Most of us living in Arizona don't run our heat very often.  However, it's still important to do regular maintenance on your heat pump... especially since your heat pump also cools your home in the summer months!  Although heat pumps and air conditioners function differently, they both produce condensation as they cool.  This condensation collects in a drain pan, and is then drained out through the condensate lines.  These condensate lines can become clogged, leading to a significant risk of water leakage, water damage and mold.  Having your home's heat pump or air conditioner serviced regularly can help to avoid much more expensive repairs in the future.

The picture below shows a heat pump's primary drain pan, which is full of rust and other crud indicating improper drainage.  And yes, "crud" is a technical term!

Even a small water leak can result in a significant mold problem if left unrepaired.

GET IT INSPECTED!!

This is a Donald Duck orange juice container modified to catch the drip from a leaking water pipe and drain it into a container.  Plumbing leaks that are not properly fixed in a timely manner can lead to other problems such as mold.  Always call a licensed contractor to make your home repairs!

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.

Even when you are not buying or selling a home, you can still benefit from a home inspection in a variety of ways:

• Warranty Inspections - for new homes, before the 1 or 2 year warranty expires
• Annual Home Maintenance Inspections - to find problems early, minimizing repair costs
• Home Energy Tune-uPs - for homeowners who want to save energy
• Termite Inspections - should be performed regularly in Arizona
• Roof Inspections - annually or if you suspect a problem
• Pool & Spa Inspections - annually or if you suspect a problem
• Sewer Inspections - using a video camera, usually to diagnose a problem
• Air Duct Inspections - using a video camera, usually to diagnose a problem
• Radon Testing - when buying or if you suspect a problem
• Lead-based Paint Testing - usually for homes built prior to 1978
• Mold Testing & Indoor Air Quality - when buying or if you suspect a problem
• Water Quality Testing - when buying or if you suspect a problem
• Special Inspections - if you just have a specific problem or concern
• Expert Witness Services - for legal issues with builders, contractors, insurance companies, warranty companies and other parties

We also inspect rental properties:

• Landlord and Investor Inspections - performed regularly while tenants are living in your property
• Renter Inspections - to help renters document existing damage and defects before moving into a rental property

We even do Commercial Inspections!

• Offices
• Retail space
• Apartment complexes
• Other commercial properties

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!

Leaky waste piping can lead to water damage and mold growth.  Any leak from a waste or supply pipe should be promptly repaired to avoid costly repairs.

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!

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

There are many reasons one might need a home inspection:

• Before you buy a home
• Before you sell a home
• While you're building a new home
• Before your new home warranty expires
• When you have a specific problem that needs investigating such as your roof, sewer or plumbing system, air ducts and ventilation, pool or spa, etc.
• To improve energy efficiency and save money on utility bills
• When your builder won't seem to honor their warranty
• Periodically to catch problems early and maintain your home's value
• To look for termite activity
• For environmental testing, such as lead-based paint, water quality, radon, mold & indoor air quality

Call today!

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

or Schedule Online!

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!

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:

• $200 by itself, or
• $150 if done in conjunction with a home inspection or other service.

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?

• Are those cracks in your walls just settlement cracks or are they structural?
• Should you pay to fix them or wait...will they just crack again? 
• Have you received estimates from contractors and aren't sure they're being honest with you?
• Are they telling you that something needs to be replaced when it only needs to be adjusted?
• Do you have moisture getting in somehow but you're not sure how?
• Have you ever wondered why it is warmer in one room than another?
• Do you hear running water even when no faucets are on?
• What about the door that sticks and those cracks in your tile.

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

Or Schedule Online

...because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!

Need an Expert on your side?

• Are you fighting with your builder or contractor?   
• Are you a Real Estate Agent, or otherwise involved in a real estate transaction gone bad? 
• Feel that a lawsuit may be the only way to resolve your differences?

Let one of our experienced Home Inspectors be your Expert Witness and:

• Thoroughly inspect the property or item in question
• Take pictures, video clips, verbal & written notes
• Perform various research (public records, codes, etc.)
• Prepare a comprehensive written report with color digital photos
• Communicate findings supporting your position to other parties
• If necessary, appear for depositions and/or testify on your behalf.

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!

Check Construction Inspection Prices

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!

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!