Water damage rarely starts with a dramatic flood. More often, it begins quietly. A slow leak, melting snow, or trapped moisture can cause problems long before anyone notices. For homebuyers in Colorado, learning the early signs of water damage can prevent costly surprises after move-in.

1. Stains or Discoloration on Ceilings and Walls

One of the most recognizable signs of water damage is staining. Yellow, brown, or copper-colored marks on ceilings or walls often point to moisture intrusion. These stains may appear faint at first but tend to grow over time.

In Colorado, roof issues and snowmelt are frequent causes. Ice dams can push water under shingles during winter. Spring runoff can overwhelm drainage systems. When water travels behind drywall, it leaves stains where it finally settles.

Stains don’t always mean active leaks, but they show that water was present at some point. Old damage can still matter because materials weaken when they get wet. That history can affect repairs, resale, and future maintenance.

2. Bubbling, Peeling, or Cracked Paint

Paint and water do not get along. When moisture builds up behind painted surfaces, paint begins to bubble, peel, or crack. These changes often appear near windows, bathrooms, kitchens, or exterior walls.

In colder climates, condensation can also contribute. Warm indoor air meets cold surfaces, and moisture forms. Over time, that moisture can damage paint and drywall, especially if ventilation is limited.

3. Musty Odors or Persistent Damp Smells

Smell is a powerful indicator of water damage. A musty or damp odor often signals hidden moisture. These smells tend to linger in basements, crawl spaces, laundry rooms, or bathrooms.

In Colorado, basements are especially vulnerable during spring and early summer. Snowmelt and heavy rains raise soil moisture around foundations. If water enters through cracks or porous materials, odors can develop.

Musty smells often appear before visible damage. That makes them one of the earliest warning signs. These odors also suggest conditions that allow mold growth, which is why water damage and mold often go hand in hand.

4. Warped Floors or Soft Spots

Water affects flooring materials in different ways. Wood floors may cup, crown, or separate. Laminate can swell and buckle. Carpets may feel damp or compressed in certain areas.

Freeze–thaw cycles in Colorado can worsen these problems. Small foundation cracks expand during winter. When snow melts, water enters those gaps and reaches interior materials.

The same applies to soft spots. These deserve attention because they signal prolonged exposure. Flooring should feel firm and stable. When it doesn’t, moisture is often the cause, and repairs may extend below the surface.

5. Visible Mold or Mildew Growth

Mold is both a sign and a consequence of water damage. It thrives where moisture persists. While mold can appear anywhere, it often shows up around bathrooms, windows, basements, and previous leak areas.

Colorado’s dry climate surprises many buyers. Mold still grows here, especially indoors where moisture gets trapped. Poor ventilation and hidden leaks create ideal conditions, even in dry regions. While seeing mold does not always mean severe damage, it does mean moisture is present or was recently present. 

6. Cracks Near Windows, Doors, or Foundations

Not all cracks signal water damage, but their location matters. Cracks around windows, doors, or foundations can allow water inside. Once water enters, damage often follows.

Colorado soils expand and contract with moisture changes. That movement stresses foundations and openings. When cracks form, water follows the path of least resistance. These entry points matter because water damage often starts outside and works inward. 

How Buyers Can Tell If Water Damage Is Old or Active

Buyers often ask if water damage is still happening. Active issues usually show fresh staining, dampness, or ongoing odors. Old damage may look dry but still leaves visible marks.

Both matter for different reasons. Active water damage suggests immediate repairs. Older damage raises questions about past conditions and repairs. In both cases, understanding the source helps determine the next steps.

Home inspections often evaluate these signs in context. Inspectors look for patterns, moisture levels, and contributing factors. That process helps separate cosmetic issues from structural concerns.

Why Early Signs Matter More Than Buyers Expect

Small water issues rarely stay small. Moisture weakens materials and attracts mold. What starts as a stain or smell can grow into structural repairs if ignored.

Colorado’s weather adds urgency. Seasonal moisture cycles repeat every year. Without proper drainage and maintenance, water finds the same paths again and again.

For buyers, recognizing early signs of water damage sets realistic expectations. It helps them plan, budget, and prioritize maintenance. Awareness turns surprises into informed decisions.

