Rumor has it that Arizona termite inspectors (like myself) will soon fall under the authority of the AZ Department of Agriculture. AZ termite inspectors and other pest control professionals are currently licensed and regulated by the Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission.
You can read all the details on my favorite Arizona real estate blog!
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.
All types of homes can get termites! See the termite tube hanging from the ceiling in the picture above? This picture was taken inside a masonry home, but the little critters still found the wood! Even if you have a brick or block home instead of a wood-frame structure, your home should be regularly inspected for termites and other wood-destroying insects. Termites are commonly found throughout Arizona, and early detection is the key to preventing/minimizing costly damage to your structure. Brand new homes can have termites too. While the lot is usually pre-treated for termites prior to construction, that 'barrier' is often damaged when the landscaping is installed.
You should have your home inspected for termites annually. Homewerx Home Inspections can take care of both your home inspection and your termite inspection.
Call for an inspection today!
(480) 503-2611
TOLL FREE: 1-888-THE-WERX
Or Schedule Online!
Even in Arizona, you may not use a swimming pool very much in the winter time. But if you're considering adding a pool to your home, winter is the slow season for Arizona swimming pool companies and therefore, you may be able to negotiate a better price on a new pool. Whether you add a pool to your existing home or buy a house that already has a pool, below is some information to consider about swimming pool maintenance.
Maintaining a swimming pool takes time and money. Pools consist of many systems; the structure itself, as well as electrical, plumbing & mechanical systems. So there's alot to maintain including pumps, filters, lights, valves, sometimes a heater and other features. Each pool is different, therefore the exact cost of maintaining your pool will depend on many factors such as the pool's age, surface area, type of finish, water capacity, type of pump & cleaning system, etc.
STRUCTURE & FINISH
The pool's structure will usually last many years provided that it's built right and the finish is properly maintained. The pool's finish may be plaster, pebble-tec or fiberglass. All three types will require regular brushing, cleaning and chemicals. Algae is a bigger concern with a plaster finish. This is because algae can actually etch the plaster finish, or pit the surface and make it rough. Also, the type of pool matters...a diving pool usually holds a lot more water than a play pool, and therefore it will probably cost more to maintain.
COST OF CHEMICALS, ETC.
Properly maintaining the chemical balance of the water is important. If you aren't sure what to add, you can take a sample of your pool water to the local swimming pool supply store for help. They will test it and tell you what chemicals you need and how much to add. Pool water generally requires more chemical maintenance when the weather gets hotter and the pool is used more frequently.
For a pool that does NOT have a chlorinating or soft water system, you'll have to buy chlorine, acid and other chemicals. The chlorine is by far the most expensive of these chemicals, which will probably cost $200 or more per year (depending on the size of the pool, the amount of water it holds, etc.).
If the pool does have a chlorinating or soft water system, you won't need to buy the chlorine but you'll need to buy salt and other chemicals. Also, this type of system is more complex and requires more maintenance.
COST OF FILTERS
There are several different types of filters:
1. Sand filter - probably the cheapest to maintain, as you'll need to replace the sand from time to time.
2. DE - the 'DE powder' (diatemaceous earth) has to be replaced each time the pool is backwashed.
3. Cartridges - these are the most convenient but are also the most expensive to replace.
Note: 'Backwashing' is basically cleaning the filter. It's usually done by connecting a hose to the pool equipment, and then operating a valve that reverses the water flow so that the water pushes the dirt out and drains through the hose (into the street or wherever you put the other end of the hose).
INCREASED COST OF UTILITIES
The water bill will generally be higher for a house with a pool. This is because water has to be added to the pool regularly to make up for evaporation. The water level is usually maintained automatically so you won't know how much evaporation is actually taking place, but the increase in water usage will be much more noticeable in the hotter months.
You'll also have an increase in your electric use due to the pump running. An average pump might need to run 4-8 hours per day, depending on conditions. It will need to run more in the hotter months and during the Arizona monsoon season. You may also see an increase in your gas or electric cost if you heat your pool. Although Arizona doesn't get that cold in the winter, even a small pool will usually costs quite a bit to heat.
Before you buy a house in Arizona, you can contact the local electric company, water company, etc. and they will usually give you information about the utility bill on that house for the past 12 months.
BARRIERS
If you have kids, you definitely need to consider a fence. In fact, a fence should be seriously considered even if you don't have children yourself because your friends, neighbors or relatives might have kids. Many localities have barrier laws requiring not only a fence around the pool, but also self-latching gates and auto-closers on all doors leading to the pool. So be sure to check out and comply with pool barrier laws in your area.
