We provide home inspections and testing services in Paducah and the surrounding area. This includes McCracken, Ballard, Marshall, Graves, Livingston and Calloway counties. Inspections may be provided in other areas on a case by case basis.
A home inspection is an evaluation of the visible and accessible systems and components of a home. Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.
A typical inspection includes the roof, exterior, interior, structural, garage, electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems, insulation and ventilation & attached appliances.
Anywhere from two to four hours depending on the condition of the property, the number of services you’ve requested and the size of the home. It takes time to perform a thorough inspection of the entire property and I pay attention to the details.
You’ll receive your report access via e-mail. We also provide photos of any areas of concern and we include them in the report. A paper copy of the report will also be provided upon request. Our report is easy to understand and is usually available to you within 24 hours of the inspection.
Yes. Your REALTOR can assist you in determining if any items in the report are significant enough to warrant re-negotiation with the seller. Having your REALTOR review the report also insures that you both are “on the same page” at the closing.
If you plan to attend the inspection, we will give you a time to arrive at the end to discuss our findings. There are always items in the inspection that can best be explained on-site. We will include them in the report of course, but your presence at the property always makes it easier for you to understand important information about the property.
Todd Martin, the owner of Martin's Home Inspections in Paducah, KY, who is fully licensed by Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors. With over 20 years experience in the building trades, Todd is very knowledgeable and this knowledge is a key component in performing the inspection and creating your inspection report.
I will make arrangements with you or the REALTOR to get a key or lockbox, or arrange for someone to be there to unlock the door.
FAQ
Interiors/Appliances
Doors, floors, stairways, counters, cabinetry, and the number of windows are all cited on the inspection report along with notes on any items that don't function as they should. This also includes testing of all interior appliances that are built-in or included in the purchase contract.
Insulation/Ventilation
Attic crawl space insulation and vapour retarders are noted on the inspection report. All venting fans that aren’t working also are included. Under-floor insulation, if accessible through the basement, also is examined for deterioration.
Heating/Air Conditioning
The entire heating and air conditioning system is tested to verify it's in working condition, and the appropriate filters are examined for accumulation. Supply pipes are examined for corrosion. Chimneys must be clear of bird nests, and the chimney frame, whether it's brick or made of other components, is to be sound.
Electrical
A representative sample of the electrical components is examined to ensure the components fit and are operating safely. Conductors, grounding equipment and distribution panels are tested for efficient operation. The location of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also is noted in the inspection report.
Plumbing
All piping is tested, including drains, vents and waste systems. Water ingress and egress is examined, as are the interior fuel and water distributors and the sump pump, if present. All drains are examined for signs of leakage.
Roofing
The roof is examined closely for loose shingles or tiles, and the flashing is tested for tightness. Tree limbs touching the house provide a passageway for rodents and also can threaten the house during violent storms. Gutter debris is noted, and all drains are tested for a tight connection to the house. Skylights and chimneys also are examined for proper sealants.
Exterior Faults
Close inspection of the exterior may reveal where additional caulking is needed to prevent water seepage. Broken seals on glass, deteriorating tread steps, decking and settlement cracks are a few of the items that require professional repair. Even the garage door is tested whether it's electronic or manual.
Structural Components
A home inspector climbs onto the roof, pokes at the foundation, and crawls into attic space looking for water condensation or penetration. He’ll examine roof trusses to be sure they're connected to the frame. Walls are examined for leakage or mold. Floor cracks are noted, as is separation from the baseboards. The ceilings, especially around electrical fixtures, must be clear of any signs of water leakage.
What do we inspect?
