How Do I Schedule?

Simply call (815) 757-1218 or email to request an appointment. 

Can I attend the inspection?

Absolutely.  We highly encourage you to follow along during the inspection.  It’s a great way to become better acquainted with all aspects of the home.

Why are you a MEMBER of ASHI?

Established in 1976, The American Society of Home Inspectors sets the standard of excellence for the Home Inspection industry.  Membership is voluntary.  A minimum of 250 inspections must be completed along with passing rigorous testing and maintaining annual continuing education credits.  Many inspectors claim to "follow ASHI standards".  A much smaller number of home inspectors achieve full membership.

I'm a first-time homebuyer.  Is it okay if I ask questions?

By all means.  We'll take our time explaining the systems and components of the home in "user-friendly" terms to be sure all your questions are answered!  Working with first-time homebuyers is one of our specialties.

How much does a home inspection cost?

Several factors influence the cost of your home inspection including; square footage of the building, distance to the property, basement or crawlspace,  fireplaces, number of heating / cooling systems, outbuildings, etc.  The average home inspection cost ranges between $275.00 - $350.00

How do I schedule?

Simply call the number listed below.  We’ll discuss a time convenient to meet at the property.  You will then need to contact your Realtor (or the home seller if “for sale by owner”) to make sure the house is open, all utilities are turned on and any "unfriendly" or "escape-prone" animals are secure.

How long does an inspection take?

The typical home inspection takes between 2-3 hours to complete, including approximately 20 minutes to generate the computerized report.

Does the seller usually attend the inspection (buyers inspection)?

It's up to you.  If you prefer the home to be vacant during the inspection, make your wishes known to your Realtor.  We have no preference.  We'll provide the same information with or without others in attendance.

I can’t attend.  Can the inspection be completed without me in attendance?

No problem.  We just need to email or fax a pre-inspection agreement for you to read, sign and return.  The inspection will be completed and the report can be sent to you via email, fax or simply handed off to your realtor or in-person representative.  We can provide digital photos with the report if so arranged.  After you’ve had an opportunity to review the report, we are happy to provide a post-inspection tele-consultation to clarify any points and answer any questions you may have at that time.

Is a typical home inspection a code-compliance inspection?

No.  A home inspection is not a code compliance inspection.  While the question occasionally comes up as to whether a home is "up to code", the typical answer will be, you would need to know what codes were enforced (if any) when the home was built.  Generally speaking, the word "code" is not a term commonly used during a home inspection.

Do you provide radon testing?

Yes, Petrie Inspections offers radon testing through our professional affiliates.

Yes, in fact, I recently received the highest results I've ever seen in northwest Illinois, this past spring - 120pc/l.  (The EPA recommends mitigation at anything over 4.0pc/l).  Check out our links page for more information.

What is a residential phase inspection?

Unlike a typical home inspection, residential phase inspections are a series of building-code-related inspections conducted during the construction of a new home or addition.  Some of the various "phases" of construction include; pre-footing - before the concrete footings are poured; pre-foundation - after the forms are set, before concrete is poured; pre-backfill - after the concrete forms are removed, any necessary dampproofing is installed, after exterior perimeter drain tiles are installed, before the dirt is filled against the foundation;  plumbing underground, electric meter base, pre-drywall inspection - after wiring, rough plumbing and rough mechanical (ductwork) is in place - before insulation or drywall; insulation inspection and then, final inspection - prior to occupancy. (The various phases depend on the design of the structure.  This list represents the most common phases in Northern Illinois).

Why would I want a residential phase inspection?

Since many jurisdictions in rural areas of northern Illinois have no formally adopted building codes or inspection staff, the only "code" enforced is the state-mandated Illinois State Plumbing Code.  Unfortunately, sometimes even these inspections are not requested by the builder and subsequently, do not occur.  Hiring a private inspection company to conduct the various phase inspections ensures the structure is being built to minimum standards.

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