Even a Small Plumbing Leak Can Lead to Mold
Even a small water leak can result in a significant mold problem if left unrepaired.
GET IT INSPECTED!!
Even a small water leak can result in a significant mold problem if left unrepaired.
What is a HomeXraySM?
A HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM can help the Inspector "see" problems that would otherwise not be visible.
Why do I need a HomeXraySM?
A HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM is an inexpensive, non-invasive and non-destructive method of finding hidden problems that would otherwise go undetected. Often times, a HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM. Rest assured that when you order a HomeXraySM 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.
What types of problems can a HomeXraySM reveal?
A HomeXraySM can find several different types of hidden problems, including:
Is a HomeXraySM part of a Home Inspection?
A HomeXraySM is not included with your home inspection - it's an additional service. You can order a HomeXraySM by itself, or with a home inspection. You may also choose to have a HomeXraySM of your entire house, or we can do a HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM at the same time!
Do I get a report with my HomeXraySM?
Yes! The Inspector also prepares a comprehensive, typewritten report which explains the results of your HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM cost?
The price of a HomeXraySM depends on several factors: the size of your home, whether you want a HomeXraySM of the entire house or just a certain area, and whether you order your HomeXraySM with a home inspection or by itself. But for a limited time, when you order a home inspection from Homewerx, you can get a HomeXraySM for an additional fee of:
Order your HomeXraySM today!
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE: 1-888-THE-WERX
Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
*IMPORTANT NOTE: $149 HomeXraySM 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 HomeXraySM 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 25th, Homewerx Home Inspections will be offering Arizona Disclosure Reports. Under a new Arizona law (H.B. 2779) effective September 21st, 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:
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.
Even when you are not buying or selling a home, you can still benefit from a home inspection in a variety of ways:
We also inspect rental properties:
We even do Commercial Inspections!
So remember, home inspections are not just for buyers! The longer you have owned your home or plan to own your home, the more important it is to have regular inspections in order to properly maintain your home and avoid costly repairs.
Call for an inspection today!
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE: 1-888-THE-WERX
Or Schedule Online!
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:
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:
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!
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:
Water Test: Level III - $299*
This is a Complete Water Analysis which includes:
...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:
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 reasons one might need a home inspection:
Call today!
(480) 503-2611
or 1-888-THE-WERX
Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
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
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!
Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It is created naturally by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. Radon typically gets trapped inside your home by moving up through the ground to the air above, then into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon can also get into the home through well water. Once inside your home, it becomes part of the air you breathe or the water you drink. Depending on ventilation and other conditions inside your home, the radon concentration may pose a serious health risk to your family. Radon is invisible, odorless and tasteless so the only way to know your home's radon level is to test for it.
Most people feel safe when they are at home and don't worry about getting radiation exposure from their house. But according to the Environmental Protection Agency, home is where you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure because it's where you spend most of your time. In fact, the EPA estimates that radon causes 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. each year. This makes radon the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. today, second only to smoking. And if you smoke plus have high radon levels in your home, your risk of lung cancer is extra high.
The EPA says one out of every fifteen U.S. homes has an elevated level of radon (4 pCi/L or more). Furthermore, radon can be a problem in any home - new house or old, well-sealed or drafty, basement or no basement and regardless of the home's geographical location. It's not possible to predict radon levels based on state or local radon measurements, nor can you rely on radon test results taken in other homes in the neighborhood.
If your home's radon level is 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, the EPA recommends that steps be taken to reduce the radon level. Radon mitigation contractors may use a variety of techniques to reduce your radon level. Sealing cracks and other penetrations in the foundation may be part of the solution, but sealing cracks alone is not enough. A system of vent pipes and fans may be installed in the crawl space or another location in your home, creating a "sub-slab depressurization system". This system draws the radon gas through the vent pipes, preventing it from entering the home from below the concrete floor or outside the foundation. Radon mitigation contractors may also use other methods depending on the design of your home and other factors. While it sounds complicated and intrusive, these systems generally do not require major changes to your home, and repairs can usually be accomplished for around $800-$2500. Even in homes where the radon level is less than 4 pCi/L, radon may still pose a risk and in many cases, can be reduced.
While radon cannot be eliminated, the radon level in your home can be minimized. Testing for radon is the first step. The EPA recommends a radon test for anybody that is buying, selling or building a home. The EPA also recommends testing your home after any major renovations, or if you change your living patterns (i.e. you begin occupying a basement level that was previously not used much). You should also re-test your home after having radon mitigation features installed to be sure that radon levels have been reduced.
A Radon Test costs:
For more information or to schedule a radon test for your home, CALL HOMEWERX HOME INSPECTIONS TODAY!
(480) 503-2611
or Toll Free 1-888-THE-WERX
or you can schedule online!
....because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
DON'T PAY FOR YOUR BUILDER'S MISTAKES!!
