Checklist for Home Maintenance

Today, I’m sharing tips on a checklist for home maintenance.  If you are a home owner, you will need to make home repairs or replace items around your home.  As your home ages, it’s certain that items will break, come apart or simply give out.  Replacements and repairs are simply a part of home ownership.  

 

 

checklist for home maintenance

 

 

 

Checklist for Home Maintenance

 

Roof

I’ve been in my home for almost 30 years, and I’ve had the roof replaced once.  At some point, you will need to replace or repair yours too.  Homeowners should check their roof every few years.  Many home owners don’t take this step, and when there’s a huge storm with lots of rain or snow, they suffer the consequences.  Roofs will leak if shingles are lose or if they are weak they can cave in. 

Homeowners can encounter water damage to ceilings, walls and floors.  If furniture is under the leak, it can be damaged as well. Water can cause mold in walls too.     

Making checks on your roof a regular part of your home maintenance will save you money in the long run.  Call a local and reliable roofer to check your roof to ensure you don’t suffer major damage on your home.  

 

 

checklist for home maintenance

 

 

 

Concrete Sidewalks and Patios  

The elements can cause damage to your concrete pathways and patio if you don’t clean or seal it regularly.  Investing in a power washer and a good concrete sealer will save you money by not having to replace or repair your concrete.  Use Deicer that won’t harm your concrete if you live in a climate that gets ice and snow.  Use a professional contractor for any repairs.  

 

Basements

Making sure your sump pump is working sufficiently in your basement, and all drains around your foundation are unclogged and draining properly. You may also want to waterproof your walls internally.  Also, installing a water leak detector in your home could save you thousands of dollars down the road.  Whole-house leak detectors use wireless transmitters that detect and automatically shut off the water in the event of a leak. Ensuring your basement is dry will eliminate any chances of mold getting in your basement.  

 

checklist for home maintenance

 

 

Gutters and Downspouts 

Gutters have a slight downward pitch toward the corner of your house where there is a downspout.  The downward pitch is to move rainwater or melted snow toward and into your downspouts.  The downspouts allow the water to flow away from your home.  

 

Storage Buildings

Many homeowners have a storage building in addition to their garage.  If you have one, check the roof just like you check the roof on your home.  They need to be painted with quality exterior paint and maintained just like your home. Otherwise, they will deteriorate and cost money to replace them.  

 

Decks

Replace any cracked or weak boards on your deck.  A good power washing is needed every few years, and once dry a good sealer should be added.  Maintaining your deck regularly will save you thousands of dollars in replacement cost.  

 

 

Budget Roof Replacement Tips for Homeowners

Today, I’m sharing home improvement tips on budget roof replacement tips.  So, replacing your roof is necessary because the roof protects the interior of your home. Fortunately, it can be replaced even if you are on a budget.  We all know that budgeting is important; however, maintaining a roof that will protect you home is important too.  If you have an older roof, you may need more work than you realize.

 

Budget Roof Replacement Tips: 

 

 

budget roof repair tips

 

 

 

When starting on your budget, there are a few steps of planning:

 

Roof Inspection

Have a professional roofing technician inspect your roof. The technician will tell you if the repairs you need are minor or if the entire roof needs replacing. 

 

Get an Estimate

Call a roofing company, such as Dominion Roofing Company, for a free estimate. This step will give you a better insight into what work is needed on your roof. You’ll also learn what materials, and the number of labor hours that might be needed.

 

Get a least three estimates before accepting one. You’ll want to avoid picking a company just because it’s offering a low rate too.  

 

The companies you want to consider will offer competitive rates. Also, they should be properly licensed and insured. A good company will take the time to explain the details for your roof replacement.

 

Materials

You’ll want to know what materials you’ll need and how much they cost. Certain materials are cheaper than others. Pricing roofing materials before calling a roofer means you’ll have an expectation of what the quote is going to be.

 

Save

Unless your roof needs immediate repair, then get estimates and save your money. Another thing to do is plan ahead and set money aside over the course of years if possible.

 

Time it Right

You’ll want to schedule your roof replacement in late winter or spring. Roofers are busy in the later summer and fall.

 

 

 

budget roof replacement tips

 

 

 

Use Insurance

While homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damages due to neglect, your insurance can help cover costs due to something like a hailstorm.

