Services

As a professional home inspector, Arch has experience, knowledge and expertise to provide you with a thorough and professional, non-intrusive, visual inspection of your home, from the foundation to the roof.

At the exterior, we will inspect the sidings, doors and windows, decks, roof and site drainage conditions. Next, we will move inside to examine walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and interior conditions. The heating, air-conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems will all be examined to ensure that they function as intended. Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms receive a thorough check, along with the attic and basement or crawl space.

    Your ARCH Home Inspection includes verbal and written information on:

  1. The Roof, Chimney & Flashing: Answers to important questions such as the type of roof, its present condition and approximate age, and the likelihood of replacement in the coming years is discussed with the client. The chimney and flashing condition is also inspected and documented in the report.
  2. The Exterior: An examination of the property’s exterior is conducted. The conditions of wall surfaces and watertight integrity are evaluated and entryway doors and windows are examined for proper operation and condition.
  3. The Structure: Examination of the foundation, floor and wall structure, columns, ceiling and roof structure. Visual inspection is performed to help determine if interior modifications have been made e.g. extensive remodeling. If suspect deterioration is observed, client will be advised to consult with the appropriate trades for repairs. Any visible signs of staining or water penetration are documented.
  4. The Interior: The interior inspection involves such areas as the walls, floors and ceilings. Doors and windows are checked for proper operation. Notations are made if signs of water penetration exist.
  5. Heating Systems: The energy source along with the type of equipment and distribution system is evaluated and recorded in the report as well as the approximate age of the equipment. Systems are operated and visually examined by opening readily accessible access panels.
  6. Air Conditioning Systems: Although rare in San Francisco, many high-rise buildings have air conditioning or H.V.A.C systems installed. These will be documented and operated to ensure functionality.
    Recommendations will be provided to buyers as a guide toward proper operation as well as usage and system maintenance.
  7. Insulation and Ventilation: Observations and notations are made concerning the type and amount of insulation (where visible) and whether vapor barriers exist in unfinished areas. Ventilation is checked in sub areas, crawlspace and foundation areas, along with kitchen, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
  8. Electrical System: Service equipment, main and distribution panels, grounding and branch wiring systems are checked. Polarity and grounding of wall receptacles are observed. Ground Fault and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters are tested for proper operation.
  9. Plumbing System: All above ground interior supply and service lines are observed, piping materials are recorded, and fixtures and faucets are checked. Functional water flow, pressure and drainage are observed. Hot water systems are checked for operation and the condition of the system is recorded in the report.
  10. Appliances: Many household appliances fall outside the realm of a general home inspection, however most will receive an on/off test to ensure normal operation. Unfortunately, your inspector will not be able to do a load of laundry or bake a cake. Similarly, spas, saunas and hot tubs fall outside the scope of a general home inspection, however recommendations can be provided upon request for maintenance and/or warrantee availability.