Five Star Property Inspections
FAQ’s
Click here for a glossary of terms used in the inspection report.
For even more detailed information please visit our Five Star Library section.
What is a Property Inspection?
A property inspection is a professional, non-invasive complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical structural
elements of a home. Our emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that would affect a purchasers buying decision.
Please view the NACHI standards of practice and code of ethics.
Why do I need a Property Inspection?
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house
you are interested in before you buy. That way you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. Our report
will also advise you of what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. A professional inspection will give you a
clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. If you are selling your home, a listing
inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the buyer’s inspector. Finding them early will allow
you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale. Please view the Buyers Page, Sellers Page
and the home Maintenance pages
Why Do I need a Home Maintenance Inspection?
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. A Home maintenance inspection is kind of like going to the doctor
for a checkup; sometimes we need an objective opinion. Many times symptoms can be diagnosed before there is a bigger
problem. See a detailed description of what a home maintenance inspection includes.
What does a Property Inspection include?
Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of
the homes heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation,
walls, doors, windows and all visible structures.
(Click here for detailed information on the various Inspection Options and what’s included with each)
Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
Absolutely, a professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy
to correct. It’s especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished. As building professionals, we may
find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or not done good work. Five Star offers various inspection options for
new construction. Our phase inspection is the most popular.
What is the difference between a standard inspection and a premium inspection?
(Click here for detailed information on the various Inspection Options and what’s included with each)
Can I have just one or two Items inspected?
Absolutely, but it is not recommended. A partial inspection only reveals part of the picture and I can only repot on what we agree to
have inspected in advance of the inspection. Of course once we inspect the property we can always add additional inspection
items. See our inspection options page.
How fast can you get to the inspection?
Five Star Customer Service is our number one goal. We will accommodate your particular needs and as a general rule we can
usually get to an inspection within a couple of days and if we can’t we will tell you and do our best to find you a reputable inspector
to fit your needs.
When do I receive my report?
We email the report within a 24 hour period. Depending on the inspection type and the detail of the report we usually deliver the
report the same day and the report is sent as an email. Within the email there will be a link to your report hosted on our web site.
(See Sample Report) We take great pride in our reporting and spend enough time to make sure you are getting everything you’re
entitled too. This is the fastest way to get your report. We can also send the report in the mail or you could pick it up at our office
the next day coped on a cd. We highly recommend using the email option and using the internet to access our website to get the
full benefit from your report. This keeps your report totally confidential and allows you to share with it easily with your realtor.
Is your report easy to read and understand?
Yes, the Five Star Reporting Solution has raised the bar in inspection reporting. We made the report easy to read and
understand. We color code text so you know what to look for in a hurry. Our Five Star Report is interactive with our website so you
don’t have filter through a 60 page report to get the information you need. Just like on this page, there are links in the report that will
take you to the information pertaining to the report. More than you could ever get from a conventional check-list report. All the
information is stored on our website so you can refer to it at any time.
(See Sample Report)
Is my repot confidential?
Yes, (please view this page on copyright and confidentially)
The home is still occupied by the seller, how does this affect the inspection?
This is a tough question, because it depends on how many furnishings are hiding items that might normally be seen during an
inspection. Property inspectors are not movers and are not required to move anything. All to often something will get broken when
moving items, or an attic is packed with storage, or a couch is blocking electrical receptacles….etc. It is for this reason we
recommend that the seller be made aware of this fact, we will not move anything.
How much does a Property Inspection cost?
(Click here for detailed information on the various Inspection Options and what’s the cost with each)
When do I pay for the inspection?
An inspection agreement is required before we can inspect any property, for liability reasons, and so we can discuss the scope of
the inspection prior to the start. Payment is expected at the end of the inspection and no report will be issued until full payment is
received. We have flexible payment options and take credit cards via Paypal. Checks or cash is always welcomed.
Can I defer my payment until the close of escrow?
No, payment is expected at the end of the inspection and no report will be issued until full payment is received. We have flexible
payment options and take credit cards via Paypal. Checks or cash is always welcomed.
Are all inspectors licensed?
No, not all states require licensing such as Missouri. In Illinois all inspectors are required to be licensed and must meet certain
educational requirements and pass a state exam. The licensed inspectors are required to follow a minimum standard and ethical
practice. Eventually all states will require licensing.
What is the difference between the NACHI & ASHI Inspection Organizations?
Not much, both organizations hold their members to a higher standard than the minimum guidelines imposed on state licensing.
