FAQ
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of the accessible areas of a residential property. It is designed to identify observed material defects within specific components of the home (such as the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems) at the time of the inspection.
Why do I need a home inspection?
Whether you are buying or selling, an inspection provides an objective "physical" of the home. For buyers, it offers peace of mind and helps avoid costly surprises. For sellers, it provides an opportunity to make repairs before listing, ensuring a smoother closing process.
How long does an inspection take?
On average, a standard single-family home inspection takes 2 to 4 hours depending on the size, age, and condition of the property.
Should I be present during the inspection?
While not required, we highly recommend that you attend for the final hour. This allows us to walk through the property together, point out any findings, and answer your questions in real-time.
What parts of the house do you inspect?
Our comprehensive inspections cover:
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Exterior: Roof, gutters, siding, grading, and foundation.
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Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors.
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Systems: HVAC (Heating/Cooling), Plumbing, and Electrical.
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Attic & Crawlspaces: Insulation, ventilation, and structural integrity.
Do you offer additional testing like Radon or Sewer Scopes?
No, we do not offer these specialized tests at this time. Our expertise is focused on the structural home inspection. However, we are happy to work alongside your chosen specialists or provide a list of local vendors we trust to help you streamline the process.
When will I receive my report?
We know timing is critical during real estate transactions. You will receive a digital, easy-to-read report within 1 business day of the inspection.
What happens if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect, including brand-new builds. The report is a tool to help you understand the home’s current condition. It doesn’t mean the house "failed," but it gives you the information needed to make an informed decision or negotiate repairs.
How far in advance should I schedule?
Real estate timelines move fast. We usually recommend scheduling 3 to 5 days in advance, though we always do our best to accommodate last-minute requests within your contingency period.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we certainly are! Vantage Home Inspections is fully licensed, bonded, and insured in accordance with Oregon state requirements. We believe in total transparency and professional accountability, ensuring that both you and your investment are fully protected throughout the inspection.
What Reporting software do you use?
We use Spectora, widely recognized as the gold standard in the home inspection industry for its speed, clarity, and precision. This advanced platform ensures your property data is delivered in a clean, mobile-friendly format with high-resolution visuals and intuitive navigation.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that real estate timelines can be unpredictable and plans sometimes change. You can cancel or reschedule your inspection at any time; however, because we reserve a specific time block for your property, we require at least 12 hours' notice.
Yes. To cover the scheduling and administrative costs of a last-minute vacancy, a $100 cancellation fee applies to any inspection canceled or rescheduled within 12 hours of the original appointment time.