Inspection Coverage

Complete Mold Inspection in the Phoenix AZ area

Home Inspection Services

Mold problems in interior spaces can occur in any region, including Phoenix, AZ. Despite its arid climate, mold can still develop indoors due to factors such as moisture intrusion, water leaks, high humidity, and inadequate ventilation.

The Complete Mold Inspection is performed in accordance with the Mold Inspection Standards of Practice of the International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants.

The inspection consists of:

a non-invasive, visual examination of the readily accessible, visible, and installed systems and components of the building, as outlined in the IAC2 Mold Inspection Standards of Practice;
moisture, temperature and humidity measurements;
at least three air samples (one indoor and two outdoor); and
possibly one surface sampling at an area of concern.

The inspector reports:

moisture intrusion;
water damage;
musty odors;
apparent mold growth;
conditions conducive to mold growth;
the results of a laboratory analysis of all mold samplings taken at the building; and
any system or components listed in the Standards of Practice that were not visually examined, and
the reasons they were not inspected.

Unless the inspector and client agree to a limitation of the inspection, the inspection will be performed on the primary building and parking structure.

Here are some specific considerations for dealing with mold issues in the Phoenix area:

Moisture Control: Although Phoenix is known for its dry climate, moisture problems can still arise indoors, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Ensure that plumbing fixtures are properly maintained, and promptly repair any leaks or water damage to prevent moisture buildup.
Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for preventing mold growth. Ensure that bathrooms and kitchens are adequately ventilated, and consider using exhaust fans to remove excess moisture during activities like cooking or showering.
Air Conditioning Maintenance: Air conditioning systems can help control indoor humidity levels, but they must be properly maintained to prevent mold growth. Regularly inspect and clean air filters, ductwork, and condensate lines to ensure optimal performance.
Sealants and Weatherproofing: Inspect doors, windows, and other openings for signs of leaks or gaps where water can enter. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal gaps and prevent moisture intrusion.
Monitor Indoor Humidity: Invest in a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels, aiming for levels below 60% to discourage mold growth. Consider using a dehumidifier in areas prone to high humidity.
Prompt Remediation: If you notice any signs of mold growth, such as musty odors, discoloration on walls or ceilings, or visible mold growth, address the issue promptly. Clean and disinfect affected surfaces, and address the underlying cause of moisture to prevent recurrence.
Professional Assistance: For severe or widespread mold problems, or if you're unsure how to address the issue effectively, consider seeking assistance from a professional mold remediation company. They can assess the extent of the problem and provide appropriate solutions.

It's essential to address mold problems promptly to prevent potential health risks and damage to your property. By taking proactive measures to control moisture and humidity levels indoors, you can minimize the risk of mold growth in your Phoenix-area home or business.

Pool Inspection

Home Inspection Services

What SDI Looks For With a Pool Inspection

If you find a home with a swimming pool, the safety and condition of the pool is just as important as the rest of the house. A pool adds to the value of a home. But a pool that is not in good condition can be a money pit. So it’s important to get an inspection of a pool before you purchase. Knowing what to look for with a pool inspection will make you more confident in your inspection and help you make an informed decision when you are ready to buy.

Structure and Materials- Plaster, Tile, Coping, and Decking

We look for cracks in the plaster, tile, rip in the vinyl liner (if applicable), missing coping, and deterioration in the decking. Deterioration is expected, but the inspector will be looking for uneven spots on the pool deck or missing grout in stones in a waterfall.

The inspector will check the interior finish in the inside of the pool for cracks that are bigger than a hairline. Furthermore, the inspector will look to see if the pool needs resurfacing, and if it does, it will be noted.

Equipment Pad- The Pump, Filter, and Heater

This is the area that controls everything in the pool. The pump is what makes it all work and provides the circulation of the water. This area is very important to maintain and to keep the shrubbery away from it.

Filter

The filter collects the dirt and debris that is in the pool and keeps it clean. Filters have a cartridge that goes inside of it and it comes in different sizes. It is important to be using one on the recommendation list for the size of your pool.

The largest size cartridge that can fit in the filter is better. This is because it can save water and needs less cleaning. A good inspector will look at the gauge on the filter to make sure it works as well as the clamp for the filter tank.

Heater

Heaters are optional on pools as they are an extra expense to add. Many heaters are electric, propane, or solar. However, for an inspection, a pool inspector will make sure that the heater is properly grounded and is heating the pool efficiently.

