Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should you have a phase inspection on your house being built?
2. Why should someone use Smith Inspection Services, Inc. over another inspection service?
3. Should the client be present at the inspection?
4. What should a buyer look for in an inspector?
5. Should you have an EIFS or Stucco home inspected?

1. Should you have a phase inspection on your house being built?

Absolutely. City inspectors do not inspect all the items of the home & the Builders “in house inspector” is working for the Builder, not you. That is why you need an unbiased third party home inspector protecting your interest, not the Builders. Framing related problems cannot be corrected once the sheet rock is installed. City inspectors do not inspect the stucco with a critical eye the way I do. You, the buyer, can reduce your risk significantly by hiring an independent home inspector who knows the current industry standards. An experienced home inspector cannot eliminate all of your risk, but he can will drastically reduce it.

2. Why should someone use Smith Inspection Services, Inc. over another home inspection service?

Integrity is my goal in life. I will strive to earn your trust and give you the time you paid for conveying the property condition. Attention to detail, a superior report, second to none resource library and a commitment to my client is my only way of doing business. I am an experienced ASHI inspector, and ICC (International Code Council) certified inspector. I am one of two certified moisture analysts through EDI (Exterior Design Institute) in central Texas who performs moisture intrusion inspections on EIFS & stucco. State of the art equipment, digital photos within my reports delivered the same day. I always invite the client(s) to be at the inspection. Sellers & Sellers realtors should not be at the inspection.

3. Should the client be present at the home inspection?

Absolutely! This is probably the largest investment you will make in your lifetime. You should know everything that your home inspector finds and how each item of the house functions. As your personal consultant, I want you to hear from me, not your realtor the condition of the home. Your presence at the home inspection will lower your liability and mine. This home inspection is your time & for your benefit, not the sellers. You are free to ask all the questions you want. I personally do all my inspections, not a trainee. I include digital photos & have a superior report that is delivered the same day!

4. What should a buyer look for in an home inspector?

Many years of personal experience, an ASHI member. A recently licensed, “Minimum Standards” home inspector does not have the knowledge or resource library of an experienced home inspector. Active memberships and positions held in professional home inspection associations. Educational experience. Anyone can become a home inspector. The yearly required minimum of continuing education is 16 hours. I complete over 40 hours per year.

5. Should you have an EIFS or Stucco home inspected?

Yes! Most builders and stucco installers do not adhere to the current industry standards or ASTM – American Society of Testing Materials. All masonry will absorb some level of moisture. A proper stucco installation should allow the wall cavity to “drain the plane” reducing your risk of wood decay and mold. Only a certified moisture analyst is trained how to probe for defects, take moisture samples and can recognize poor installation practices that can cost you $1,000’s of dollars down the road.

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