All homes have flaws and hidden defects, even brand new homes. The cracks in the walls and sticking doors may just be the tip of the iceberg. Some defects can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars to repair, as well as put your family’s health and safety at risk. That's why it’s important to have someone on your side like Homewerx Home Inspections.
A warranty inspection by Homewerx Home Inspections will help you find the hidden problems that exist in your new home BEFORE your warranty expires. From roofs that are improperly installed and in some cases, not even finished, to broken trusses and missing insulation, we regularly find major builder errors that slipped by the busy city inspectors. Our inspection can easily pay for itself by saving you future out-of-pocket repairs.
In addition to revealing problems caused by sub-standard materials and workmanship, we will also document the problems you already know about, making the ‘builder warranty process’ less of a headache. Our easy-to-read, yet comprehensive typewritten report has color digital photos, a summary of necessary repairs you can give to your builder, and home maintenance tips to help keep your home in top shape. Let us catch the problems now to save you time, frustration and money in the future.
HURRY...CALL BEFORE YOUR WARRANTY EXPIRES!
(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX
...or you can schedule online!
REMEMBER...if our Inspector finds one flaw covered under your warranty that you were unaware of, this inspection can easily pay for itself!!
Protect Your Investment...call for an appointment TODAY!
Why would you need a Special Inspection?
The leaky shower head that caused this damage LOOKED like it was only leaking outside the wall. An inspection revealed that the leak had actually caused the wall to rot, requiring that it be completely rebuilt. (Picture above was taken during wall repairs. No dismantling or destructive testing is performed during a home inspection.)
Special Inspections are for homeowners that need help with a specific problem instead of an 'entire house inspection'.
CALL for an inspection TODAY!
(480) 503-2611
Toll Free 1-888-THE-WERX
...because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
Need an Expert on your side?
Let one of our experienced Home Inspectors be your Expert Witness and:
We're on your side! Call for a free price quote today.
(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX
Think you don’t need your new home inspected during and after construction because the city inspector will catch any flaws?
Think again…New homes need to be inspected too!
Many defects can affect your family’s health and safety, not to mention your pocketbook and the long term condition of your home. By hiring Homewerx to inspect your new home during its construction, you are sending a message to your builder that you expect quality workmanship and intend to hold them to the highest standards possible. Having an inspection during the construction of your new home also allows us to inspect inside the walls and other areas that can’t be seen in a finished house. Therefore, the Inspector can make sure important items, like the stem wall, are constructed properly.
City inspectors look mainly for code violations. And most people would be AMAZED at some of the defects our inspectors have found that apparently slipped by the city inspector!
Depending on how far along construction is when you call us, we will perform 3 separate inspections while your house is being built. Of course, Clients are always welcome to call their Inspector at any phase of the construction to discuss whatever concerns they may have.
Stem Wall Inspection - takes place upon completion of the stem wall, preferably before the underground plumbing is buried
Frame Inspection - takes place just before the drywall and insulation are installed
Final Inspection - takes place when construction is complete and utilities are turned on (just prior to the final walk-through)
CALL TODAY!!!
(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX
or you can schedule online!
...because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
WHAT'S HIDING IN YOUR ATTIC?
We all perform regular maintenance on our cars by having a tune-up every so many miles, but what about your house? Often times, our biggest investment is also the most neglected.
Homes in Mesa have increased in value approximately 50% over the last year. To maintain that value, you need to have periodic inspections and repairs performed on your home. Catching problems early can help prevent more severe and costly damage later.
The average home inspection reveals more than 43 defects. Even new homes have many hidden problems never seen by the occupants. Some defects even pose a significant HEALTH and SAFETY RISK to you and your family. Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind!
A Home Maintenance Inspection from Homewerx will make you aware of what repairs are needed now to avoid further costly damage, and which ones can wait. In addition to identifying and prioritizing those conditions that need attention, a home inspection can also detect immediate safety issues. From broken trusses and roof problems to plumbing and electrical issues...we’ll check it all out for you. We even do a carbon monoxide test. By identifying and correcting problems early, you can save a great deal of time, money and frustration.
A Home Maintenance Inspection is also a great learning opportunity. You can walk through the house with the Inspector and ask any questions you may have about your home or its components. Our Inspectors will take the time to answer your questions and address your concerns. In addition to being extremely knowledgeable, our Inspectors are also very personable and are able to answer questions and discuss their findings in a manner that is easy to understand. Many Clients are amazed at how much information they obtain during a 2-3 hour home inspection.
Selling your home soon and don’t want to do repairs? Not only do most buyers have a home inspection, but the average buyer negotiates TWICE the cost of necessary repairs during the sale. Knowledge is power! Properly maintaining your home now will ensure maximum sales price and minimum time on the market when you sell.
If your home has not been inspected recently, CALL TODAY!!!
(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX
or you can schedule online!
Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
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!
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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!**
We offer the following services VALLEYWIDE, 7 days a week:
(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!