, or
• $200 if you get a Sewer Inspection in conjunction with a home inspection or other service

For an additional fee, the client may purchase a copy of the Sewer Inspection on a VHS video tape, or on a DVD.

...Because an Ounce of Inspection is Worth a Pound of Repair!

Valleywide Service, 7 Days a Week!

Call Today
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

More information on Roof Inspections is coming soon!

Until then, please call for prices, scheduling and other details!

(480) 503-2611
or 1-888-THE-WERX

Homewerx Home Inspections Now Offers Commercial Property Inspections!

• Offices
• Retail Space
• Apartment Complexes
• Other Commercial Properties

You name it, we inspect it!

Since each commercial property is unique, please call for a price quote.

...Because an Ounce of Inspection is Worth a Pound of Repair!

Valleywide Service, 7 Days a Week!

Call Today
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

Even if you don't drink your tap water, it's important to know what's in the water you use for cooking, bathing, washing clothes & dishes, etc.  Arizona is known for it's "hard water", but your water may contain more than just minerals.  The only way to know for sure what's in your water is to have it tested.

Homewerx Home Inspections offers the following Water Tests:

Water Test: Level I - $150*
This is a Bacteria Test which includes Total Coliform & E. Coli

Water Test: Level II - $249*
This is a Chemical/Bacteria/Lead Test which includes:

• Bacteria (Total Coliform & E. Coli), Lead, Nitrate, Nitrite, Total Nitrate/Nitrite, PH, Iron and Turbidity

Water Test: Level III - $299*
This is a Complete Water Analysis which includes:

• Alkalinity, Bacteria (Total Coliform & E. Coli), Lead, Nitrate, Nitrite, Total Nitrate/Nitrite, Clarity, Chlorine, Color, Copper, Hardness, PH (Acidity) and Iron

...Because an Ounce of Inspection is Worth a Pound of Repair!

Valleywide Service, 7 Days a Week!

Call Today
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

* NOTE: Above prices are for Water Quality Tests performed in conjunction with a home inspection or other service.  If Water Quality Test is done by itself, add $50.

More information on Mold Testing & Indoor Air Quality is coming soon!

Until then, please call for prices, scheduling and other details!

(480) 503-2611
or 1-888-THE-WERX

Lead can sometimes be present in paint, dust or soil.  The only way to know for sure whether or not lead is present is to test for it.  This is done by taking a sample of the paint, dust or soil and sending it to a laboratory for evaluation.  Lead-Based Paint Testing is generally performed in homes and other properties that were built prior to 1978.

The cost of testing paint, dust or soil for lead is:

• $200 per sample (no minimum), or
• $150 per sample if done in conjunction with a home inspection or other service

To identify the presence of lead in water, you will need a Water Quality Test (Level II or Level III).

...Because an Ounce of Inspection is Worth a Pound of Repair!

Valleywide Service, 7 Days a Week!

Call Today
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

Or Schedule Online!

There are many methods that can be employed to reduce radon levels should your home test above the EPA's action level of 4 piccocurries per liter of air (pCi/L).  Those methods can include crawl space ventilation, vapor barriers and sub-slab depressurization systems to name a few.  The method used (and the costs involved) will be determined by the radon level and the type of construction of the house.  Please remember that all houses are different and the approach used to reduce radon levels should be determined by the specific conditions of the house.

The most common type of construction we see in the Phoenix area is slab on grade foundations.  However, some of the older homes and manufactured homes in the valley have crawl spaces.  Some slab on grade houses have the return air ducts for the HVAC system located beneath the slab floor and can be an entry point for radon.  A house with below slab return ducts will most likely require a different approach to radon mitigation then a house without these ducts.  High vacuum pressures can be generated in below slab ducts that can result in radon laden soil gasses being drawn in and circulated throughout the home by the heating and cooling system.  For more information on mitigating radon in houses with below slab ducts visit the Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency.

However, for most slab on grade homes, a soil depressurization system will be used.  This type of system consists of 4 inch piping and a ventilation fan (see pictures above).  The pipe penetrates the concrete floor and is exposed to the soil beneath the house.  A depressurization fan installed in the vent pipe creates a vacuum and draws the radon into the venting system.  This pipe is then routed above the roof line where radon gasses can be safely vented.  This type of system can be contained inside the wall structures of the house or installed on the exterior of the house.

As with any mitigation system, it is recommended that a qualified contractor be consulted and radon testing be conducted before and after the installation of any product to insure that radon levels have been reduced.

If you are in need of a radon test, give us a call at:

(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX

Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!

We are still working on this blog so we're sorry in advance for anything that may seem confusing or features that are not yet working!  Many feature are working, however, so take a look around...you will find useful, interesting information about your home. 

Thanks for visiting and be sure to come back soon!

If you have a question relating to home inspections, you may ask it by using the 'Comments' below.  Keep in mind that anything you post in the 'Comments' will become a permanent part of this blog.  If you have a more personal question that you do not want published, you may email me your question instead.

Your question will be answered within 48 hours.  If you email your question, the answer will be emailed to you.  If you post your question in the Comments, the answer will be posted in the Comments.  Please understand that I cannot always answer your question definitively without actually seeing and inspecting the condition you are asking about, but I will do my best!

You are always welcome to call my office with any questions or concerns.  My contact information is below.  Have a great day, and remember...an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!

Scott Hubbard Certified Home Inspector, ASHI Member Homewerx Home Inspections Office: (480) 503-2611 Toll Free: 1-888-THE-WERX Email me

WE CAN NOW TAKE CARE OF BOTH YOUR HOME INSPECTION & TERMITE REPORT!**

• Inspections 7 Days a Week, Valleywide
• State Certified, ASHI® Standards
• Fully Insured Including E&O, General Liability & Workmans Comp
• Reports Can Be E-mailed
• Lockbox Access
• Online Scheduling
• 5-Day Scheduling Guarantee*
• Low Price Guarantee* 
• Promise of Quality*
• All Inspectors are ASHI® Members or Candidates
• VISA & MasterCard Gladly Accepted
• Comprehensive, Easy-to-Read Reports with Color Photos
• Walk Through with Inspector and Ask Questions
• Get Your Termite Report** & Home Inspection with one appointment, and just one payment!
• Courteous, Knowledgeable Staff
• Highest Ethical Standards
• Latest Technology
• Full Service Inspection Company
• Family-owned and operated since 1999

We offer the following services VALLEYWIDE, 7 days a week:

• Pre-Purchase Inspection
• Pre-Sale Inspection
• Arizona Disclosure Reports
• Neighborhood Environmental Reports
• Construction Inspection
• Warranty Inspection
• Home Maintenance Inspection
• Special Inspection
• Home Energy Tune-uP®
• Commercial Inspection
• Termite Inspection
• Roof Inspection
• Pool & Spa Inspection
• Sewer Inspection
• Air Duct Inspection
• Radon Testing
• Mold Testing & Indoor Air Quality
• Water Testing
• Lead-Based Paint Testing
• Expert Witness Service

(480) 503-2611
or 1-888-THE-WERX

You can even SCHEDULE YOUR INSPECTION ONLINE!

Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!

* 5-day Scheduling Guarantee means 5 business days.  All offers, promotions and guarantees available in Phoenix-metro area only, and other restrictions apply.  Call for complete details.

** Termite Inspections are scheduled by Homewerx, Inc. at the same time as your home inspection, but Termite Inspections are performed by Canyon State Termite & Pest Control LLC.  Only one appointment and one payment required!