Electrical and Plumbing Lines

These support the system and need to be running properly. The inspector checks that the breakers are properly labeled and the plumbing lines are free of leaks. In addition, he will check for bubbles in the return lines that could indicate there is a leak in the suction.

Mold

Often a leaky plumbing area can create an environment favorable for mold growth. Once growing, mold can spread and possible enter the home. We check mold in the plumbing area and can check the home.

Bathroom Inspection

Home Inspection Services

Inspect Your Bathrooms for a Safe Home Purchase

Inspecting the bathrooms as part of your comprehensive home inspection is crucial. Water leaks often occur in the bathroom. Our inspection will find out if there are any signs of leaks or problems with the exhaust vent.

With a thorough home or property inspection, you can feel confident that your bathroom is clean, safe, and dry.

Leaks

Any time property undergoes a complete inspection, we check for plumbing issues. This mostly includes finding any leaks or signs of water damage in the home. The same applies to the bathroom, where an SDI inspector looks for any indication of trouble.

While they’re inspecting the home, your inspector should look closely at all bathroom plumbing and fixtures. Signs of standing water, leaks, or previous water damage should be notated on the report. A leaky faucet should be addressed before you agree to purchase the home.

We also closely examine areas around the tub, shower, and toilet. Any water around the toilet and other areas can indicate problems with the fixtures that may need remediation.

The sink and toilet is inspected. Loose or wobbly sinks and toilets may not leak today but could cause leaks in the future. This can result in damage and other issues if it’s not corrected immediately.

Along with signs of leaking, the home inspector will look for any evidence of mold. If there is mold present, it may mean that something else is going on behind the walls that should be taken care of.

Ventilation

Bathrooms should be properly vented to remove moisture accumulation. Most home have a bathroom exhaust fan to help keep moisture to a minimum.

If the bathroom exhaust fan is not operable, the inspector should include this information on the report. The fan should lead to the exterior of the home, usually through a vent or pipe directly above it on the roof.

Most bathroom exhaust fans event through the roof, but they could vent out of a window in older homes. The roof option is ideal since venting moisture from a window is not the best situation during extreme hot or cold weather.

Plumbing Inspection

Home Inspection Services

Why is plumbing inspection important?

If you're buying a home or property the plumbing inspection usually consists of only three points: checking to see that drains empty, toilets flush, and taps work. The plumbing inspection checklist for a comprehensive plumbing inspection performed by a licensed plumber will cover many more points.

If the plumbing inspection SDI does uncovers problems, you may want to invest in a comprehensive inspection by a plumber. The nationwide average cost for a plumber to inspect a home is around $200.

Plumbing inspections can be a useful selling point for prospective buyers. You'll be able to prove beyond a doubt that your plumbing systems, sewer lines, and all other aspects of your home's plumbing are in tip-top shape. And you want to avoid costly plumbing emergencies

Typical plumbing repair costs

If you find out that you require plumbing repairs, here are some typical costs. Remember, even an expensive repair will probably result in less expense later on. Prices can vary, depending on the difficulty of the work being completed.

Unclogging drains - $175
Removing objects from drain lines - $100-$300
Clearing sewer lines - $75-$200
Sewer line repair $750-$2000
Sewer line replacement - $7000+
Mold remediation - $1,500

Electrical Inspection

Home Inspection Services

Residential Electrical Inspection Checklist

A proper electrical inspection follows a procedure stipulated in the National Electrical Code (NEC).

During the inspection, Scottsdale Desert Inspection check the safety of electrical devices on your property by following a checklist. This includes:

Circuits: do you have the correct number of circuits to serve the demand of the property—this is especially important if you have added to its existing foundation.

Wires: wires may be old, damaged, or installed incorrectly, which can create a dangerous situation.

Outlets: outlets with poor connections may overheat during a circuit overload.

Service Panels: Old or faulty breakers may cause appliances to stop working, lights to flicker, or the service panel to blow.

Electric Meter: Meters can begin to wear and tear over the years, it is important to ensure they’re functioning properly and they don’t show signs of rust or water damage compromising its quality.

Included in the inspection, is a detailed report of your property's electrical safety.

NOTE: If an electrical feature fails an inspection; it does not meet the minimum safety standards established by the NEC.

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