ADD ANY OF THESE SERVICES ANYTIME, BEFORE YOUR INSPECTION IS COMPLETED.

Thermal Home Inspection​

infrared certified - thermal inspection

A thermal home inspection is a great way to identify defects an inspector might not be able to see with the naked eye alone.  

During the course of the thermal inspection your inspector will utilize the camera to search for a variety of defects in the home.  These include, roof defects, moisture, missing insulation and electrical abnormalities, but not always. In the dry climate of the Phoenix area, moisture evidence is short lived.   This means unless it has rained very recently, or it is an active leak, the inspector may not catch the defect at the time of the inspection.  

During the inspection we utilize the thermal camera to evaluate:  the attic, roof surfaces and inside electrical panels with deadfront cover removed. We look in the attic for signs of moisture intrusion, hidden damage and missing insulation. We access the roof surface to discover evidence of covering failures and flashing damage. At the interior inspection we are looking for moisture evidence at ceilings, walls and floors. An infrared inspection does not replace a thorough home inspection performed by a qualified inspector.  

Thermal imaging cameras can be helpful tools, but it is vital the conditions are right for them to perform as designed.  If not properly trained the thermal imaging can produce false readings which can cause clients to spend money they didn’t have to hiring experts to discover the cause of an abnormal reading.   Be wary of anyone advertising a thermal inspection as having X-Ray vision.  Though they are valuable tools and allow you to see many things you could not detect with the human eye, they are far from X-Ray vision.  

Foundation Elevation Analysis

The foundation is the most important part of a home. It is important to know what position, as well as condition, that the foundation is in when purchasing a home. This is often over-looked during many home inspections. At Southern Source Inspections, we provide you with a FREE digital analysis of the position of the home’s foundation, which helps you become more informed on it’s structural integrity, which adds tremendous value to your home inspection.

There is a limit on what you can tell regarding the condition of a foundation just by looking at it. In order to be certain, the best way is to measure it. We use State of the Art instruments that are accurate withing 1/10th of an inch to check for foundation problems. This helps us provide you with a higher level of accurate information that you need during your home inspection. We use a Smart Level, which is a device that is attached to a cable that can travel from room to room, around corners, over and under furniture, and from one side of the house to the other. This is much more accurate than a laser level, as a laser can only shoot the line of sight – it cannot tell what the elevation is in other areas.

We provide you with key measurements that you need, and also bring to your attention if any areas seem to be excessively low or high. Expensive foundation repairs are the last thing you want when you buy a home, trust us to protect your investment.

Mold & Air Quality Testing

What is Mold?

Molds are fungi. Molds grow throughout the natural and built environment. Tiny particles of mold are present in indoor and outdoor air. In nature, molds help break down dead materials and can be found growing on soil, foods, plant matter, and other items. Molds produce microscopic cells called “spores” which are very tiny and spread easily through the air. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths (colonies) when they find the right conditions.

What does mold need to grow?

Mold only needs a few simple things to grow and multiply:

·         Moisture

·         Nutrients

·         Suitable place to grow

·         Of these, controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth.

 

Should I be concerned about mold in my home?

Mold should not be permitted to grow and multiply indoors. When this happens, health problems can occur and building materials, goods and furnishings may be damaged.

 

Health Effects  

Can mold make me and my family sick?

Mold can affect the health of people who are exposed to it. People are mainly exposed to mold by breathing spores or other tiny fragments. People can also be exposed through skin contact with mold contaminants (for example, by touching moldy surfaces) and by swallowing it.

The type and severity of health effects that mold may produce are usually difficult to predict. The risks can vary greatly from one location to another, over time, and from person to person.

What symptoms might I see?

The most common health problems caused by indoor mold are allergy symptoms. Although other and more serious problems can occur, people exposed to mold commonly report problems such as:

  • nasal and sinus congestion
  • cough
  • wheeze/breathing difficulties
  • sore throat
  • skin and eye irritation
  • upper respiratory infections (including sinus)

Are the risks greater for some people?

