Home inspections are a visual analysis of the main areas and systems of the house or home, conducted by a trained, certified, licensed and objective home inspector, and is an important step in the home-buying process. Not only will the inspector, identify non-functioning, damaged systems and components where safety concerns may exist, but also can
re-enforce where quality work has been completed.  Home inspections are one of the most effective ways to insure that you are not only making a sound financial investment; but also a sound structural investment. Home inspections are top to bottom, from the landscaping to the roof, into the attic, through each room and living space down to the basement, inside and out and all around your new property, and should be conducted according to the stringent Standards of Practice of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). All home inspections should be done only by experienced, qualified and licensed inspectors.

Home Inspectors usually offer a variety of services beyond home inspections, such as termite inspections, radon testing, water testing, lead testing, asbestos inspections, mold inspection and testing.  Some inspectors offer a free limited warranty and we are available to re-inspect after repairs so you can be sure standards are met. Some inspectors are contractors, some have no affiliations with contractors or real estate companies, and some make repairs or offer remodeling services. Most inspectors provide professional, timely, and easy to interpret inspection reports.

Our home inspection reports include repair estimates that in passed cases have helped save over $10,000,000 for the potential VIP client. Reports should be easy to read and easily able to show the seller, documentation of issues needing to be resolved prior to  purchase.  Home inspection reports do not describe the condition of every component if it's in excellent shape, but should note every item that is defective or needing service, and typically be ready within 48 hours from the time of the inspection. Usually reports are prepared at the office and computer printed, once back at the office the notes are compiled into the client’s Inspection Report. Inspectors that use quick and easy to fill out "checklist" reports, or handwritten reports are taking a big risk.  Check list reports are limited, and there is too much information that can be accidentally omitted if a report is written quickly.  Olympian never uses a checklist report.

The following is a quick list of some of the main areas of inspections included in your inspection report: foundation and structure, walls and slab, exterior siding and trim, roof structure and shingles, gutters and down spouts, entrance steps, porches and decks, all exterior doors, chimneys, electrical entrance lines, patios, garages and driveways, sidewalks, kitchens and appliances, all bathroom toilets, tubs, showers and sinks, all interior walls, floors, ceilings and stalls, all doors and windows, lights and outlets, electrical systems, plumbing, visible waste lines, furnace and air conditioning, hot water heaters, basements, floor joists, laundries, ceiling fans, fireplaces, attic areas and insulation, venting, and an estimate of the remaining useful life of the major systems (such as the roof, hot water heater, heating, air conditioning), equipment, structure and finishes.

During the inspection your inspector will evaluate the physical condition of the structure, construction and mechanical systems. Only a trained and experienced professional home inspector can properly evaluate a structure and its systems and report its true condition.  Many older homes are >40-100 years old and have systems that may need to be replaced.  Newer homes also need independent inspections to ensure that the major systems are in good condition.  Understanding your home's systems and components are essential when it comes to your purchase, repair and maintenance decisions.

Mr. Kanakis, your home inspector, will answer any questions you may have and also will provide an orientation of the property to you, the new potential owner.  No concern you may have is too small and the only silly questions are the ones not asked.  You should be present at the home inspection so you can ask questions and look at areas needing maintenance or repair.  The inspection provides an invaluable learning and discovery experience during which your questions can be answered on the spot.  Typically, almost 20% of the inspection time is spent answering questions and serving clients.

Home inspections are becoming an increasingly critical part of the home buying and selling process.  Home inspections are one of the most effective ways to insure that you are not only making a sound financial investment; but also a sound structural investment. Real estate professionals know that professional home inspections are a very important part of buying and selling homes. You will appreciate the advice, but be sure and trust your property to only professional, certified home inspectors from Olympian. Home inspections are not intended to point out every small problem or any non-visible defects in a home; home Inspections are important and necessary for your own protection and future security. That's why home inspections are a vital tool to avoid any unexpected mishaps.