MAINTENANCE & OTHER COSTS
Pumps and heaters may require repair/replacement from time to time, but they usually last many years if properly cared for. Some pools have a vacuum system that crawls the pool, while others have in-floor pop-up cleaning systems. Both will need to be repaired/replaced from time to time - the vacuums wear out and the pop-up heads sometimes get broken. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. The in-floor pop-up systems usually cost more when the pool is being built, but can reduce the amount of your time required to keep the pool clean. Vacuums need to be serviced regularly, and they still don't last forever. When they can't be repaired, vacuums cost several hundred dollars to replace. But the in-floor pop-ups can be even more expensive to repair if you need more than just a head replacement.
TIME INVESTMENT
You should also consider the cost of your time. Think about how much time you're willing to spend cleaning and maintaining your pool vs. how much time you will spend using your pool.
BUYING A HOME WITH A POOL vs. ADDING A POOL
If you're buying a home that already has a pool, you may have to be less picky about the type of pump, cleaning system and other features the pool has. But financially, it's usually best to buy a house that already has a pool since the cost of adding a pool is much higher than what it will add to your property value. For example, adding a $25,000 pool might increase the home's value by $10,000-$15,000. If you do buy a home with a pool, be sure to GET BOTH THE HOME AND THE POOL INSPECTED by a Certified Home Inspector!
Adding a pool yourself will cost more, but you can choose whatever options you want. In this case, you should carefully consider which type of pool/cleaning system best fits your budget and your lifestyle.
In short, a swimming pool can be a fun way to escape the Arizona heat and get some exercise. However, pools also take time and money to properly maintain, and they must be properly secured to avoid drowning accidents. So if you're considering a pool, just be sure you know what you're getting into!
If you have a leaky roof, you probably know about it after the last few weeks of rainstorms! But rainy weather is a good opportunity to check more than just your roof. For example, rainy/windy monsoon storms make it easy to tell how well your windows and doors seal up! Rainy weather is also good time to check your lot for drainage problems. You can easily see whether or not water is draining away from your house, and any place you notice significant water puddling may be an area where the grading needs attention.
You should also walk around the exterior of your property and look for any damage 
from the wind after a monsoon storm. Pay special attention to areas where your landscaping might have been blown against your home. It would be a good idea to make sure all trees and shrubbery are trimmed away from your house before the monsoon season to prevent them from damaging the exterior of your home during windy weather. You may notice pieces of shingles that have been torn from the rooftop and blown to the ground. If you are extra motivated, you may want to get a ladder and look at your roof from the eave. Be careful not to fall and don't walk on a tile roof unless you are a professional!
Your swimming pool also needs extra attention during the monsoon season. Most pools and spas need more chemicals during the summer heat, and the windy monsoon season makes it almost impossible to keep the leaves and other debris out of the water! Clean your pool, skimmers and filters more often, and pay closer attention to your water's chemical levels during the Arizona summer months.
These are just a few of the areas you should regularly inspect on your home. Water damage is expensive and not much fun. If ignored, it can even lead to mold and other problems. Taking steps to keep your home properly maintained will be well worth the effort.
If you have any questions, or are interested in having an Annual Home Maintenance Inspection, call us today!
(480) 503-2611 Valleywide
TOLL FREE: 1-888-THE-WERX
Or Schedule Online!
Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
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!
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!
You see it on the news. Wildfire season is upon us. Fires are constantly burning acreage all across the country, and Arizona is no exception. Each summer, Arizona also sees numerous fires and hundreds of acres scorched due to our dry, desert conditions along with our extremely high temperatures and winds. However, there are some easy steps you can take to protect your property this wildfire season:
It is inevitable that wildfires will burn across Arizona this summer, like last. However, taking a few simple steps can help protect your home and family from a wildfire.
Can you guess what the problem is here? If you asked how is the water going to get out of this completely buried downspout, you're right! This condition is particularly bad for the foundation.
One of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items in the home, and a very common safety defect, is the garage door and opener. The garage door assembly is the largest and heaviest moving object in the home. If it is not in good working order and properly adjusted, it can pose a serious safety risk. There are three basic safety features on your garage door that should periodically be tested, ideally once a month.
The first safety feature that should be checked is the safety reverse beam. This light beam should be installed at about 6 inches from the floor, and should reverse the direction of the door when the beam is broken. Be sure to refer to the installation instructions for proper mounting of this important safety feature.
The second safety feature that should be checked is the auto reverse. This feature will reverse the direction of the door should it encounter resistance while in motion (both up and down). This can be tested by placing an object in the path of the door or holding the door while in motion. I prefer the holding method because a faulty auto reverse can do serious damage to the door (usually the top panel will bend or crack where it attaches to the opener). If the opener fails this test, minor adjustments to the sensitivity setting on the opener will often resolve this issue.