What This Means for Homeownership in Colorado

Water damage is not always a deal breaker. Many homes have minor issues that are manageable with proper repairs. The key is knowing what exists before it grows.

When buyers understand water damage early signs, they gain confidence. That confidence supports smarter decisions and fewer surprises once the home becomes their own.

Insulation doesn’t get much attention when people tour a home. Buyers notice kitchens, windows, and views. Insulation usually stays hidden behind drywall and attic hatches. But in Colorado, it quietly does a lot of work every single day.

Below are three common signs your insulation might need an upgrade, and what they usually mean once you own the home.

1. Rooms Feel Cold at Night, Even When the Heat Is On

One of the clearest insulation signs shows up after sunset. The thermostat says the house is warm, but certain rooms still feel chilly. Bedrooms over garages, bonus rooms, and upper floors are common trouble spots.

This happens because insulation slows heat loss. When insulation is thin, missing, or poorly installed, warm air escapes quickly. In Colorado, nighttime temperature drops make this problem more obvious. Heat leaves faster than the system can replace it, so comfort becomes uneven.

Both older and newer homes can have this issue. Older homes may have settled insulation or outdated materials. Newer homes can have gaps or missed areas. Insulation quality matters just as much as its age.

For homeowners, this often means adjusting the thermostat more than expected. It can also lead to space heaters, which add cost and safety concerns. Over time, the house feels harder to keep comfortable, even though the furnace is working.

2. Energy Bills Are Higher Than Expected for the Home Size

Another sign shows up in the monthly budget. If heating bills feel high for the size of the home, insulation may be part of the reason. Poor insulation lets heat escape, so systems run longer and more often.

This matters in Denver, Fort Collins, and Boulder because heating seasons are long. Cold snaps are common, and nights stay cold even after warm days. Insulation helps homes hold onto heat during those swings.

Buyers sometimes assume high bills come from older furnaces or rising utility rates. Those factors matter, but insulation plays a big role. Even an efficient heating system struggles when warm air leaks out.

Insulation issues can also affect summer cooling, though usually to a lesser degree here. Hot daytime air can enter the home through under-insulated attics or walls. That forces air conditioning to work harder during peak hours.

Over time, higher energy use adds up. Insulation upgrades and routine energy checks often reduce heating cycles and improve overall efficiency. That’s why it is closely tied to long-term ownership costs, not just comfort.

3. Drafts, Cold Floors, or Big Temperature Differences Between Levels

Drafts are another common clue. You might feel cold air near baseboards or attic access points. Some rooms may feel fine, while others stay noticeably cooler.

These issues often point to insulation gaps or air leakage. Insulation works best when it forms a continuous barrier. Missing sections allow cold air in and warm air out, especially during wind and overnight temperature drops.

Floors over garages are a frequent problem area. Garages are usually unheated, so cold air rises into rooms above when insulation is lacking. Attics are another key area, because heat naturally rises and escapes upward.

Different types show up in these situations. Fiberglass batts can sag or compress over time. Blown-in insulation can settle and thin out. Spray foam tends to seal well but isn’t used everywhere.

For homeowners, these comfort issues can feel frustrating. You heat the house, but the warmth doesn’t stay where you want it. That experience often traces back to insulation performance, not just equipment.

Why Insulation Matters More in Colorado Homes

Colorado’s climate puts insulation to the test. Sunny afternoons can feel mild, but nights cool off fast. Insulation helps homes bridge that gap without constant thermostat changes.

Good insulation supports consistent indoor temperatures. It also helps protect pipes, reduces condensation risk, and eases wear on heating systems. These benefits matter whether the home is brand new or decades old.

Buyers often focus on visible features, but insulation affects daily life in quieter ways. Comfort, efficiency, and predictability all improve when the material does its job well. That’s why understanding insulation signs matters early in ownership.

What Homebuyers Keep in Mind

Insulation isn’t always easy to evaluate at a glance. Attics, crawl spaces, and walls hide most of the story. That’s why insulation questions often come up during the inspection process.

When you know the signs, surprises are less likely after move-in. That awareness helps expectations match reality, especially during the first winter, so buyers can make sense of what they’ll experience once the keys are in hand.

