Residential Services Available Services Pre-purchase home inspections Pre-construction plan examination and in-process construction inspections Structural and mechanical consultations for homeowners Seller inspections PSMA-certified septic inspections Water testing Radon testing Lead paint testing Mold and mildew testing efore buying stock in a company, you evaluate its track record of performance. Before purchasing a precious antique, you research its provenance. As with any worthwhile investment, buying a home should involve taking a careful look at what you're getting for your money. It simply doesn't make sense to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars for a new or existing home without an expert evaluation. Few buyers have the expertise to make an objective evaluation, particularly when the emotional experience of buying a home often blinds us to the realities beyond the facade. A quality inspection helps you make better decisions. It can also save money and expensive surprises. Being aware of potential problems and necessary repairs will enable you to plan and budget for the next five to ten years of ownership. And since "forewarned is forearmed," you will have the peace of mind that brings maximum enjoyment from your new home. What do we examine? Criterium-Lalancette Engineers covers the following "check-points" in its standard evaluation: Roof surfacing Foundation Visible framing Basement water problems Settlement Overall structure Condensation Rot Heating unit Water pump Heat distribution Air conditioning Water heater Piping Electrical capacity Electrical distribution Plumbing fixtures Interior finishes Windows General energy efficiency Gutters and downspouts Storm windows Exterior finishes/paint Driveways/walkways Retaining walls Wood destroying insect inspections Chimneys and fireplaces Fire/safety hazards Septic system Swimming pools/tennis courts Hazardous materials (visual scan) Ventilation The Report Once all of the above elements have been evaluated, you will receive a written report consisting of: Summary of major systems Summary of deficiencies Detail of systems General repair suggestions Unless otherwise noted, our building evaluations are based on visual evidence reasonably available during our inspection. While not a specific guarantee, our report can be considerd a sound engineering opinion based on years of experience examining thousands of structures. Observations and conclusions may be limited since conditions could exist that would not be known during our inspection.