The final safety feature on your garage door is the safety or counter balance spring. This spring takes up the weight of the door and should not allow the door to fall when disconnected from the opener. If this spring is damaged or incorrectly adjusted, the door can close with considerable force. Serious injury or death can result if you, a child or a pet is struck by the door. To test the spring, disconnect the door from the opener (while the door is in the closed position), open the door manually and see if it will remain balanced at the half open point. Should your door fail this test, consult a professional to make repairs. Counter balance springs are under tension and can cause serious injury if adjustments are attempted by an amateur.
If you have any questions regarding the operation of your garage door, feel free to call our office at (480) 503-2611.
When this large hole in the garage ceiling was made, several trusses that hold up the roof were cut through, possibly compromising its structural integrity.
Did you know that some queen termites can give birth every 15 seconds?* You learn something new every day!
* Source: Animal Planet's Top 10 Most Extreme show
WE CAN NOW TAKE CARE OF BOTH YOUR HOME INSPECTION & TERMITE REPORT WITH JUST ONE APPOINTMENT**
Termite Inspections & Wood Infestation Reports (WIRs)** - $65
Offered in conjunction with a Home Inspection ONLY
CALL TODAY!!
(480) 503-2611
Toll Free 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 above special offers, promotions and guarantees apply in the 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!
The roof is arguably one of the most important components of any structure. Proper installation and maintenance will keep out the sun, rain and other elements. If neglected, it will affect every other component of your house and repairs can cost thousands of dollars. With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few things that will help keep your roof healthy and happy for years to come!
To begin with, there are several types of roofs and each has its pros and cons. The most common types here in the valley are tile, asphalt shingle and built up or flat roofs. You will also see wooden shingle or shake roofs in some custom neighborhoods. These types of roofs are all made from different materials and have different life expectancies. All roofs, however, need to be kept free of debris such as leaves and dirt. Keeping your roof clean will not only make your house look better, it will allow the roofing materials to perform the way they were designed. Annual inspections are also an important part of roof maintenance.
Tile Roof
Tile is a great material for roofs, especially here in Arizona. However, if not installed properly, they can begin to leak after a very short period of time. Improper installation is more common than you would think and it can allow the tiles to move out of their intended position (see picture). This allows water to penetrate the roof. Once a leak begins, the roof can deteriorate quickly and tiles can actually fall off the roof (very dangerous if you happen to be standing nearby when it happens). Apart from the installation, tiles can crack easily which also allows water in. If you don’t have a good reason, never walk on a tile roof. In some cases, it will even void your warranty (if they can prove that you were up there). The best preventative measure for tile roofs is to look for cracked tiles and tiles that have shifted out of position, then call a professional, your homebuilder or warranty company. Average life expectancy is approximately 50 years, depending on maintenance.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt roofs can be found all over the country and perform well in most climates. The main enemy to asphalt roofs here in Arizona is the sun. The intense heat and ultra violet rays will deteriorate the shingles and shorten their life span. If the shingles become brittle, they can easily be damaged by wind. Inspect the roof after monsoon storms for missing or damaged shingles. If your roof is over 15 years old, a higher level of maintenance may be required. Asphalt shingles come in different qualities (i.e. 20 year shingles, 30 year shingles, etc.) Keep in mind that here in Arizona, they actually last fewer years than the stated life expectancy due to the intense sun.
Built Up or Flat Roof
A flat roof is not truly flat and installation is key. If water does not drain off the roof properly, it will pond. This sitting water will ruin a flat roof quickly. If ponding does occur, steps should be taken to redirect the water off the roof and away from the house. This expense is far less than replacing the entire roof. If a leak occurs, it may be very hard to detect precisely where it is coming from which can add to the cost of repairs. Prevention is the approach that should be taken when maintaining a flat roof. These roofs should last for the life of the structure provided they are resealed every 3-5 years.
Wooden Shingle or Shake Roof
Wooden roofs can be some of the prettiest roofs and should last 40 to 60 years if properly maintained. One of the best ways to keep a wooden roof in peak condition is to apply a wood sealer every 5 years or so. This will help keep the shingles clean and protect them from water damage and other elements. Wooden roofs, like tile, can be easily damaged by walking on them so stay off unless you have a real good reason. Annual inspections are important; things to look for include curling, cracked or broken shingles and shingles that have been moved out of place.
Nothing will completely eliminate the possibility of a roof leak. However, following a few simple rules along with a little preventative maintenance can help reduce the risk. And catching problems early will greatly reduce your costs when problems do arise!
Remember: If you have any questions or concerns, call a Home Inspector!
Is your warranty about to expire?
Say hello to termite breeding season. That's right, with the beginning of the new year we also begin the time of year where termite activity increases. According to the US Department of Agriculture, over $750 million in damage is caused by termites each year. That's a lot of bugs. The good news is there are some easy things homeowners can do to help avoid these costly pests.
According to the Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission, the most common termite in Arizona is the subterranean termite. Therefore, a good barrier between the ground and the wood in our homes is extremely important. Here is a list of things that homeowners should look for (source: Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission). Although this list is not all inclusive, it will give you a good place to start.