</p>

If you’re buying a home in Colorado, there’s a good chance radon mitigation will come up at some point

in the conversation. That’s especially true in areas like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins, where elevated radon levels are common due to local soil conditions. The good news is that radon mitigation is a well-understood, highly effective solution and far less intimidating than it sounds. Let’s dive into it.

What Is Radon Mitigation?

Radon mitigation is the process of reducing radon gas levels inside a home by safely redirecting the gas outside. The most common system used in Colorado is called Active Soil Depressurization</a> (ASD). While the name sounds technical, the concept is actually pretty simple.&lt;/span></a>

An ASD system works by pulling radon from beneath the home and venting it above the roofline, where it can safely dissipate into the outdoor air. Instead of allowing radon to enter the living space, the system gives it an easier exit route, which is exactly what radon mitigation is designed to do.

Why Radon Mitigation Is So Common in Colorado

Colorado’s geology plays a big role in why radon mitigation is frequently recommended. Much of the state falls into “https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-08/documents/colorado.pdf”>EPA Radon Zone 1, which means homes are more likely to have elevated radon levels. Much of the Front Range sits squarely in this higher-risk category.</span>

That doesn’t mean every home has high radon, but it does mean

mitigation systems are a normal and familiar sight. In some neighborhoods, they’re as common as sump pumps or air conditioning units, which helps put the conversation into perspective for buyers.

What Does a Radon Mitigation System Look Like?

Most radon mitigation systems are low-profile and designed to blend in with the home. At a high level, the system includes PVC piping, a continuously running fan, and a discharge point above the roofline. The fan creates suction that draws radon gas out from beneath the foundation.

Inside the home, you may see a small gauge called a manometer. It shows the system is working properly. While the components sound mechanical, the overall setup is quiet.  That makes for a pleasant surprise for many buyers.

How Is Radon Mitigation Installed?

Radon mitigation is typically installed after a radon test shows elevated levels, often during the inspection or negotiation phase of a real estate transaction. The installation process usually takes one day, and disruption to the home is minimal. In most cases, homeowners don’t need to move out or make major changes.

Installers customize the system based on the home’s foundation type and layout. Whether the home has a basement, crawlspace, or slab-on-grade foundation, mitigation systems are adaptable, which makes them effective across a wide range of home styles.

How Effective Is Radon Mitigation?

One of the most reassuring facts for buyers is how well radon mitigation works. Properly installed systems typically reduce radon levels by up to 99%. That brings readings well below the EPA’s recommended action level of 4.0 pCi/L.

Because the system actively manages radon over time, it’s considered a permanent solution rather than a temporary fix. Once mitigation is in place, homeowners can feel confident that radon levels are being consistently controlled.

Radon Mitigation Costs in Colorado

Radon mitigation costs in Colorado generally fall within a predictable range. For most homes, buyers can expect mitigation to cost between $1,200 and $2,500, depending on the home’s size, foundation type, and system design.

tyle=”font-weight: 400;”>Compared to many other home-related expenses, radon mitigation is relatively affordable and often negotiated as part of the real estate transaction. Understanding the cost upfront helps buyers keep the finding in perspective and move forward with confidence.</p>

New Construction vs. Existing Homes

“font-weight: 400;”>Radon doesn’t discriminate based on a home’s age. New construc

tion homes can have elevated radon levels just like older homes, which is why testing is recommended regardless of when a home was built.

Some newer homes include passive radon systems, which can often be upgraded to active systems if needed. Existing homes may require a full mitigation system. Note that both scenarios rely on the same proven principles to reduce radon effectively.

Maintenance and Monitoring After Installation

One of the biggest benefits of radon mitigation is how style=”font-weight: 400;”>little maintenance<span style=”font-weight: 400;”> it requires. Once installed, the system runs continuously with minimal homeowner involvement. Periodic visual checks of the manometer are usually all that’s needed.

style=”font-weight: 400;”>Many homeowners choose to “font-weight: 400;”>retest radon levels> every few years or after major renovations. This simple step helps ensure the system continues to perform as intended.

The Bottom Line</b&gt;</b>

<p>Experienced agents often describe radon mitigation as a standard Colorado solution to a common Colorado condition. Framing it this way helps buyers understand that mitigation isn’t unusual. It’s responsible for homeownership in this region.</span>

When buyers see mitigation as a solved problem with a proven solution, the conversation becomes calmer and more productive. Clear information leads to informed decisions, which is exactly the role radon mitigation plays in the homebuying process.

