1. WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?

A home inspection by Northern Glory Home Inspections is an objective, visual evaluation of a property’s physical structure and operational systems — from roof to foundation.

 

The goal is to provide you with a clear understanding of the home’s condition, so you know what you’re buying or what maintenance may be required.

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2. WHY SHOULD I GET A HOME INSPECTION?

A home inspection provides a detailed report on the property’s condition, revealing defects or maintenance needs. This knowledge allows you to make informed decisions, negotiate repairs, and avoid costly surprises after purchase.

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3. IS THE INSPECTION A PASS / FAIL TEST?

No. The inspection identifies issues and their severity but does not “pass” or “fail” a home. It’s a tool for buyers to assess the condition of the home and decide how to proceed.

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4. WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTION INCLUDE?

​Here’s what a typical home inspection includes:

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 -Exterior and Roof: Examination of roof coverings, flashings, skylights, gutters, and exterior walls, siding, windows, doors, soffits, and fascia. Identification of any indications of leaks, material wear, or structural issues.

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 -Foundation, Basement & Crawl Spaces: Assessment of foundation condition, visible signs of settlement or cracking, moisture intrusion, and structural wood in contact with soil.

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 -Interior Components: Inspection of walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows (including operation and seal integrity), stairways, safety rails, kitchens, bathrooms, and most built‑in appliances (testing basic functionality).

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 -Plumbing Systems: Review of water supply pipes, fixtures, toilets, tubs, showers, drainage, venting; location of the main shutoff valve; checking water heater operation, venting, and safety components.

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 -Electrical Systems: Assessment of service panels, circuit breakers or fuses, receptacles and switches, GFCI/AFCI protection where required; checking visible wiring and safety issues.

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 -Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): Operation of heating and cooling systems (as safely accessible), inspection of ductwork/ventilation, checking condition of filters and safety of combustion appliances where applicable.

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 -Insulation & Ventilation: Evaluating attic and crawlspace insulation; ventilation of those spaces; potential moisture or mold indicators.

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 -Structural Elements: Examination of framing, roof structure, floor joists, load‐bearing walls, beams, and any visible damage or degradation.

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 -Site and Drainage Conditions: Grading, drainage around the home, gutters/downspouts directing water away, walkways, driveways for cracks or settlement that could affect structure or water intrusion.

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If during the inspection any issues or symptoms of potential problems are found (for example, signs of water intrusion, structural movement, electrical hazards, etc.) we may recommend that you seek further evaluation by a specialist (such as a structural engineer, plumber, electrician, or HVAC contractor).

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5. HOW LONG DOES AN INSPECTION TAKE?

Most inspections take between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property.

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6. DO I NEED TO BE PRESENT DURING THE INSPECTION?

While your presence is not required, we strongly recommend attending. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the home, ask questions, and better understand the inspector’s findings.

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7. WILL I RECEIVE A REPORT AFTER THE INSPECTION?

Yes. You’ll receive a detailed, easy-to-understand written report highlighting findings, photos, and recommendations. Should you have any questions, you can always call us to discuss them. Most reports are delivered by email, on the same day. 

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8. CAN A HOME INSPECTION DETECT EVERY ISSUE?

No inspection can guarantee to find every problem, especially those hidden behind walls or inaccessible areas. However, we conduct a thorough assessment of visible and accessible components.

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9. WHAT IF THE INSPECTION REVEALS ISSUES?

Discovering issues does not mean you should not buy the home. The report helps you negotiate repairs, adjust your offer, plan maintenance, or reconsider your decision based on the findings.

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10. HOW MUCH DOES AN INSPECTION COST?

Inspection fees depend on the home’s size and any optional services you may request. Please contact us for a customized quote.