Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions

A: This is sometimes the first question asked and yet it tells the least about the inspector. It has never been our goal to be the cheapest inspection in town–only the best. The cost of the inspection is one of the least expensive costs during the real estate transaction, yet it can save you from a massive cost outlay and unpleasant surprises. There are several factors that determine the cost of a home inspection: the type of inspection requested, including the type and size of a property and whether it is a new construction or an existing property. Call us @ 360-588-6956 and we can give you an accurate quote for your future home. Our inspections include a 90 day home warranty. A quality inspection backed by years of experience may require a higher investment, but it will save you both money and time by eliminating unnecessary headaches later on down the line. Do you really want to go with the cheapest or the best?

A: For the seller, the best time is prior to listing the house for sale. The inspection will discover any potential issues and the seller will then have time to fix them before they become an obstacle to the sale. For the buyer, the best time to inspect a house is immediately after both parties sign the contract. Most contracts stipulate inspections must be performed within 10-15 days of signing.

A: When real estate is sold AS IS, it may mean there are serious problems wrapped up in the AS IS label. AS IS is a home buying trap you do not want to be caught in. Our home inspectors will tell you what AS IS is. AS IS has killed the joy of moving to a new home. AS IS has killed the spirit of many first time home buyers. Don’t be caught by the AS IS home buying trap waiting to snare you. In many cases during the home inspection we discover issues that the sellers did not disclose and will be expensive to repair. In many cases this has resulted in the seller making concessions to compensate for the repairs.

A: A pest inspection is a limited inspection for the presence of wood destroying organisms and conditions that are likely to cause pest problems. It does not cover the electrical system, the plumbing system, the roof, the appliances, the heating system or most other aspects of a home.

A: If your the buyer, You will want to book a inspection when you have a signed contract on a property. Only then will you have a definite window of time (usually 5 to 10 days) in which you may choose to hire an inspector. Pacific Crest Inspections can usually schedule an inspection on 48 hours notice, and sometimes on as little as 24. You should have some possible dates and times worked out with your real estate agent or broker–which they should confirm with the seller for access to the property (and to occupied units in the case of investment property)–prior to calling an inspector.

A: A summary of the report will normally be delivered onsite to the customer. The final detailed reports are usually completed and delivered within 24 hours. On request a copy will be posted on a secure internet site. Here is a sample of our report

A: We are readily available to answer any questions regarding the inspection. In fact, we are called upon to answer questions years following the inspection.

A: While you may have complete confidence in your developer, he or she will most likely parcel out certain work to subcontractors (electricians, cabinet specialists, etc.) whom you won’t know. A popular developer will also most likely be involved in more than one project at a time, and probably won’t be on site to oversee every detail of the construction process or to coordinate work which requires the specialties of more than one subcontractor. A final new construction inspection will not only give you objective information about how the dwelling is constructed, but will also let the developer know that you are aware of what still needs to be done or what needs to be changed before acceptance.

A: Home Inspector licensing began in Washington in August of 2009. Since Pacific Crest was part of a legislative advisory group that helped shape the law. Currently we are licensed by the State of Washington to perform Home Inspections. Pacific Crest Inspections’ quality systems exceeds the standards of practice for Washington State Home Inspectors.

Pacific Crest Inspections is bonded, has general liability and carries E& O insurance that covers the inspector while onsite and any damage or injury that may happen during an inspection.

A: Yes. In accordance with reporting guidelines, inspectors will assess pest or fungal damage. If past or current wood destroying organism damage is detected, it will be noted in the inspection report with the recommendation that a specialist be contacted.

A: Pacific Crest Inspections does not offer repair services, due to a possible conflict of interest. An inspector may be able to verbally estimate a cost range for certain repairs to give the buyer a rough idea. On request, we can provide a list of contractors who may be able to do the repairs for you.