 

Do some of the Work

If you have the skills, time and proper equipment, you can do some of the work yourself. This can help you cut the costs of repairing your roof.

 

In budgeting for a roof replacement, plan for it. Get estimates, research the cost of materials, save your money, and schedule  your repairs for the off-season. Do some of the work yourself to help save some money. Doing all of this to repair your roof correctly will protect the rest of your home and is an excellent long-term investment.

 

Plumbing Repair in Grand Junction, Colorado – Grand Junction Plumber Guide

Today, I’m sharing shopping tips on plumbing repair in Grand Junction, Colorado.  If you have leaking pipes, clogged toilets, and boiler problems, you may need a plumber.  For more information on a dodgy boiler, click here If you have any of these problems, you may need the help of plumbers in Grand Junction, Colorado.  They have experience in fixing plumbing problems from leaking radiators to dripping tanks.  So, you can be sure that you can get everything fixed in a single visit, and the work will be high-quality.  However, the problem for many people is that there are so many plumbing companies in Grand Junction, Colorado.  And, I’m sure you may find the same problem in your local area.

Furthermore, there are always good and bad apples in the industry. You may have heard horror stories where a homeowner hired a plumber only to end up with a bigger mess than when they started.  As a result, you want to hire someone who shows up on schedule and fixes the problem without additional issues.  Check out my tips on how to find a plumber, and plumbing repair in Colorado below.

 

plumbing repair in Grand Junction, Colorado

 

 

How to Hire a Plumber:

 

Check Out the Certification 

First, most plumbers will be able to do the water systems around your house. They can deal with drips, leaks, clogs, and other issues in pipes.  A plumbing contractor, this can be an individual or a company, deals exclusively with new construction on homes or businesses, remodels and renovations.  They focus on water supply and septic systems.

Unfortunately, some plumbers may have certifications and some may not.  You can find certified plumbers on sites like Airstream Plumbing and Heating in Grand Junction, Colorado.  If you don’t live in the Grand Junction, Colorado area, google plumbers or plumbing contractors in your area and do your homework.

So, certificates will only prove that the plumber has a basic knowledge and level of competence to do the work inside your home. As a result, they may charge less than the experts in a specific field.

 

 

how to hire a plumber

 

Check Licenses

Furthermore, many authorities in different states and counties require a valid license before the plumbers can operate. The licenses include the contractors in the plumbing trade.  As a result, it would be best if you only considered those who can show valid permits.  And, make sure they have the necessary knowledge, experience, and skills to do the work you need. Check out this article on why you should only hire licensed plumbers.

 

Make Sure They Are Insured

So, insurance means that the contractor will be covered if their is an accident while he is working.  Unfortunately, accidents happen when you least expect them.  A contractor could accidently damage an area in your home or the contractors may get injured while working inside your property.  Many homeowners are not required to pay for the damage or medical bills if the contractors are insured.

 

 

how to hire a plumber

 

 

Hire Established Businesses Only

Next, look for companies that have been in your neighborhood for an extended period of time.  An established company will have well-trained workers.  And, they will have lots of experience dealing with plumbing problems.

Fortunately, you can check their websites or know what their previous clients are saying about them through referrals or reviews. An established company is reputable and does quality work.

Everyone has to start somewhere, but you don’t want someone experimenting in your home.  You may end up with more problems and the headaches than you had before you called them.

 

The Role of Plumbers

  • Do repairs, installation, and maintenance on fittings, valves, pipes, fixtures, and drainage system inside your home.
  • They collaborate and call on other electricians, contractors, and other construction pros if there’s a new house to be built.
  • Diagnose and resolve any plumbing emergencies in the fastest way possible.
  • Inspect equipment and test pressure and vacuum gauges to determine the location of the problem.
  • Estimate repair and installation costs.
  • Present the best recommendations related to pricing for the customers
  • Capable of performing the tasks to ensure that the plumbing system will adequately function afterward.

 

Additionally, some plumbing experts in Grand Junction, Colorado or even in your local area have skills to help you solve issues like pilot lights not working properly on your furnace or why your air conditioner is not cooling your home.  The role of a plumbers varies.  Also, they can help you drain your sinks, toilets, washers, and bathtubs.  They have the tools to clear out clogged pipes, and some of them have cameras to check other parts of the drainage system to prevent future issues.

