Access Areas


  • Electric Panel- The inspector will need to remove the panel cover. Please ensure there is 3 feet of access to either side of the panel for safety purposes.

  • Furnace and Hot Water Tanks- The inspector will need to approach and inspect these areas. Please ensure there is a clear area around these appliances for a proper and safe inspection.

  • Crawlspace Access- The best practice is to have the access open to the inspector before they arrive. Please ensure there is a clear path through the crawlspace to any mechanical areas such as furnaces or main water supply.

  • Attic Access- Please leave enough room for the inspector to safely access the attic by ladder. The inspector will not remove personal belongings in order to gain access.

  • Garage- If you have a garage to be inspected, the inspector will need to be able to open and close garage overhead doors, passage doors to the interior and exterior of the garage. (Don't forget access to the garage attic if you have one).


Licensed Home Inspector Va. #3380001000 With NRS Designation. EXP 6/30/25.
Virginia Association of Real Estate Inspectors. 
Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association.
Certified Master Inspector. EXP. 6/30/2025.
Certified Building Inspections is a member of NACHI.

Prepare For Inspection

In order for the inspector to completely evaluate the condition of your home, here are some tips to aid the inspector before the inspection.

 Appliances and General Information  


  • Refrigerator- Make sure the refrigerator is turned on, and has had time to cool down.​​

  • Oven/Range/Cooktops-Please remove all items from cooktops and ovens, as the home inspector will be operating the cooking elements verifying correct operation.

  • Dishwashers- The home inspector will be operating the dishwasher to check for correct operation.

  • Clothes Washers and Dryers- The home inspector will be operating the clothes washer and dryer, please ensure both appliances are empty.

  • The home inspector will look under EVERY SINK. Please remove the items stored under the sink that will block the view of the plumbing supply lines and drain lines. (Thank You)​

  • The home inspection service will take from 2½  to 4 hours to complete, you are strongly encouraged to attend.


Home Inspections 

A successful home inspection service is performed by an experienced licensed professional and is a subjective, unbiased, professional opinion of the condition of the home.

As home inspectors, we would like for our clients to get the dream home they are looking for, with the information they need to make an educated decision on their home purchase.

Hire a Certified Master Inspector like myself, because peace of mind is priceless when it comes to your home.

​Benjamin Clarke

Outside 


  • The inspector will need to see around the perimeter of the entire home. Ensure there is a clear path for the inspector to walk around the home, and to safely set up ladders if needed.

  • Inspectors are looking at the foundation of the home. Remove stored items,  garbage bins or anything else that blocks visibility. These items can be in the yard area or against fences.

  • In particular, inspectors need to be able to access the gas meter, electric meter, hose bibs, electrical outlets any entrances, windows or similar areas.

  • Pets should be contained or removed during the home inspection. We love pets but the inspector will be opening and closing doors and windows and can not keep an eye on pet activities, or work around them.

  • Please remove the clutter on balconies, decks, and patios to allow the home inspector to view these areas. (Don't worry about the BBQ or deck furniture).

Utilities


  • Electrical, water and gas services should be on for inspection purposes.

  • Ensure pilot lights are lit in all gas appliances such as fireplaces and furnaces. Certified Building Inspections cannot light pilot lights for reasons of  liability, and will write up these appliances as needing further investigation.

  • Replace burned out light bulbs in light fixtures.

  • Label known defects (like a leaky shower) to prevent the inspector from doing any damage.

  • The inspector will be looking for the main water supply. Please provide access and remove covers if it is concealed behind interior finishes.