For homeowners
Annual home inspection
A yearly look at the house you already own. It turns small things, like a clogged downspout or a loose deck board, into a to-do list before they turn into repairs.
Who it's for
Homeowners who'd like a regular check-up, especially on older wood-frame homes, coastal houses that take salt air and wind, and houses with crawlspaces.
Owners of rentals or second homes who aren't there every week to notice changes.
Before the rain comes
What's covered
- Roof and drainageRoof covering, flashing, gutters and downspouts, and where the water goes once it reaches the ground.
- Wood outsideSiding, trim, decks, railings and stairs, where weather shows up first.
- Crawlspace and atticMoisture, insulation, ventilation and anything that's changed since last time.
- Water heater and HVACSeismic straps, venting, drain pans, filters and how the equipment runs.
- Safety itemsSmoke and carbon monoxide alarms where present, stairs, railings and GFCI outlets.
Around the house
What you get
- Report within 24 hours.
- A written report you can use as a maintenance list for the year.
- A record of the house's condition that's useful the next time you refinance, insure or sell.
Seasonal checks
Honest notes
An annual inspection doesn't replace servicing by an HVAC technician, plumber or roofer. It tells you where to point them.
Home inspections follow the InterNACHI Standards of Practice: a visual, non-invasive look at the readily accessible parts of the house.
Questions
How often should I have an annual inspection?
Many owners choose once a year. Older houses, coastal houses and rentals often benefit most from a regular schedule.
When is a good time of year?
Late summer or early fall works well here: there's time to clear gutters, fix roof items and check drainage before the rainy season.
Is it the same as a buyer's inspection?
It uses the same visual approach. The focus is on upkeep and on what has changed, rather than on a purchase decision.
Related services
Free instant quote
Get a free instant quote for any of the inspections or energy services on this site.
Rather talk it through? Call (707) 533-7579, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or email [email protected].