The "HomeBook" Report
The easy-to-understand HOMEBOOK™ is considered by many to be the "Bible" of the industry.
It is routinely used by public and private sector institutions and it is updated yearly for comprehensive accuracy.
When completed by a HomePro professional, the HOMEBOOK™ becomes a customized home owner's manual.
The condition of the home is summarized (backed up with all supporting details) in comparison to peer houses of similar age, type and location.
All of the problems are;
Fully described
Illustrated where appropriate
Detailed with the "what to and how to" of repair
Complemented with authority references and useful repair products where appropriate.
The HomeBook organizes data into eight major sections.
Structure;
The structure of the building is identified in terms of material used, type of construction, and the degree to which various areas are accessible. Significant sub-components, such as foundation type, framing materials, etc. are listed and their idiosyncrasies are noted. The inspector also checks for major and minor problems in the various structural systems of the building, including the foundation, floor, wall and roof framing.
Electrical;
The existing electrical system is checked for sufficient capacity and safety. The inspector evaluates the system in terms of its current condition and considers its suitability for future intended use. Upgrades and repairs are recommended where appropriate.
Heating / Air Conditioning;
The inspector assesses the capacity of the existing equipment to produce comfortable conditions. By considering the age of the existing equipment and the intended capacity, the inspector can approximate the life expectancy and recommend appropriate repairs or upgrades within a budget
Plumbing;
The piping and fixtures throughout the house are checked for functional flow and life expectancies. The system is screened for unsanitary conditions and potential repairs, such as freeze vulnerability or spillage/overflow. The laundry equipment, tile work, and domestic water heating equipment are surveyed as well. Useful upgrades are itemized and near term replacements budgeted.
Basement / Crawl Space
Water seepage probabilities and structural problems are evaluated and remediation advice is given. The inspector looks for possible problem areas that could cause structural problems, such as poor soil, surface drainage, close proximity tree roots, rotating steps, etc.
Kitchen
The appliances are operated and deficiencies noted. The inspector recommends appropriate upgrades and approximates the life expectancy of each piece of equipment. Depending on age and usefulness, the inspector may suggest a budget for repairs from complete renovation to typical minor problems such as appliance malfunction, damage to floor seams, or inoperative door springs.
Interior
The inspector scans the wall, floor, and ceiling surfaces for problematic conditions, such as visible evidence of water penetration, potentially dangerous or toxic materials, fire hazards, or security breaches. The ventilation and energy conservation aspects are checked and appropriate upgrades are itemized
Exterior
The inspector walks on the roof (where safe and appropriate) and notes preservation deficiencies. Roof runoff controls and landscape drainage are checked and improvements are recommended where necessary. Steps, walks, and drives are checked for voids, surface problems, and safety hazards.