Furthermore, some businesses allow you to fill out a form on their website describing your problem and include your contact number.  A technician will call you back to discuss the problem.  This will give you an opportunity to ask questions as well as allow the technician to ask questions and obtain more information if needed.  Most importantly, get a quote and make sure they will check everything before doing repairs.  Just as important, request that the plumber notify you of any other problems encountered while fixing your initial problem.  This will eliminate any surprise costs when they hand you a bill.

Last, do your homework. Contact several plumbers when you’re looking for plumbing repair in Colorado or your local area.  You will want more than quote for the work.  If possible read reviews or ask for referrals. Most plumbers are available 24/7 if it’s an emergency.  If it isn’t an emergency, contact them during normal business hours.  I hope my tips on how to hire a plumber has been helpful.

 

 

How to Hire a Plumber for Your Home

Today, I’m sharing shopping tips on how to hire a plumber.  If you own a home, at some point you may need a plumber.  Leaking pipes, clogged toilets, backed up kitchen sinks are some of the problems that home owners encounter during their daily living.  You may even encounter problems with outside faucets.  So, you’re probably wondering how to hire a plumber to fix your problem.

Unfortunately, every industry has good and bad employees.  So, you want to choose someone who will do quality work at a decent price.  Furthermore, you want to hire someone who has a reputation for being timely, has great communication skills, and will fix your problem without creating a bigger mess.  Check out my tips on how to hire a plumber for your home.

 

how to hire a plumber

 

 

How to Hire a Plumber:

 

Check Customer Reviews  

Most plumbers will have a rating generated by past customers.  Angie’s List is the perfect place to check out plumbers in your local area.  Read the reviews, and if possible ask questions.  Customers will share their experiences good and bad, and rate the plumber accordingly.  Furthermore, they will let you know why they hired the plumber too.  Hopefully, someone has experienced the same problem you’re currently having.

 

Make Sure they are Certified

You want to hire a plumber who has gone through the necessary training to became a master plumber.  Most plumbing programs take approximately two years to complete.  An apprentice ship could take an additional two to five years.  Master plumbers will have experience in residential plumbing as well as commercial and industrial piping.  They will most likely be more expensive than someone doing an apprenticeship, but their skill set will be higher.

License requirements will be different in each state.  So, check the requirements for your state before hiring a plumber.

 

 

how to hire a plumber

 

Consider How Long They’ve Been Business

Most business will be happy to let customers know how long they’ve been in business and what their  specialties are.  For example,  residential plumbers will specialize in slow drains, clogged sinks, backed up toilets etc.  Plumbing contractors will specialize in wells, septic systems, and new home or business construction.  Either way inquire about their experience and their employee’s experience.

 

Make Sure They Are Insured

Most importantly, make sure the plumber or plumbing contractor you want to hire is licensed and insured.  You want any accidents to be cover by their insurance.  Accidents do happen, so it’s always best to prepared.

 

Furthermore, if you fill out a form on Angie’s List or the plumber’s website, a plumber will get back to you.  Be specific about your problem when you’re filling out your form.  Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions when you get the call back.  Once you get off the phone with the plumber, verify what you’ve been told by doing a little research.  Make an appointment to meet with the plumber and get a written quote.  If they can’t give you one the spot, have them email the quote to you.  Ask additional questions if need to while the plumber is there.  Most will be happy to give you a free quote.

 

Last, I recommend getting several quotes.  You want to make sure you’re getting the best work for the best price.  I hope my tips on how to hire a plumber has helped you feel more confident in hiring a plumber for your household or business plumbing issues.

 

 

How to Make Your Home Economical

Today, I’m sharing tips on how to make your home economical.  There are a lot of things that many of us have to consider when living in the modern world.  But, there are probably few more significant than the impact that we all have on the world around us. There’s a good chance that you’re conscious of trying to reduce your environmental impact.  But, there may be one place you haven’t really thought about, your home. If you’re looking to lessen your impact on the environment then your home is a perfect place to start. 

 

 

making your home economical

 

 

How to Make Your Home Economical

 

Water storage

For most of us in the developed world, water is one of those things that we often take for granted. From watering the lawn to washing the car to taking a shower.  It’s often easy to use far more water than you really realize. But, the truth is that the amount of water that many of us use is pretty ridiculous. Storage tanks are a great option if you want to reduce the amount of water that you use. Check out this model from The Tank Factory.  The water in a tank like this might not be useful for everything, but it can make a huge dent in how much water your home wastes.