When you’re considering purchasing a new home, a thorough home inspection is a crucial step to ensure you’re making a sound investment. Choosing Scott Home Services means you can expect a full examination of all the major systems of the home – both inside and out. This even includes a variety of household appliances. As a prospective home buyer or agent, it’s a good idea to know the full scope of an inspection service before booking it. When inspecting appliances, what will your home inspector look at and test, and what falls outside the scope of their assessment? Let’s dive into this topic, and discuss what you can expect with a Scott Home Services inspection.

Inspecting Appliances: What Do We Inspect?

During a standard inspection, our inspectors test all permanent appliances in the home. This essentially includes all the basic appliances found in most modern homes including:

• Dishwasher
• Stove/Oven
• Range Hood
• Garbage Disposal
• Microwave
• Refrigerator/Freezer
• Washing Machine/Dryer
• Additional Custom Built-in Appliances

The the inspector will operate the units on their standard settings to check for proper functionality. This approach is based largely on the The Standard of Practice for Home Inspections and the Code of Ethics for the Home Inspection Profession, established by ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) and widely accepted as an industry guideline. 

It’s important to note that, while Scott Home Services includes refrigerators, clothes washing machines and dryers, the ASHI Standard of Practice in section 10.1.F does not explicitly list these as required appliances to inspect.

However, section 2.3 of the ASHI standard also states that “it is not intended to limit the inspector from including other services or systems and components in addition to those required.” Therefore, individual inspectors or inspection companies may choose to include additional appliances in their standard inspections.

What Aspects of Appliances Do We Inspect?

So now you know what appliances we inspect. But now the question is how do we inspect them? When inspecting appliances, our primary focus is, of course, whether they turn on and perform their basic functions. Additionally, our inspectors will perform certain visual assessments.

Dishwashers – The inspector will run the appliance on a short cycle, when possible. If there is any evidence of damage, rust, loose fixtures etc. it will surely be noted on the report. We always pay close attention for any apparent leaking during the cycle. In addition, the dishwasher discharge hose should also be looped and elevated above the disposal entry point (as shown below) to prevent liquid and debris from dumping back into the dishwasher.

Oven and Stovetop burners – Both the oven and stove will be operated to make sure they are functioning properly and reaching satisfactory temperatures. The inspector will take note of any apparent damage/defects, or cosmetic items – such as if the oven needs cleaning or if the oven light bulb needs to be replaced. If the oven/stove appears to be noticeably old, your inspector may recommend a replacement.

Note: We are unable to test induction stovetops, as they require induction cookware, and our inspectors do not use cookware.

Range Hood – On rare occasions, a kitchen might not have any sort of range hood or exhaust system. And while it is not technically mandated by code, it is certainly still a good idea to have some type of kitchen ventilation. In these cases, our inspectors will make note of it, and recommend installing a ventilation system. If an exhaust system is present, the inspector will be sure to run it.

Any visible issues, such as uncleanliness, missing filters, or damage will be noted on the report. If you have a gas range, the exhaust should be vented to the exterior for safety purposes (even though this is not a code requirement). Your inspector will make note if the exterior venting is not present with a gas range.

Garbage Disposal –  This one is fairly straight forward. We will make sure the garbage disposal turns on and operates properly without any damage or leaks. One important thing to check for is the proper bushing, or clamp, for the electrical wiring. This is important because it protects the electrical cord from damage caused by vibration, sharp edges, and movement.

Microwave – The inspector will run the microwave to test that its operating properly, taking note of any defects, as necessary.

Refrigerator/Freezer – Your inspector will make sure that the fridge and freezer are operational and cooling properly. Also, if there is a water and ice dispenser, they will test this for functionality.

Washing Machine/Dryer – Similar to the dishwasher, the inspector will run a brief cycle on the clothes washer and dryer (unless there are clothes inside either appliance). The inspector will check to make sure the dryer is actually heating up, that the washer is draining properly, and that there are no leaks after the cycle.

Additional Custom Built-in Appliances – There are certain less common built-in appliances that our inspectors will simply turn on and/or quickly check for functionality and condition. Items such as trash compactors, stand-alone ice makers, wine fridges or instant hot water dispensers all fall under this category.

