WHY IS ABI DIFFERENT FROM OTHER HOME INSPECTORS?
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ABI home inspections are conducted by highly qualified, licensed and insured inspectors that provide our clients with a computer-generated report with images.
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WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVE?
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Do not hesitate to contact us if you need an inspection in any of the metro areas of Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, Cambridge, New Bedford, Brockton, Quincy, Lynn, Fall River and Cape Cod.
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DISCOUNTS
$50 - First time home buyer certificate holder (3 years w/ certificate)
$50 - Boston Medical Center Employees (w/ ID)
HOME AND COMMERCIAL INSPECTION PROCESS
How much does an inspection cost?
The cost of a home or commercial inspection varies based on many factors including the number of units, square footage, as well as the age, value, and complexity of the property. Please go to our pricing page for fees or contact us to receive an accurate quote.
How long does an inspection take?
The actual time varies, according to the home or commercial property size and complexity. However, an average inspection takes about 2.5 hours.
Can I accompany the inspector during the inspection?
Yes, in fact, we encourage it. You’ll be able to see what the inspector sees and ask questions as the inspection progresses. It is well worth your while to be present during the inspection.
What does the inspector look at?
An inspector makes a visual inspection of the structure and major interior systems of the building. He or she will only view readily accessible areas. A home or commercial inspection is not intended to point out every small problem, or invisible or latent defect. For example, torn wallpaper, though unsightly, would not be noted on an inspection report. However, the inspector does evaluate the overall condition of the home and its important systems.
Listed below is a partial list of some of the components of a building we inspect.
Exterior
Grading, walls, coverings, patios, decks, patio covers, sidewalks, driveways, soffits, fascias, doors, windows, trim, gutters, downspouts, retaining walls, fences, and gates.
Structure
Foundation, crawlspace, footings, columns, floors, walls, and chimneys.
Roofing
Structure coverings, flashings, skylights, vent,s and stacks.
Electrical
Service entrance, grounding panel, sub-panels, branch circuits, outlets, GFCI outlets, and circuit integrity.
Heating and A/C
Combustion systems, a/c components, supply, discharge lines, venting, ductwork, registers, controls, and thermostats.
Plumbing
Main supply line, distribution lines, fixtures, vents, traps, drains, and functional flow.
Insulation
Attic, walls, crawlspace, floors, lines, ductwork, air, and vapor barriers.
Interior
Walls, ceilings, windows, floors, doors, stairs, and fireplaces
When should I schedule an inspection?
Typically, an inspector is hired after an Offer to Purchase contract is signed, and before the final purchase and sales agreement is signed.
How will the inspector report the results?
We provide a written report detailing the results of our inspection. The report will include information on the condition of the building, list any visible, apparent problems, point out areas where there is a risk of concealed damage, list where repairs need to be made, and say whether further investigation is recommended or required.
We also provide a verbal report of the results, so that you can ask questions.
What if I have questions about the inspection results?
Please call us if you have any questions about the inspection. We welcome and encourage questions because our job is to give you a much clearer picture of the condition of the home you are about to buy.
Can I obtain an inspection after buying a building?
Owners often order inspections, for a number of reasons. The most common reason is that the owner is planning to sell the building, and would like to find and address any problems before putting the building on the market.
Is a home or commercial inspection the same as a code inspection?
No, a building code inspection is a completely different type of inspection.
Can an inspection be used to set the value of a property?
No, an inspection is not the same as an appraisal.
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