Q: Who needs a Truth in Sale of Housing Inspection?
A: Anyone who is selling a house, townhouse, duplex or condo in St. Paul, Minneapolis, Bloomington, Hopkins, South St. Paul or Maplewood. This changes from time to time, so check with your city.

Q: How long do the inspections take?
A: Inspections for buyers and sellers--3 hrs. Truth in Sale of Housing inspections--1 hr.

Q: What does the inspection include?
A: See information on "About the Inspections" page.

Q: How much do inspections cost?
A: See information on "Pricing" page.

Q: Is the inspection a warranty or guarantee?
A: No. The inspection is the professional opinion of the inspector. See information on the "Policies" page.

Q: Do you use probes or take anything apart?
A: No. The inspection is essentially visual with no discructive analysis.  I do take the cover off of readily accessible items such as the furnace/boiler.

Q:  If the pilot light is out on an appliance, will you light it?
A:  No.  It is my policy not to light gas appliances due to safety concerns. 

Q: Do you get on the roof?
A: Yes. I will get on the roof when it is possible from a 12 foot ladder and conditions are safe during an inspection for buyers and sellers. If I am unable to get on the roof, I will look at it through binoculars and describe why I was unable to access it. I am only required to look at the roof from the ground with binoculars for a Truth in Sale of Housing inspection.


Q: What is included in a condo inspection?
A: Everything within the condo unit. Common areas are not included.

Q: What is included in a townhome inspection for buyers and sellers?
A: Everything within the unit. Generally the exterior is maintained by the townhome association. I will comment on the exterior and roof also.

Q: Should I be there for the inspection?
A: Yes. You should join me for all or part of the inspection to increase your understanding of the house.  You do not have to attend, and a written report is provided. I will explain all my findings whether you are there or not.

Q: Can you tell me how much it will cost to fix something that is wrong with the house?
A: I can give you ballpark estimates. To get a more accurate estimate, you should consult multiple contractors.

Q: Can you tell me how long a component or system will last?
A: I can give you a ballpark estimate, but I am unable to predict when a component or system will fail. I will tell you if the compontent needs immediate replacement or repair.

Q: Can you recommend what I do about something that is wrong with the house?
A: Yes. But ultimately a licensed contractor should make the final decissions about the best corse of action.

Q: Are you licensed?
A: Yes. I am licensed by the cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis for Truth in Sale of Housing inspections. I am licensed in West St. Paul for the rental license program.  I have to complete yearly testing and continuing education to maintain my license. The state of Minnesota does not regulate or license inspectors for private inspections.