 

More efficient appliances

We all need appliances. Many of our appliances use more power than you might expect. The best way to avoid this without giving up on them entirely is to be on the lookout for the most energy-efficient appliances available. When you replace your appliances, make energy-efficiency a priority.

 

make your home economical

 

 

A change in your behavior

If you really want to make your home a more economical space then one of the best things that you can do is simply change your behavior. Simple things like making sure that you’re turning off lights and electronic devices that aren’t being used.  Additionally, not endlessly using the A/C or heating when you could simply open a window or put on an extra layer of clothing. These are small things, but the truth is that they help to achieve a more economical home. 

The truth is that if you want to become more economical and reduce the impact that you’re having on the environment, you’re probably going to have to make some sacrifices. And sure, most of us would rather avoid little inconveniences where we can. However, the truth is that reducing the impact that we have on the natural world is simply too important to ignore for the sake of being able to live a more comfortable and convenient life. You don’t have to give up all of your comforts, but learning how to strike the right balance is always important. 

Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day

Today, I’m sharing shopping tips on gift ideas for Mother’s Day.  All mothers deserve to be treated well when it’s a special occasion. Whether it’s her birthday, Mother’s Day Christmas or any other event, you want to make sure she gets a gift that shows how appreciated and loved she is.

Whether you’re buying a gift for your own mother or even for your daughter, there are lots of gifts to show them they are amazing.  In addition to physical gifts, you could consider experiences or even favors that will make her happy.

 

 

mothers day gift ideas

 

 

Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day:  

 

Gifts Made By the Kids

When you want to give a mother a special gift, getting her children involved is always a good idea.  If you’re an adult in their life, go with them to buy any material needed to make the gift.  You can even help them make something.  This can include a painted mug or drawing. If you decide to go shopping together, have the kids be on the lookout for other gifts mom may like.  It’s a great opportunity for the kids to learn how to shop for someone else. 

 

 

mother's day gift ideas

 

 

 

 

Photos and Paintings

Photos and paintings are excellent ideas for creating memories.  Additionally, they can be displayed in the home. You can take favorite photos and have them turned into painted portraits.  You could also book a photoshoot or get a gift voucher for a photo session. Professional family photos are great, but not everyone wants to spend money on themselves in that way. 

 

 

mother's day gift ideas

 

 

 

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Instead of giving a gift that has a one-time use, consider gifts that just keep giving. Monthly subscriptions are a great example.  For example, if you sign someone up for a subscription for chocolate, wine or a magazine, they don’t just get one gift, but keep getting nice surprises the length of the subscription.  How about a gift that can be used over and over.  An e-reader or new bag are perfect gifts.  Give gifts that can reused. Your gift could range from an e-reader to a new bag. Gifts that last a long time and can bring someone lots of pleasure will always make a good gift.

 

Some Personal Time

Most moms crave a little time to themselves. This can include relaxing at home with no disturbances. It could also mean going out with some friends.  You can help by offering to babysit, take the kids out for the day, or arranging for mom to do something fun.

 

If you know a mother who deserves a treat, be sure to pick from our special gift ideas for Mother’s Day. Better yet, don’t wait for the next special occasion to come around, get her something just because.

How to Revamp Your Home

Today, I’m sharing home decor tips on how to revamp your home on a budget.  If your home looks as tired as you feel staring at those uninspiring walls, then perhaps it’s time for a revamp. Or maybe you just need a change? They say it’s as good as a holiday. 

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to revamp your home. You can breathe new life into your living space without breaking the bank.  So, get in touch with your creativity and check out our tips on how revamp your home below.

 

 

how to revamp your home

 

 

 

How to Revamp Your Home:

Fresh Paint 

Your walls are a canvas of possibilities. You can repaint your entire house, or focus on a room at a time. Step out of your comfort zone and try out new paint colors, or even an accent wall in the living room. 

Alternatively, pick out an item – a chest of drawers, an old bookshelf, a kitchen table – anything, and paint it. Preferably in a contrasting color that compliments the rest of the room. It makes a world of difference, and you’ll get to decide how much to spend.

 

Save the Siding

Siding in need of some TLC affects the overall appearance of your house. Evaluate the extent of the damage, and see if you can replace or repair the worst parts. 

