What we are trained to observe:
Foundations: We aim to detect displacements and cracks.
Accessible structure: To report on the condition of interior and exterior floors and walls.
Terrain: The sloping terrain (negative) is often synonymous with flooding.
Driveways: A detailed assessment of the state of the asphalt or pavement
Roof: To check its condition and check whether the covering needs to be changed.
Humidity: We measure the humidity level, detect water infiltration and presence of mold
Insulation: Identifying heat loss through doors and windows.
Plumbing: We verify the condition of the pipes and the plumbing system in general.
Heating system: To ensure its condition and required maintenance.
Electrical system: Total compliance of the electrical panel and the entire system.
Ventilation: Inspecting the air exchanger, wall-mounted air conditioning or heat pump, which could represent major expenses in the event of breakage.
Sewers and drains: sewer connections and the presence of harmful substances in the drains.
Thermographic Inspections
A thermographic home inspection is a type of home inspection that uses infrared technology to detect areas of heat loss or insulation problems in a home. During a thermographic home inspection, a qualified inspector uses a thermal imaging camera to take pictures of various areas of the home. The camera detects and records the temperature variations of different surfaces in the home, indicating areas of potential concern.
The inspector may take pictures of the interior and exterior walls, windows, doors, and roof to identify potential heat loss or moisture problems. The images captured during the inspection are analyzed by a professional to identify any areas of concern, such as poorly insulated walls, air leaks, or water damage.
A thermographic home inspection can be especially useful for identifying problems that may not be visible to the naked eye, such as hidden leaks or moisture issues. It can also be used to identify areas that require further investigation or repair.
Thermographic home inspections are often used as part of a comprehensive home inspection, but can also be performed as a stand-alone service. They are especially useful for homeowners who are looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency, as they can identify areas of heat loss and help to prioritize energy-saving upgrades.
Common Problems In Homes:
Ferrous oxide (the presence of oxygen, water and iron in the soil combined with the reaction of several different types of bacteria)
Poly-B (composed of chlorine, it causes premature deterioration of the pipes which leads to leaks)
Pyrite (which causes concrete and stone to swell causing considerable damage to the structure of the building)
Radon (a harmful gas on long-term exposure that can cause lung cancer)
Vermiculite = (an insulation product that contains amphibolic asbestos which can be harmful to health)
Vermiculite insulation
Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that is often used as insulation in homes, as well as in gardening and construction materials. However, some vermiculite products may contain asbestos, a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems if inhaled.
In homes, vermiculite insulation may be found in attics, walls, and other areas. If the vermiculite insulation contains asbestos, it can pose a serious health risk to anyone living in the home. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and be inhaled, leading to a range of serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
The dangers of vermiculite depend on whether or not it contains asbestos, so it’s important to have any vermiculite insulation in your home tested by a professional before attempting to remove or disturb it. If you suspect that your home may contain asbestos-containing vermiculite, it’s best to avoid any unnecessary exposure and contact a professional asbestos removal service to safely remove and dispose of the insulation.
An IAC2 mold inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a residential or commercial property to determine the presence of mold and potential sources of moisture that may be contributing to mold growth. IAC2 stands for Indoor Air Quality Association Certified, which means the inspection is conducted by a certified professional who adheres to industry standards.
During an IAC2 mold inspection, the inspector will visually examine the property, looking for any signs of mold growth, water damage, and other factors that may contribute to mold growth. They may use specialized tools such as moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect hidden sources of moisture and mold growth.
The inspection will cover all accessible areas of the property, including the interior, exterior, basement, crawl space, attic, and roof. The inspector will check for areas of high humidity or moisture, leaks, water stains, and areas with poor ventilation.
The inspector will also take air and surface samples to test for the presence of mold spores. These samples are analyzed in a lab to determine the type and concentration of mold present.
The IAC2 mold inspection report will detail any mold growth found and provide recommendations for remediation and prevention of future mold growth. The report may also include photos and diagrams to help homeowners understand the issues.
Overall, an IAC2 mold inspection provides property owners with an objective assessment of the presence and extent of mold growth and helps them take necessary steps to eliminate the problem and prevent future growth.
