Joe The
Handy
Home
Inspector
Joe The
Handy
Home
Inspector
Creating Peace of Mind
Veteran Owned and Operated
Serving The Upstate of South Carolina
Home Inspections, Radon and Mold Testing
PMB 196
3504 Highway 153
Greenville, S.C. 29611
Home Inspections
Home Inspections
Joe The Handy Home Inspector understands that buying a home could be the largest investment you will ever make. You’ll want to learn as much as you can about the house before you buy it. Joe The Handy Home Inspector may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance. A home inspection by Joe The Handy Home Inspector is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. The main purpose of a home inspection is to give you the information needed to make an informed decision on the purchase.
First Time Home Buyer Friendly
Disabled Veteran Business
The Value of Drones in Roof Inspections
Roof inspections have historically required observation either at the ground level, from a ladder, or from physically walking the roof. These observations not only involve steep angles, but also expansive and even inaccessible areas. Because of these physical restrictions, observing every inch of roofs is extremely unlikely, and the quality of these inspections is highly limited. However, when utilizing a drone to capture high quality photos, no matter the roof style you can be assured that every inch of the roof has been inspected.
How We Inspect Roofs
Drone roof inspections are accomplished through piloting a drone equipped with a high-resolution camera into the air and capturing images. The result is an incredibly detailed model of the property and its structures which clearly reveals the condition of the roof.
Drones can also fly extremely close to structures, making the inspection of roofs with complicated designs and hard to reach areas such as skylights much more efficient and accurate.
The Value of Drones in Roof Inspections
Roof inspections have historically required observation either at the ground level, from a ladder, or from physically walking the roof. These observations not only involve steep angles, but also expansive and even inaccessible areas. Because of these physical restrictions, observing every inch of roofs is extremely unlikely, and the quality of these inspections is highly limited. However, when utilizing a drone to capture high quality photos, no matter the roof style you can be assured that every inch of the roof has been inspected.
How We Inspect Roofs
Drone roof inspections are accomplished through piloting a drone equipped with a high-resolution camera into the air and capturing images. The result is an incredibly detailed model of the property and its structures which clearly reveals the condition of the roof.
Drones can also fly extremely close to structures, making the inspection of roofs with complicated designs and hard to reach areas such as skylights much more efficient and accurate.
The Value of Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections
Infrared (thermal imaging) is an advanced, non-invasive technology that allows the inspector to give insight to homeowners about their homes that can’t be revealed using conventional inspection methods.
In terms of energy loss, an IR camera can detect:
heat loss and air infiltration in walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; damaged and/or malfunctioning radiant heating systems; air-conditioner compressor leaks; and other structural defects that can lead to energy loss.
In terms of detecting moisture intrusion, an IR camera can locate:
plumbing leaks; hidden roof leaks; missing, damaged and/or wet insulation; and water and moisture intrusion around penetrations as well as at the foundation and building envelope that could lead to structural damage.
IR cameras are equally effective at locating hot spots in the home, including:
overloaded and undersized circuits; overheated electrical equipment and components; and electrical faults.
NOTE: Thermal images of moisture problems (if any) will be confirmed with a quality moisture meter. Although Infrared Thermal Imaging is a far better diagnostic tool than the naked eye, it does not guarantee 100% accuracy, unless removal or destruction of components can be achieved to validate findings. When possible, other tools are used to verify Thermal Images.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
When do I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.
Do I have to be there?
While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will have that information for future reference.