What is Outside the Scope of Appliance Inspections

It’s crucial to understand that home inspectors perform a visual and operational check only; they do not conduct in-depth technical evaluations or repairs. While we can run short cycles and look for obvious problems, this is not a complete and total evaluation of any appliance.

Appliances have a shorter lifespan than almost any component in a home and most mechanical and electrical functionality is all hidden. This makes inspecting them a challenge. However, a limited inspection to verify correct installation and operation can catch a lot of defects if you know what you are looking for. 

There are certain aspects of appliances that typically fall outside the scope of a standard home inspection, as outlined in section 13 of the ASHI Standard of Practice. Some of the items Scott Home Services inspectors do not examine are as follows:

Dismantle system and components – It is out of the inspector’s scope to take apart or disassemble any aspect of the appliances. This type of evaluation should be performed by a specialist.

Moving Appliances – Our inspectors do not not move any appliance for any reason.

Having been an inspection company for 18+ years, it’s no surprise that we’ve seen a lot of crazy things on the job. But believe it or not, we always somehow come across new things year in and year out. So as 2024 comes to a close, we’d like to shed light on some of the most memorable inspection highlights and interesting finds this year.

Framing Fail

Hmmm…looks like the shutter frame and window opening don’t quite match up.

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Roof Top Furnace

This was a first! Furnaces can normally be found in utility rooms, basements, attics or crawlspaces. But our inspectors have never had to climb a roof in order to access a furnace. Talk about a unique location!

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Double Danger

At first glance, these two electrical panels may not seem to be problematic. However, upon closer examination, you will find that the top panel is a Federal Pacific Stab Lok panel and the bottom is a Zinsco panel. Both of these panels turned out to be serious fire hazards. Historically, these devices have been known to cause house fires and several lawsuits have been filed against their respective manufacturers. With both panels present, this property is essentially facing double the danger! These should be replaced ASAP!

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Giant Bird’s Nest

We’re used to seeing the average small bird’s nest in attics from time to time – but never one this big! This nest certainly takes the cake for size. Kudos to whatever bird built this luxurious bird mansion!

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When Nature Calls

Yes, you see it correctly. There are some thriving plants somehow growing into this bathroom through the baseboard heater. It’s the perfect way to be one with nature when nature calls.

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You Might Wanna Close That Up

That hole in the ground is an exterior access point to the sewer line (also know as a clean out). These should normally be sealed up by some type of clean out cap. A wide open clean out means that foreign objects and debris have the potential to enter the line, causing obstructions and/or damage. Definitely get that closed up!

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Hidden Sprinkler

Whoever installed the “For Sale” sign put it directly on top of one of the sprinkler heads. Not the most efficient use of water.

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Can’t Take The Pressure

One of our inspectors came across a Boulder home with extremely high water pressure. The recommended water pressure for residential buildings is 80-90 psi, and this house had a maximum reading of 180 psi! That might be the highest we’ve ever seen! (Our inspector even had to adjust the valve to a lower pressure when taking these pictures, in order to avoid damaging his pressure gauge.) Pressures that high can cause damage to appliances and piping over time, and should be adjusted.

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Donkey Sighting

It’s always a treat to see furry friends on the job. At this particular job, our inspector made friends with some outgoing donkeys!

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Are Two Doorknobs Better Than One?

This was an interesting one. The upper knob was originally a deadbolt that needed to be removed and/or updated. The homeowner decided to make it the old double knob combo instead. That’s one way to do it!

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Gutter Gap

It seems like the builders cut some corners (or should we say gutters) on this part of the project.

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Raccoon In A Chimney

One of our inspectors was taking a glance down the chimney from on top of the roof, and he spotted this little raccoon resting on the fireplace damper. Thankfully he didn’t test out that fireplace!

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Watch Your Step!

This electrical panel was installed directly over a window well. Definitely not the most ideal placement. Needles to say, it was a bit sketchy for our inspector to take a look inside the panel!

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Fast Mailbox

Having conducted thousands of home inspections, we’ve seen a lot of mailboxes. But this has got to be one of the coolest ones.

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A Dirty Dishwasher

It looks like some rodents have made the top of this dishwasher their personal potty. Yuck!

