Electrical issues are the most common and usually the most dangerous.

3-How long do septic systems usually last?

          Most systems should last about 20 years but can depend on usage habits,maintenance and whether the system was properly installed.

4-Are home inspectors the same as code enforcers?

          No.Although we pride ourselves with keeping up with the codes it would be hard to know all the codes as each town has accepted different BOCA codes.Usually if the defect is a safety issue we will cite it.

5-What is air radon and how long does it take to test and get results?

          Air radon is an odorless gas that emits from the ground and can cause health risks.A good website is  www.epa.gov to educate yourself on potential health issues.It takes 48 hours to test and another 48 hours to get the results.

6-How long does an inspection take?

          A typical general inspection takes about 2 hours.If more testing is done such as septic it can take a bit longer.

7-Should I attend the home inspection?

           Attendance is recommended but not required.Questions are also encouraged.Remember,this is your inspection and the more involved the better.

8-What if the lender requires more information after the inspection or needs a reinspection after an issue has been repaired?

          Usually there is no cost for this and the lenders are encourage to contact us directly.Remember we are there throughout the process to help in any way we can.

9-What is covered or tested for in a water test and how long for the results.

          Our best water test tests for all metals including arsenic,lead,copper,iron, and manganese as well as chloride,e-coli,nitrate,ph and sodium levels.The price is $90.00.

10-How far do you travel to do an inspection?

          Usually an hour from the Portland area but further distances may be arranged.

11-Mold is a hot issue of late,do you test for mold and what type of tests are available?

         We test for mold but only if there is a need for it.There are several ways to test for mold.Aerosol air tests are available as well as tape lifts and invasive testing.Invasive testing can be the most expensive and will require the seller`s permission.

12-Are pest tests or inspections available?

          Yes,we are FHA approved pest inspectors.Usually,if 2 or more extra inspections are performed the pest test is free.

13-Do you access roofs and crawlspaces?

           Yes,we access all areas that are reasonably safe.We also use digital pictures so that the client can view these areas for themselves without having to access these areas.We provide a floppy disc of the pictures with the report so the client can view at a later time.

14-What is the best way to contact you ?

           We can be contacted at any time by cell phone,e-mail,pager or business phone.

15-Who does your lab services?

           Northeast Laboratory Services located on Riverside Street in Portland are the exclusive laboratory services that we use.They are fully certified and accredited by the state for all services that we provide.You can visit their website @ www.nelabservices.com

16-What does your septic inspection include?

            Our premium inspection{ $145 }includes locating the holding tank and inspecting the level and baffles.The d-box is also located and opened {if there is one} and a sample of the leachfield is taken.Basically everything is opened up and inspected.

17-Do you check oil tanks?

            Yes.Oil tanks should be in compliance with state rules. www.meoil.com  is a good website to check the rules and regulations.