Whether you have vinyl, stucco, aluminum, or wooden siding, by fixing a few panels, you’ll get rid of that eye-sore and improve your exterior’s look. It will improve your home’s look and maintain your house in the long run.

However, if the damage is beyond redemption, then it’s worth asking a specialist to conduct a site visit. This will give you an idea of how much it’ll cost. So, either way your efforts won’t be in vain.

 

 

how to revamp your home

 

Refinish & Replace

Bring dull cupboards and shelves back to their former glory by applying a refinish, or opt for two-toned cabinets to introduce a burst of color into a dull space.

Give your kitchen a fresher look, by replacing that century-old appliance with a new one. Do the same for other household items like rugs, throw cushions, or even bedding.

 

Liven Up Living Spaces

Invite energy into a tired corner with gorgeous artwork, or a vase of fresh flowers. Lamps are fantastic choices, too.  You can easily replace a lifeless lampshade with a more modern one.

Shop around for bargains and see what other beautiful, inexpensive things you can use to spruce up a drab area.

 

how to revamp your home

 

 

Revamped, Refreshed, and Renewed

Giving your house a facelift doesn’t need to cost a fortune. A fresh coat of paint does wonders, while repaired siding makes a massive difference, too.  Small changes like a refinished cupboard, a replaced appliance, or a pop of color will liven things up and revamp your home – all without burning a hole in your pocket.

 

 

Tips on Searching for a New Home

Today, I’m sharing advice on searching for a new home.  Whenever you develop the need to invest in a new property, whether this is due to relocation for work, school, or the need to increase space, it can be a very stressful.  Searching for the right place takes time.  And, the potential to lose money throughout your project can increase anxiety levels even further.

Fortunately, there are several simple steps that you can take when purchasing a new home.  Find out more about how you can uncover the perfect property in no time.  Furthermore, you can uncover the best tips and tricks that can bring balance and efficiency to your search.

 

searching for a new home

 

 

Tips on searching for a new home:

 

Make A Plan

Planning your move in advance is a great way to reduce your stress levels.  Having a clear schedule in place makes it much easier to head in the right direction. Simply jot down what you would like to achieve and by which date.  For example, finding the perfect property within a 3 month period. Making a plan is a great motivator to inspire you to move forward. 

 

 

Enlist Professional Help 

One of the best things that you can do to reduce stress when searching for a new home is to enlist professional help. There are so many different specialists that can support you through every aspect of your journey.  Many likely have years of experience to make the process as simple as possible. From trusted estate agents that you can approach for help to essential mortgage teams such as those over at https://altrua.ca who can cover the legal side of things.  There are so many unique and talented companies that are ready and waiting for your call.  So, don’t try to battle such a huge task on your own.  

 

 

searching for a new home

 

Take Time Out 

Although you may feel it necessary to completely throw yourself into your new home search, it’s a good idea to take some time out to focus on something fun and unrelated.  Having unrealistic expectations can cause extreme upset and disappointment if things go wrong.  This could potentially cause you to put off making your move. Doing something such as indulging in self care will be the perfect break from searching for a new home. It can help you gain clarity and focus whenever you do decide to channel your efforts into your new property search. 

Reducing stress while searching for your new home has never been so simple.  So, make the most of the tips detailed above!  And, remember to make a plan that will motivate you to carry on, while enlisting professional help to support your goals. 

Gift Ideas for Every Occasion

Today, I’m sharing gift ideas for any occasion.  There are many occasions where you need to buy a gift. A birthday, a new baby, a wedding, a special occasion, or just because you care. Choosing the right gift can be stressful and overwhelming.  But, don’t worry.  Here have a few solutions. 

 

gift ideas

 

 

Here are a few gift ideas for every occasion:   

 

Birthday Gifts for Kids 

Most kids already have toys that get played with for a few minutes and then they lost interest and move to something else.  Other gift ideas for kids instead of another toy are sensory toys, subscription boxes, or tickets to an event. 

Sensory toys like a hanging indoor swing or balance board are great. They not only help children process their feelings and excess energy, but they can also give mom a break from their hyperactivity. 

Subscription boxes are another fun idea. Every month they will receive an activity to do in their mailbox. This is so exciting for a child and you can tailor the boxes to match their personalities. There are boxes that range from literary experiences to science experiments, cooking or baking, and STEM activities. 

Experiences are also a great way to give a gift to a child. Tickets or memberships to local events, museums, or zoos are gifts that they can remember forever.  