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Retro Restroom

It’s always fun to see the these throwback bathrooms in good condition. Although a carpeted restroom is not the most practical, it’s still got a funky vintage vibe.

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Crawlspace Reptile

Imagine getting into the crawlspace to find this scaly imposter lurking in the corner!

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Got AC Problems?

The inspector on this job concluded that the dog that lived on property was likely using this air conditioning unit as a peeing post. This eventually led to the corrosion visible along the exterior fins of the unit. This will certainly warrant a full replacement!

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A Little Overkill?

Plumbing vents are only supposed to extend 6 – 12 inches above the roof (depending on local code). As you can see, this one is wayyyy higher than 12 inches.

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Curious Kitten

It never gets old meeting friendly pets on the job!

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And there you have it – a recap of the some of the craziest, coolest, grossest, most dangerous and cutest inspection highlights and fails we have seen in 2024. We hope you enjoyed your year as much as we have :-) Wishing you very Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from Scott Home Services. Stay tuned for many more informative blogs to come in 2025!

When it comes to purchasing a home, it’s always wise to “look before you leap.” In other words, buyers should familiarize themselves with a property as much as possible before taking that final, monetary “leap.” That’s why home inspections are so crucial.

By hiring a qualified professional to conduct an inspection, a home buyer will be able to learn more about the property and its concerns, if any. That way, when it’s time to make the final decision on whether or not to proceed with the deal, the buyer will be able to make a choice that is educated and informed.

There are three main types of inspections, each with its own pros and cons: General Home Inspections, Walk & Talk Inspections, and Specialized Inspections. In this blog, we will break down each of these inspection types. By the end, we hope that you will know which inspection is right for you!

General Home Inspections

This is the most common type of inspection. During a general inspection, the inspector will cover all major systems and components of the home. These inspectors are usually certified by one (or both) of the industry standard home inspection associations (InterNACHI or ASHI). They will also follow the inspection standards established by ASHI.

Inspectors will be well equipped with a solid base of knowledge regarding all components of the home. However, they will not necessarily be specialists. As a result, some of the issues identified during the inspection may be out of the scope of the inspector’s knowledge. In these cases, the inspector will recommend consultation with the necessary expert.

This general inspection covers every aspect of a home and will call out minor items and major items. A full comprehensive home inspection gives you a detailed snapshot in time of the condition of the home.

At the end of the inspection, you will be provided with an extensive, detailed report that illustrates all of the concerns noted onsite. The inspector will present his/her findings, and the buyer or agent will have an opportunity to ask any questions.

To see an example of a Scott Home Inspection Report, click here.

One of the most significant benefits to a general home inspection is that you can use the inspection report as a negotiation tool. If the buyer and agent plan to make any objections, the report can be utilized as a viable source of professional documentation. Simply put – your objection claims are more likely to be accepted when backed by a licensed home inspector.

Walk & Talk Inspections

Compared to standard home inspections, walk & talk inspections are much more of a general overview. While the inspector does do a full overview of the home, it is much quicker and less thorough than a general home inspection.

These types of inspections are especially good with “as is” home transactions. Sometimes buyers know that, if they want to make an offer, they will have to do so without a home inspection.

This type of inspection is somewhat of a work-around in situations where buyers need to waive their inspection in order to make a competitive offer. In these cases, an inspector will join the prospective buyer(s) and their agent during an initial tour of the home.

The inspector will walk the premises and give a verbal evaluation of the home as he/she walks along. Due to the short duration of these inspections, the inspectors will mainly keep an eye out for big ticket items that could potentially be deal breakers.

The inspector will not be entering attics, removing electric panels, opening HVAC units etc. A flashlight is the only tool utilized during a walk & talk. Also, given its brief and general nature, a walk & talk inspection does not need to adhere to ASHI inspection standards.

Contrary to a general inspection, there are usually no written reports during a walk & talk. Buyers are encouraged to take notes on their own during the process. This can be an effective method for the buyer if they are just interested in learning more about the property. However, in the case that contract objections are permitted, it might be harder for the buyer to negotiate without an official inspection report.

It is also worth noting that walk & talk inspections will be the cheapest of the three home inspection options.

