
Frequently Asked Questions: Home Inspections & More!
Home Inspection FAQS
What is covered in a home inspection?
Our ASHI Certified Inspectors cover all mechanical systems, including HVAC units, and structural conditions like foundations, basements, crawl spaces, and attics. We inspect interiors such as ceilings, walls, floors, doors, and windows, as well as plumbing and electrical systems, including piping, water heaters, fireplaces, and chimneys. Our exterior inspection includes siding, drainage, grading, gutters, and roofing. Inspectors carry 32-foot ladders or use drones if necessary. We inspect framing, roofs, attics, foundations, walls, electrical systems, plumbing systems, heating and air conditioning systems, kitchens, and bathrooms. Additional items unique to your home can also be inspected. We cover all home types, including new construction, flipped homes, and manufactured and modular homes. Our goal is to provide thorough inspections and detailed reports for a comprehensive understanding of your home's condition.
Do You Offer Partial Inspections or Can I Request Only Certain Items in the Home be Inspected?
At Reliable Home Inspection Service, we adhere to the strict standards set by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of your property. Our inspections cover the entire building, as we believe that a thorough assessment is essential for your peace of mind. Please note that we do NOT offer partial inspections or on specific areas, such as basement or electrical systems. If you require a targeted inspection, we recommend reaching out to a specialized contractor or service provider who can better meet your needs.
Do You Offer Re-inspections on Homes?
Regarding re-inspections on homes: a reinspection on a property Reliable Home Inspections has recently performed can only be done if utilities (such as water, gas or electric) were not on at the initial inspection or if certain areas were not accessed. The inspector can complete a reinspection of these areas only for an additional fee. A reinspection cannot be performed to review or certify repairs made by the seller. We recommend having the seller provide receipts for all repairs made and have them provide a signed outline of all repairs they have completed and when.
How long does a Home Inspection take to complete?
A general home inspection typically takes between 2 1/2 to 3 hours, depending upon the size of the home. Homes over 3,500 square feet, those with additional HVAC units and older homes may take longer to complete. Our staff will be able to provide you a more exact home inspection length upon booking your home inspection. Please note that some additional services i.e. Mold Testing also may increase the length of the inspection.
What is the Average Cost of a General Home Inspection?
The average cost of the General Home Inspecction home inspection is between $450 and $550 in most cases. Every home is unique and we highly encourage reaching out to our office via phone or email to receive your personized quote. Our office staff will review the property, discuss unique features of your home such as age, additional structures, size and more. We'll also go over any and all current promotions and discounts with you. Please let our staff know if you'll be needing additional add on services such as Radon Testing, WDI, Mold etc.
What locations do you offer Home Inspections?
Reliable Home Inspection Service offers home inspections across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, covering counties such as New Castle County, Kent County, Sussex County, Chester County, Philadelphia County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Cecil County.
What will the Home Inspection Report look like?
You can see a Sample of our Home Inspection Report which includes a summary report and detailed report listing Major Defects, Safety Concern, Service and Repair Items & Monitor and Maintain Items. Every item contains a detailed description and photograph of the defect or issue.
Can I be present during the home inspection?
Yes, we highly encourage you to attend the home inspection! This allows you to discuss findings with the inspector, see defects in real time, and learn about your new home. Please limit the number of people joining you to one additional person, not including buyers and agents. If you can't attend due to travel or work, we can still complete the inspection. Your home inspection agreement and invoice will be sent to you on the day of booking and must be completed before the inspection starts. The inspector will answer any questions via phone or email after the report is released.
Can I request which Reliable Home Inspector I'd like to perform my Home Inspection?
Absolutely you can request your Home Inspector and we do our best to accommodate all inspector requests. Please be aware that request accommodations are subject to inspector availability and inspection timeframe.
What Discounts are Available for Home Inspections?
Reliable Home Inspection Service proudly offers discounts to our First-Time Buyers, Repeat Clients, Military Members or Union Members. We also offer a Bundling Packages for New Construction Inspections. Please contact our office to learn more.
I had to waive my Home Inspection in order to get my offer accepted by the Seller. What do I do now? Am I doomed?
Unfortunately in today's market, this isn't an uncommon occurrence. The good news is that it's not too late! Learn more about Post Purchase/ Post Settlement Inspections here and lose that sinking feeling over not knowing the condition of your home.
What about Walk and Talk Inspections or Consultations?
Per ASHI inspection standards, our inspectors must complete and issue a report of the entire home/property. In a one hour walk and talk inspection or consultation, we feel that potential buyers don't receive a thorough inspection that provides a view understanding of the home's issues.
What is your reinspection policy?
We can reinspect a property if utilities (water, gas, or electric) were not on during the initial inspection or if certain areas were not accessed. This service is available for an additional fee. We do not reinspect to review or certify repairs made by the seller. We recommend obtaining receipts and a signed outline of all repairs from the seller.
How can I refer a friend or family member?
Referrals are the highest compliment! Provide your friend or family member with our office number at 877-993-9100 or have them email us at info@reliablehomeinspectionservice.com. Make sure they mention your name and mailing address so we can send you a $20 Wawa gift card as a thank you!
When and how will I receive my home inspection report?
Home Inspection reports are always delivered the same day as your home inspection appointment via email. The report is sent directly to our clients and /or their realtors if they have one and choose to also provide their email as well. The report is not sent to any other parties including but not limited to sellers, builders, contractors, etc. Since the client has paid for the report it is up to them who they choose to provide a copy to.
How Can I Schedule a Home Inspection?
To set up your home inspection with Reliable Home Inspection Service, please give our office a call M-F between 8:30 AM and 6:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, or Sunday 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and a staff member will be happy to assist you. You can also book online 24/7 through our website. For new construction inspections, standalone testing services such as radon or WDI, or commercial inspections, please call our office as these services cannot be booked online or email us at info@reliablehomeinspectionservice.com.