Property inspections didn’t become popular until the mid 1980’s and inspection organizations were formed to help regulate the
industry, by setting up standards of practice and the ethical practices, that each member must follow while conducting
inspections. While ASHI is an older organization, NACHI is the worlds largest and has raised the bar in setting industry standards
and ethical practices, pre-certification and has international influence in regulating the inspection industry. In Illinois, the state has
set minimum standards and ethical practice guidelines and requires all home inspectors to be licensed but in Missouri anyone
can become a home inspector, although state legislation is pending, Missouri has already adopted NACHI’s standards and ethical
practices. When you do decide to hire a property inspector, I strongly recommend using either a NACHI or ASHI inspector, because
both hold their members to high standards. (Click here to view the membership requirements of NACHI members)
What does certified inspector mean?
NACHI, unlike some of the other organizations tHI has strict pre-membership
requirements that certify its members>
requirements that certify its members before they can join. We joined NACHI because they require each member hold the highest
standards and ethical practice in the industry. They require each member to under go a tough continuing education program and
require the members to provide proof of an ongoing commitment to the inspection industry. All NACHI inspectors are certified. Click
on the NACHI icon on the main pages to verify our status.
Is an inspection a guarantee or warranty?
No, a property inspection is a professional, non-invasive complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical
structural elements of a home on the day of the inspection. Conditions can change at any time and since we do not dismantle
anything, part of the home is hidden to view.
( For a more detailed explanation please view this page.)
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
We highly recommend that you be present, but No, you are not required to be there for the inspection. It’s a valuable learning
experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. By being present you can ask questions
directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. We feel you’ll be able to best understand the finished
report and get the most benefit from it by having been there during the inspection.
How long will the Inspection take?
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. The time will also vary depending on the inspection
option. For most homes, 3 hours is pretty typical. But for larger homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.
Why can’t I do the Inspection myself?
Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don’t have the knowledge, training and experience of
a professional Home Inspector. We’ve inspected thousands of homes. We are not only familiar with all the systems of a home,
and how they work and need to be maintained, but we also know what to look for to tell us that they are getting ready to fail. But
beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector
remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house, it’s impossible for you to remain completely
unemotional about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective outside
reporting of the facts.
What if the Inspection uncovers problems?
Our Five Star Report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed repairs. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to
you to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your decision to purchase. If major problems are discovered,
you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before closing the deal. Or perhaps the seller will lower the
price, or offer more favorable contract terms. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems, before
you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions. Please click here for more information on the cost
associated with homeownership or typical repair cost.
Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?
No. The code of ethics of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) prohibits its members from doing repair
work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to
provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home. Please view our code of ethics.
FAQ’s
Click here for a glossary of terms used in the inspection report.
For even more detailed information please visit our Five Star Library section.
What is a Property Inspection?
A property inspection is a professional, non-invasive complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical structural
elements of a home. Our emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that would affect a purchasers buying decision.
Please view the NACHI standards of practice and code of ethics.
Why do I need a Property Inspection?
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house
you are interested in before you buy. That way you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. Our report
will also advise you of what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. A professional inspection will give you a
clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. If you are selling your home, a listing
inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the buyer’s inspector. Finding them early will allow
you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale. Please view the Buyers Page, Sellers Page
and the home Maintenance pages
Why Do I need a Home Maintenance Inspection?
A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. A Home maintenance inspection is kind of like going to the doctor
for a checkup; sometimes we need an objective opinion. Many times symptoms can be diagnosed before there is a bigger
problem. See a detailed description of what a home maintenance inspection includes.
What does a Property Inspection include?
Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of
the homes heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation,
walls, doors, windows and all visible structures.
(Click here for detailed information on the various Inspection Options and what’s included with each)
Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
Absolutely, a professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy
to correct. It’s especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished. As building professionals, we may
find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or not done good work. Five Star offers various inspection options for
new construction. Our phase inspection is the most popular.
What is the difference between a standard inspection and a premium inspection?
(Click here for detailed information on the various Inspection Options and what’s included with each)
Can I have just one or two Items inspected?
Absolutely, but it is not recommended. A partial inspection only reveals part of the picture and I can only repot on what we agree to
have inspected in advance of the inspection. Of course once we inspect the property we can always add additional inspection
items. See our inspection options page.
How fast can you get to the inspection?
Five Star Customer Service is our number one goal. We will accommodate your particular needs and as a general rule we can
usually get to an inspection within a couple of days and if we can’t we will tell you and do our best to find you a reputable inspector
to fit your needs.
When do I receive my report?
We email the report within a 24 hour period. Depending on the inspection type and the detail of the report we usually deliver the
report the same day and the report is sent as an email. Within the email there will be a link to your report hosted on our web site.
(See Sample Report) We take great pride in our reporting and spend enough time to make sure you are getting everything you’re
entitled too. This is the fastest way to get your report. We can also send the report in the mail or you could pick it up at our office
the next day coped on a cd. We highly recommend using the email option and using the internet to access our website to get the
full benefit from your report. This keeps your report totally confidential and allows you to share with it easily with your realtor.