If you do go under contract, it is still a good idea to get a full home inspection (even if you already had the walk & talk). But in this competitive market, sometimes that is just not an option and you must waive the inspection all together.

Specialized Inspections

Specialized inspections involve hiring an expert to evaluate a particular component of the home. You can hire out any type of specialist depending on your needs. Some examples are structural engineers, plumbing specialists, roofing contractors etc.

These inspections can be quite beneficial, in that you get a more in-depth evaluation and inspection report of the specific component in question. Also, one of their key benefits is that you can usually get accurate estimates on repairs. This is different from a general home inspection, where the inspector can evaluate concerns but usually cannot present repair estimates. And when it comes time to make any contract objections, specialized inspection reports can prove to be very strong negotiation tools.

The disadvantage of getting multiple specialists instead of a general home inspection is you are more focused on single components and don’t get the bigger picture of the overall condition of the home. It is usually best to get a general home inspection in addition to any specialized inspections.

Specialized inspections also get pretty costly – especially if you wish to hire multiple specialists. However, hiring a specialist might help you acquire the valuable information you need to make your final decision on the deal.

In many cases, buyers will hire out specialized inspections due to a known existing concern. For instance, the seller might disclose that the home had previous foundational issues. In that situation, it’s probably prudent to hire a structural engineer to evaluate the current condition of the foundation.

As you can see, there are numerous options and combinations when it comes to choosing the right home inspection. It really all depends on your specific situation and preferences. We hope this blog has helped to provide you with some more clarity on the matter

Scott Home Inspections

At Scott Home Inspection, a division of Scott Home Services, LLC, we specialize in general home inspections. This has been our flagship service for 15+ years; and we are one of the leading home inspection companies in Colorado. It is also the most common inspection type that agents recommend.

When you choose to have Scott Home Inspection perform your pre-purchase home inspection, our support doesn’t end with the inspection and report. Through our Ask Your Inspector program, we provide ongoing support to you via email, phone calls, and with our extensive knowledge base of information.

If you are in need of an inspection, we hope that you will consider Team Scott! Feel free to visit us online for more info or contact us to schedule your service today. We are here to help you “look before you leap!”

Purchasing a home is a whirlwind of a process with lots of moving parts. Sometimes it’s hard to know what to do and when to do it, especially if you are a first time home buyer. One of the most crucial stages of the home buying process is the home inspection.

As a home inspection company, our clients will commonly ask: “what should I do during the inspection?”

We know it can get overwhelming, but not to worry! Because in this article, we will break down what to do when it is time for your inspection.

Attend the Home Inspection

First of all, if you are able to attend the inspection, it is a good idea to do so. It is commonly accepted that, as the buyer, you may be present while the inspection is conducted. If you are unable to attend the inspection, it helps to have your agent or an authorized representative attend on your behalf.

We will generally inform our clients about the approximate length of the inspection, and when the inspector will be ready to present his/her summary. (This is an estimate based on the size and age of the house).

In some cases, buyers and agents will arrive around summary time. However, you are welcome to be onsite for the duration of the whole inspection.

Get to Know the Home

You probably saw the house online and likely went to an in-person showing. But the inspection will give you a chance to spend more time and really get familiar with the property. Take advantage!

Be sure to come armed with a tape measurer. Now is the time to plan for that perfectly-sized couch or dining room table, or whether or not to go with a queen or king-sized bed.

This is also the time to find all the important controls in the home. Our inspectors will show you the location of the main water shut-off, electrical box, thermostats, and any other crucial controls.

During your time at the home, you should make observations on your own and take note of any questions or concerns that may arise. That way, when it comes time for the inspection summary, you will be prepared to pick your inspector’s brain.

Following Along with Your Inspector

While you explore your potential new home, your inspector will be hard at work, carefully examining each aspect of the residence. There is no need to follow the inspector every step of the way, as he/she will cover each item in detail during the summary. However, it can be beneficial to observe the big ticket items, such as the foundation, HVAC system, water heater, and electrical.

These are some of the most important facets of the home, and certain defects or damage to these components could mean costly repairs. So naturally, it is paramount for the inspector to convey any major concerns in a clear and understandable manner. In many cases, it’s easiest for the inspector to articulate these types of issues by showing you in person.

