Too often, clients decline getting inspections done on new or rebuilt structures since all or most of the work was done so recently.
Because we have yet to see any flawless building, regardless of age, we always strongly recommend getting all newly constructed buildings inspected.
Builders have standards to follow but those requirements aren’t always met. Even if the builder works with honor and integrity, people still make mistakes. No one is an exception to this rule. If the builder has subcontractors, he has less control over the quality of workmanship. By getting the structure inspected, defects may be uncovered, which gives you the opportunity to have the contractor address those issues before time runs out for a correction.
Often a building will be torn down, then a new one built in its place. In those cases, the above applies, except that the unaltered part of the original structure is older and, likely, is in more need of examination.
We have five general inspectors with a combined total of over 45 years experience inspecting all types of buildings of all shapes and sizes. Whatever you need, we have the knowledge and resources to handle it.
Sewer Lines
When a structure is rebuilt, very likely you won’t know whether the sewer line is new or it was left untouched. Many times, the general inspector will flag the sewer line when he sees trees near the main line. But property owners commonly have had trees removed and any damage would have already been done to the sewer line unbeknownst to anyone—unless the damage is discovered when the line is scoped.
Defects are often found on even brand new sewer lines due to subpar work or human error, such as collapsed pipes which restrict flow and leads to other problems, or pipe separation which allows for root growth and results in more problems up the road.
The cost to repair these defects can range from hundreds to many thousands of dollars if excavation is needed. But without a professional sending a camera through, you won’t know either way. The below picture is from a recent inspection where significant root intrusion is visible.
Photos and recommendations from actual sewer scope.
Our sewer scope inspector has worked exclusively in construction for over 30 years, in addition to his years in plumbing and re-piping.
• General physical inspection of houses, townhomes /condos.
• General physical inspection of all types of commercial properties.
• Limited Building Inspection of systems only (reduced fee).*
• Sewer line inspection for residential & commercial (with video).
• Specialized inspections utilizing Infrared Technology.
• Home Energy Score inspections.
• Mold & Moisture inspections.
* The Limited Building Inspection does not follow ASHI or CREIA Standards. This reduced-cost inspection is performed per the Standards of Practice of the Limited Building Inspection.