Is your report easy to read and understand?
Yes, the Five Star Reporting Solution has raised the bar in inspection reporting. We made the report easy to read and
understand. We color code text so you know what to look for in a hurry. Our Five Star Report is interactive with our website so you
don’t have filter through a 60 page report to get the information you need. Just like on this page, there are links in the report that will
take you to the information pertaining to the report. More than you could ever get from a conventional check-list report. All the
information is stored on our website so you can refer to it at any time.
(See Sample Report)
Is my repot confidential?
Yes, (please view this page on copyright and confidentially)
The home is still occupied by the seller, how does this affect the inspection?
This is a tough question, because it depends on how many furnishings are hiding items that might normally be seen during an
inspection. Property inspectors are not movers and are not required to move anything. All to often something will get broken when
moving items, or an attic is packed with storage, or a couch is blocking electrical receptacles….etc. It is for this reason we
recommend that the seller be made aware of this fact, we will not move anything.
How much does a Property Inspection cost?
(Click here for detailed information on the various Inspection Options and what’s the cost with each)
When do I pay for the inspection?
An inspection agreement is required before we can inspect any property, for liability reasons, and so we can discuss the scope of
the inspection prior to the start. Payment is expected at the end of the inspection and no report will be issued until full payment is
received. We have flexible payment options and take credit cards via Paypal. Checks or cash is always welcomed.
Can I defer my payment until the close of escrow?
No, payment is expected at the end of the inspection and no report will be issued until full payment is received. We have flexible
payment options and take credit cards via Paypal. Checks or cash is always welcomed.
Are all inspectors licensed?
No, not all states require licensing such as Missouri. In Illinois all inspectors are required to be licensed and must meet certain
educational requirements and pass a state exam. The licensed inspectors are required to follow a minimum standard and ethical
practice. Eventually all states will require licensing.
What is the difference between the NACHI & ASHI Inspection Organizations?
Not much, both organizations hold their members to a higher standard than the minimum guidelines imposed on state licensing.
Property inspections didn’t become popular until the mid 1980’s and inspection organizations were formed to help regulate the
industry, by setting up standards of practice and the ethical practices, that each member must follow while conducting
inspections. While ASHI is an older organization, NACHI is the worlds largest and has raised the bar in setting industry standards
and ethical practices, pre-certification and has international influence in regulating the inspection industry. In Illinois, the state has
set minimum standards and ethical practice guidelines and requires all home inspectors to be licensed but in Missouri anyone
can become a home inspector, although state legislation is pending, Missouri has already adopted NACHI’s standards and ethical
practices. When you do decide to hire a property inspector, I strongly recommend using either a NACHI or ASHI inspector, because
both hold their members to high standards. (Click here to view the membership requirements of NACHI members)
What does certified inspector mean?
NACHI, unlike some of the other organizations tHI has strict pre-membership
requirements that certify its members>
requirements that certify its members before they can join. We joined NACHI because they require each member hold the highest
standards and ethical practice in the industry. They require each member to under go a tough continuing education program and
require the members to provide proof of an ongoing commitment to the inspection industry. All NACHI inspectors are certified. Click
on the NACHI icon on the main pages to verify our status.
Is an inspection a guarantee or warranty?
No, a property inspection is a professional, non-invasive complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical
structural elements of a home on the day of the inspection. Conditions can change at any time and since we do not dismantle
anything, part of the home is hidden to view.
( For a more detailed explanation please view this page.)
Do I need to be there during the Inspection?
We highly recommend that you be present, but No, you are not required to be there for the inspection. It’s a valuable learning
experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. By being present you can ask questions
directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. We feel you’ll be able to best understand the finished
report and get the most benefit from it by having been there during the inspection.
How long will the Inspection take?
The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. The time will also vary depending on the inspection
option. For most homes, 3 hours is pretty typical. But for larger homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.
Why can’t I do the Inspection myself?
Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don’t have the knowledge, training and experience of
a professional Home Inspector. We’ve inspected thousands of homes. We are not only familiar with all the systems of a home,
and how they work and need to be maintained, but we also know what to look for to tell us that they are getting ready to fail. But
beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector
remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house, it’s impossible for you to remain completely
unemotional about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective outside
reporting of the facts.
What if the Inspection uncovers problems?
Our Five Star Report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed repairs. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to
you to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your decision to purchase. If major problems are discovered,
you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before closing the deal. Or perhaps the seller will lower the
price, or offer more favorable contract terms. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems, before
you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions. Please click here for more information on the cost
associated with homeownership or typical repair cost.
Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?
No. The code of ethics of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) prohibits its members from doing repair
work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to
provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home. Please view our code of ethics.