Home Inspection Summary

When the home inspection is complete, it is standard to have an in-person summary. During this time, the inspector will highlight all the items of concern. At Scott Home Inspection, our inspectors divide their observations into 3 main categories: maintenance items, repair recommendations, and immediate action recommendations. 

To see a sample of our Home Inspection Reports, click here

Utilizing this categorical system, the inspector will help you to understand what issues are most important to address. Once the inspector has concluded his/her summary, it is now your time to fire away with any questions or concerns. Our inspectors are highly experienced, knowledgeable, and happy to address any issues you may have.

In addition to a full onsite summary and discussion, we will send you the full report that same day. You can also reach out with any additional questions that might come up later on.

At Scott Home Inspection, it is our priority to make sure you walk away from the inspection feeling comfortable and confident to take the next step (whatever that step may be). If you are in need of a home inspection, feel free to reach out for more information or to schedule your inspection today!

So you bought a brand new house, and it is seemingly flawless! However, after living in it for a few months, you start to notice some defects here and there. This is a very common occurrence. The fact is that, with something as complex and multi-faceted as a house, mistakes can happen – even with the best builders in the business. That is why most contractors provide a one year warranty on new builds.

It’s a great opportunity to take advantage of the builder’s warranty so that before the year is up, your home can be made to meet most all of your expectations. The best way to get the most from your warranty is to receive an expert and unbiased assessment of the home. This is why you should consider a One Year Warranty Inspection. 

What is a One Year Warranty On A Residential Home?

Most new homes come with some type of one year warranty (also known as a builder warranty). The coverage varies from builder to builder, so it’s your responsibility as the new homeowner to be familiar with your coverage.

The warranty will generally cover workmanship items such as siding, drywall, doors and trim, paint, etc. It will also cover major components of the home such as electrical, plumbing, floor systems, roofing, load-bearing walls, and ductwork.

Most building companies provide their own coverage or outsource to a third-party warranty company. The cost of this warranty plan is almost always factored into the overall price of the home, so you won’t have any additional monthly fees.

Beware that builder warranties can be limited. For example, they generally don’t cover appliances that are under the manufacturer’s warranty. They are also not going to cover damage incurred by natural disasters or storms unless the damage is due to the builder’s error. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any limitations that your warranty may have to avoid costly surprises down the road.

What is a One Year Warranty Inspection?

After living in a home for some time, you may start to notice some issues. Some may be minor and others larger, but there may also be some things that you don’t catch. The last thing you want is for your warranty to expire, without identifying and having the opportunity to address any significant issues.

That’s why hiring a professional to take a fine-tooth comb over the home and premises is a wise decision. When one of our inspectors comes out to take a look, he can address any of the concerns that you have already experienced, and can additionally shed light on any other problems that may have been overlooked.

A one year warranty inspection is one of the many specialized services we offer at Scott Home Inspection. This service covers all of the major systems included in our standard home inspection:

Lots and Ground, Exterior Surfaces, Roof and Attic, Electrical Systems, Heating and Cooling Systems, Plumbing Systems, Interior Conditions, Appliance Functionality, Sprinkler Systems (During Summer).

Other Important Things You Should Know

It’s generally a good idea to schedule a one year warranty inspection about 10 months after you move into your new home. That gives you plenty of time before the warranty expires. The last thing you want is to miss out on that warranty window!

This will also give your inspection company ample time to fit you into their schedule. Scott Home Inspection is ready to help with this type of inspection as well. When it comes to your builder warranty, we want to make sure we can meet your needs before the one year deadline is up!

As the homeowner, you will be responsible to speak with your contractor about any issues you find. When it comes to builder warranties, an inspection is not required, but you can present the issues you have found on your own and likely negotiate the necessary repairs.

However, when armed with a comprehensive home inspection report completed by a certified home inspector, you will have even more leverage. Our inspectors know how to identify issues and recommend the necessary repair methods in their reports. This report can then be used as a valuable tool to encourage builders to make the repairs properly and timely.

While our warranty inspection reports do not guarantee that items will be fixed, since sometimes certain items are not covered by the builder warranty,  the report is simply a way to shed light on all of the observed problem areas.

If you are coming up on one year in your new home and looking to take advantage of your warranty, please feel free to reach out for more info or to book your inspection today!