There is wide variability in how different people are affected by indoor mold. However, the long term presence of indoor mold growth may eventually become unhealthy for anyone. The following types of people may be affected more severely and sooner than others:

  • infants and children
  • elderly people
  • individuals with respiratory conditions or sensitivities such as allergies and asthma
  • persons having weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV infection, chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients)
  • Those with special health concerns should consult a medical professional if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold.

 

Are some molds more hazardous than others?

Some types of mold can produce chemical compounds (called mycotoxins) although they do not always do so. Molds that are able to produce toxins are common. In some circumstances, the toxins produced by indoor mold may cause health problems. However, all indoor mold growth is potentially harmful and should be removed promptly, no matter what types of mold is present or whether it can produce toxins.

What Else can you do?

  • Termite Inspection – A Termite Inspection is an inspection process that looks for signs of termite infestation. During the inspection, a licensed inspector will visually inspect all accessible areas and use specialized tools such as a moisture meter and borescope to detect termite activity and damage. A Termite Inspection is important for homeowners to identify and address any potential issues before they cause serious damage to their homes.
  • Pool and Spa – A Pool and Spa Inspection typically includes a visual inspection of the pool area and equipment, such as pumps, filters, and heating systems. Additionally, the inspector will check for any signs of damage or wear to the pool structure, decking, lighting fixtures, stairs, etc. The inspector will also measure the water chemistry levels to ensure they are within the recommended range. Finally, they may recommend any necessary repairs or safety improvements.
  • Full Irrigation / Sprinkler System – A Full Irrigation/Sprinkler System Inspection typically includes a visual inspection of the system, such as checking for any visible signs of damage or wear and assessing components such as pipes, valves, heads, and timers. The inspector will also check for proper coverage by adjusting and relocating heads if needed. Another important part of the process is running and testing the controller to ensure it is functioning properly. Finally, the inspector may suggest any necessary repairs or upgrades optimize system performance.
  • Detached Structure (500SF) – When inspecting a detached structure, such as a garage or shed, the inspector will first look for signs of structural damage and assess the condition of the roof. They will also determine if there are any major deficiencies in ventilation, electrical wiring, insulation, and plumbing. The inspector will also test windows and doors to ensure that they open and close properly. Finally, they will evaluate the overall condition of the exterior and interior walls as well as note any necessary repairs or upgrades.
  • Detached Shop – When inspecting a detached structure, such as a garage or shed, the inspector will first look for signs of structural damage and assess the condition of the roof. They will also determine if there are any major deficiencies in ventilation, electrical wiring, insulation, and plumbing. The inspector will also test windows and doors to ensure that they open and close properly. Finally, they will evaluate the overall condition of the exterior and interior walls as well as note any necessary repairs or upgrades.
  •  Detached Casita – When inspecting a detached structure, such as a garage or shed, the inspector will first look for signs of structural damage and assess the condition of the roof. They will also determine if there are any major deficiencies in ventilation, electrical wiring, insulation, and plumbing. The inspector will also test windows and doors to ensure that they open and close properly. Finally, they will evaluate the overall condition of the exterior and interior walls as well as note any necessary repairs or upgrades.


Knowledge Is Power – Schedule your additional inspections at the time of the inspection so there is plenty of time to evaluate. Now is the time to identify potential issues or areas of concern. Invest in Peace Of Mind and make sure your home or property is safe and secure with the help of these additional inspections today! 

Call us at 602-757-1162 or schedule your home inspection in Chandler, AZ today!

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Pritchett Home Inspection LLC offers a reliable and comprehensive service for home inspections. We have certified inspectors with years of expertise to ensure that your property is inspected thoroughly, efficiently, and safely. Our services are honest and transparent, so you can trust that all aspects of your potential new home will be accurately evaluated. With Pritchett Home Inspection LLC, you can rest assured knowing that you’re making a smart decision regarding your home purchase.

Call us at 602-757-1162 or schedule online at www.pritchetthi.com.

Inspecting your home from top to bottom, ensuring your peace of mind. – Pritchett Home Inspection, LLC