All of these conditions are things that termites and termite inspectors look for, and so should the homeowner. By eliminating these conditions, you can reduce the risk of infestation. However, it is important to remember that all homes are at risk to termite infestation, even masonry structures. See MPEG movie of termites (Source: Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission)
If you have any concerns, be sure to call a professional to check it out before that termite takes a bite out of your house and your wallet.
What can you do with the equity in your home? Re-model the kitchen or bathroom? Re-surface the pool and add a rock water fall and BBQ? Or, remove the tiles on the roof, replace the felt paper and batons completely, and add the flashings that the original roofer failed to install which is why you had to jimmy rig three five gallon buckets in the attic to catch the rain water that is entering between the sheathing and staining the kitchen and living room ceilings. Breathe…….Unfortunately this happened.
The original homeowners purchased this home new, ten short years ago and now have to replace most or all of the underlayment on their roof. The roof had several construction flaws that led to its failure (see pictures below). Most of these flaws allowed storm water to get under the tiles and onto the felt paper. As water runs under the tiles, it runs into thin wood pieces called batons. These batons are what the tiles are nailed to and run horizontally across the span of the roof with gaps every few feet to allow water to slip between, should any water enter. The batons expel the water horizontally which affects additional material and instead of a small area between the leak and the bottom of the roof, you now have a large area that can be affected by one small leak. So instead of paying off the car and taking a cruise through the Caribbean, the homeowner is going to spend thousands of dollars and their home will look just as it did ten years ago.
This is just another example of why it's so important to have a Construction Inspection! We will inspect your new home as it's being built and after it's complete, helping to eliminate hidden surprises like the one described above. A Warranty Inspection can also help to find problems before your new home warranty expires.
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Homewerx offers several different types of inspections to help buyers, sellers and homeowners. Call to schedule your home inspection today!
(480) 503-2611
or 1-888-THE-WERX
...or schedule online!
Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!
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
We inspect in accordance with the Arizona BTR Standards and ASHI® Standards. A standard home inspection includes the following:
Termite Reports & Environmental Inspections are not included in a standard home inspection, but can be done for an additional fee.
During a standard home inspection, the following exterior items are inspected:
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!
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!
Home heating costs are expected to be significantly higher this winter due to recent hurricanes in the Gulf Coast, as well as other factors. The prices of natural gas, heating oil and propane are all expected to rise, with natural gas increasing approximately 41% over last winter's prices. Heating oil is expected to be about 27% more expensive this winter, and propane is expected to cost in excess of 20% more than last winter. In dollars and cents, this means the average U.S. family can expect heating bills to cost over $300 more this winter than last. Once we get through the cold weather, those of us that live in Arizona will be rewarded with yet more high utility bills this summer!
But help is on the way! Homewerx Home Inspections is now offering a new service that can help homeowners keep those electric and gas bills affordable. It's called a Home Energy Tune-uP and it's easy and inexpensive to have done. Our Certified Home Inspector will collect certain data throughout your home such as information about your windows, doors, insulation, heating and cooling units, etc. The Inspector examines and measures all energy related parts of the house, and then uses the data to prepare a report describing what you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your home. For each energy-saving recommendation, your report will estimate the cost and potential savings.
Anyone who plans to live in their home for more than a few years should consider having a Home Energy Tune-uP. It can easily pay for itself by reducing your utility bills, and we should all do our part to conserve energy!
For more information or to schedule a Home Energy Tune-uP, call Homewerx Home Inspections today. The sooner you call, the sooner you can start saving energy and money!
(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX
As Christmas rapidly approaches, homeowners climb their ladders and hang their Christmas decorations. And each weekend, I witness yet another one of my neighbors walking on their tile roof as they string their lights up. This is a really bad idea! Tiles crack very easily. It takes an extremely skilled professional to walk on a tile roof without damaging it. Don't try it - you will most likely be sorry! Home Inspectors generally do not even walk on tile roofs to inspect them!
If you have already walked on your tile roof this year or in the past, you may want to have your roof inspected for broken tiles before it begins to leak. It's relatively inexpensive to have a few tiles replaced. But once they start leaking, it can be much more costly.
If you or someone you know is in need of a home inspection, call today!
(480) 503-2611 or 1-888-THE-WERX
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!
As a home inspector, I often make recommendations to my clients that they should remove or trim vegetation away from the house to prevent damage. In this case, a small cactus was growing on the patio roof. This is not the first time I have needed to recommend the removal of a cactus from the roof.
I recently stumbled across this little jewel. I was inspecting this mid 50's house and when I opened a pocket door that I assumed was to a closet, I discovered that it was blocked off by the exterior siding. Maybe this is a door to nowhere like in the famous haunted Winchester Mansion. Hmmm.
Why would you need a Special Inspection?
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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 |
