How is a Home Inspection Performed?
While touring and inspecting the prospective property, your Tiger Home Inspector completes an itemized list, which contains a rating system, and written comment section that is unique to
the property being purchased. At the conclusion of the inspection, you receive a copy of the inspection report on site (as opposed to a less descriptive narrative completed offsite).
What is the difference between a narrative and an itemized list with a written commentary?
A narrative is a typical "boiler plate" with a written explanation completed after the home inspection has been performed. It is usually a group of paragraphs, "plugged in" and written offsite. Frequently, it takes
between 3-10 days to receive in the mail.
An itemized list is the Inspector's actual rating of each area in detail, completed on-site, during an inspection. The report also includes specific written comments by the Inspector about
the property. At the completion of the home inspection, you receive the inspection report prior to leaving the property.
What is the cost of a Home Inspection?
We offer different plans for home inspections, depending upon the range of services the customer desires. For more information, contact our Customer Service Representatives for specifics at 1-800-62-TIGER.
When should I have a home inspection?
Most often, after an initial offer has been accepted and deposit is made on a property, a customer generally has a 5-10 day period to contact a professional Home Inspector.
Who arranges for the inspection?
The buyer has the obligation to arrange for the inspection. Please call Tiger to arrange an inspection at 1-800-62-TIGER.
How long
does a home inspection take?
For an on-site report, customized to your needs, the inspection
typically takes 2 to 3 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Radon
How can you protect your home?
What is radon?
Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas. It comes from the
natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils.
It typically moves up through the ground to the air above
and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation.
Any home can have a radon problem. In the U.S. it is estimated
that nearly 1 out of 15 homes has an elevated radon level.
How do I know if I have radon in my home?
Testing is the only way to know if you are at risk. Radon
gas is invisible and odorless. Both long- and short-term testing
devises are available. A homeowner should consult a radon
professional to determine what type of test is best suited
for his situation.
What is the risk associated with radon?
Radon gas increases the risk of getting lung cancer. Your
chances of getting lung cancer from radon gas depend on factors
such as the home’s radon level, the amount of time you
spend in your home and whether you are a smoker or have ever
been a smoker. Recent studies estimate that between 15,400
and 21,800 deaths per year are attributable to radon gas.
Where should I test for radon gas?
The test should be conducted in the lowest livable level of the house which is usually the basement. The test kit should be placed at least two feet above the floor. All windows and outside doors on the level you are testing should be closed during the test. All windows and outside doors should be closed 12 hours prior to and during the test period.
What is an acceptable level for radon gas?
The current U.S. EPA guideline is a radon gas level lower
than 4 picocuries per liter of air (4pCi/L). In Canada the
federal government has recommended that the Canadian acceptable
level for radon should be 800 becquerels per cubic meter of
air (800 Bq/m3).
Can a radon problem be fixed?
Yes. Even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels.
A radon professional is qualified to evaluate and install
a system to solve the problem. In most cases these systems
involve the installation of a fan and ducting to help prevent
radon gas from entering your home. The fan operates continuously;
ductwork runs from below the basement floor to above the roofline
where the radon gas is safely discharged. Generally these
systems are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. The
radon mitigation contractor will design the best system for
your home.
How important are post-mitigation tests?
Very important! It is the only way to know if your system
is working effectively. The radon professional will leave
instructions on how to prepare for and conduct this post-mitigation
test.
If I make improvements to my house such as an addition
or structural changes, should I retest?
Yes, as these changes may affect radon gas levels. Retesting
after the completion of any construction is recommended. It
is also advisable to consult a radon professional prior to
any construction.
Is radon only a problem in certain parts of the
country?
High radon levels have been found in every state. Radon problems
do vary from area to area, but the only way to know your radon
level is to test.
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