 

Baby Shower Gifts

New moms usually feel overwhelmed and sometimes may not even know what they need. What to get a new mother will depend on their situation.  A brand new mother will need different things than an experienced mother. 

So, if you are buying a gift for a brand new mother, it is important to think about things that saved your sanity.  Diapers and wipes are always a good idea since that can never be overused.  Furthermore, a gift card to be used at a later date is also a great idea.  Additionally, bring your favorite book from when you were a child to share with the new baby. 

The transition to motherhood or addition of a new baby to a family is always stressful on the mother. Getting a gift aimed at the mother instead of the baby can be a very thoughtful gesture as well. A day at the spa, some of her favorite items, or gift cards to eat out with hubby or her significant other.  

 

 

gift ideas

 

Wedding Gifts

Couples normally have a wedding registry, so that makes buying gifts easier. Sometimes there aren’t many things on the registry or the things in your price range have already been purchased. If this happens, then you need some ideas to fill in the gaps. 

One great idea is to get them either a subscription box or gift box that they can use for date night. If they are moving after the wedding, then they will probably appreciate something fun to do. Wine and cheese,  pretzel delivery boxes, or date night activities are a fun addition too.

Home Inspection Tips for Buyers

Today, I’m sharing home inspection tips for home buyers.  Home inspections have been known to make both the seller and buyer uneasy. Sellers often feel that the home inspection company will automatically side with the buyer if issues arise.  However, buyers feel the opposite.

If you’re in the market for a new home, you need to be aware of the intricacies involved in a home inspection.  You should become familiar with the process before purchasing a home.  Educate yourself on the before, during, and after inspection processes.  It’s important that a home inspection go well for both the buyer and seller.  

 

home inspection tips

 

It’s very common for purchasing contracts to include a provision stating that the home inspection pass or the sale won’t occur.  If you don’t like the results of the inspection, that means you can simply walk away.  Another option would be to simply negotiate a lower price with the seller .  Especially, if the inspection doesn’t go as planned.  Having a home inspection go off without a hitch is ideal for both parties. 

 

Here are a few home inspection tips for buyers:

Include It in the Contract

Many buyers make the mistake of not putting an inspection contingency clause in the purchasing contract. Don’t make this mistake. You need to make sure the real estate agent properly includes the inspection.  A verbal agreement with the seller isn’t enough.  You need the clause included in the contract to make it legal.  

 

Inspections Are Essential (But Not Foolproof)

Home inspections are essential. Using a quality inspection service is important (e.g. Octopus Home Inspections).  But, equally as important is realizing that inspections aren’t foolproof. Not every inspection will be perfect.  And, there will almost certainly be minor details that are missed. Remember, the inspection report will detail everything the inspection company finds. So, much of that depends on the level of access granted by the seller. 

 

home inspection tips

 

 

Deciding Between Repairs, Credits, Etc. 

If there are issues found during the inspection, this is where strong negotiation skills come into play. Being able to negotiate is important.  Especially, when it comes to buying a house. For example, let’s say that the inspection found problems with a brick patio. The buyer can try to negotiate with the seller.  The buyer can ask that the seller give them credit for that repair.  Or, have the seller hire a contractor to complete the repair. You will want to do this before the sale is finalized. 

 

Getting It in Writing Is Important

If the seller agrees to hire a contractor, have all repairs documented. This also includes any recent/past repairs.  Especially, repairs the seller is using to make their home more appealing to buyers (e.g. “brand new floors”). While this isn’t essential by any means it certainly shouldn’t be ignored. 

 

Tips for Finding a Quality Inspection Company 

It’s important not to rush into choosing a home inspection company. Make sure the company you choose is experienced, licensed, and is well-reviewed. This is where using Google and other search engines can be handy. Look at the company’s reviews. 

What are people saying? Do they have lots of positive reviews? Does the company offer a sample report for potential customers to view before hiring them? These are the kinds of questions you should be asking. You should also look into whether or not the inspection company belongs to any of the major inspection associations (in the United States).

Last, don’t be afraid of asking questions.  Also, the inspection company should allow you to be present when the inspection occurs.  If you have any questions or concerns, voice them. There’s nothing worse than leaving a question unanswered about a home inspection.  

Finally, using the home inspection tips will allow you to hire a qualified inspection company. Keep in mind everything covered above will help you during the purchasing process.