Housemaster Home And Termite Inspections

The inspector assigned to inspect my vacant house left the AC on after the inspection which ran my electric bill up $over normal

Revdex.com: I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted] and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me I will wait until for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved Regards, [redacted]

Regarding the home inspection performed at [redacted] inspection number [redacted] We acknowledge our client, the buyer [redacted] ***, and his concerns regarding the thoroughness of the inspection of the house and workshopUpon review of the inspection report we find no evidence that the inspector missed anything that the client is suggesting in his complaintThere is ample evidence of water damage noted in the report and also a repaired/patched ceiling suggesting previous damage, as was stated to the buyer from the sellerThe ratings, comments, and pictures in the report fully disclose serious existing issues and previously repaired issuesOur client is mistaken in his claim that the inspector missed these itemsThe facts are that the inspector followed both company and state standards during the performance of this inspection, and even exceeded standards in many cases, including walking on the roofThere are certain limitations to a home inspection, including inaccessible areasThe inspector does the best he can to assess the conditions of these inaccessible areas, including the crawl space under the home, but often a full assessment is unrealisticThese restrictions are understood and addressed in the company and state standards, as well as in the inspection service agreement which the client had signed.We empathize with the client and the issues which exist in the home, but these issues were properly and thoroughly disclosed in the reportGiven the facts found in the report, and the fact that the seller had disclosed to the buyer/client that there was previous serious damage to the roof and ceiling to the buyer prior to the purchase, HouseMaster is not in any way responsible for any repairsWe do wish our client wellIf there are any other questions or concerns that the buyer has regarding understanding the findings in the report we will be happy to address and clarify those findings

We have had previous communications with *** ***, the homebuyer, her real estate agent and her agents broker regarding this matterWe stand by our previous statements that suggest that a sample number of smoke detectors in this home were inspected per state standards and rated Fair, which by
definition found in the inspection report meansA definition of our ratings is included in the reportWe indicated that the smoke detectors were hardwiredA comment included in the report suggesting that all smoke detectors be hardwired and have a battery backup is a commonly used in the industryIt should be noted that the number of units that the client is concerned about, 9, is uncommon in a home this sizeThis style home will have one smoke detector in each bedroom and one in the hallwayAny additional units are part of the security system that was installed in the houseA home inspector does not inspect the condition of a security system, including smoke detectors that are a part of a systemThis was disclosed to the client and their real estate representative in section of the inspection reportWe also previously addressed the concern about the breaker at the electric panelInspectors do not typically turn breakers on or off for a variety of reasonsBreakers are left as they are foundThere can be a number of reasons why this breaker was turned offIt is not within the scope of an inspection to determine the connection and/or condition of individual circuit distribution, as is stated in the report section It is possible that the breaker in question was connected to the security systemBecause of these findings that were discovered within the proper performance of a state certified home inspection HouseMaster is not liable for these defectsWe hope that this sheds more light on the matter and helps the client resolve the issues they are experiencing with their smoke detectors

HouseMaster has had previous communications with Ms*** regarding these mattersWe detailed evidence that the inspector did access the attic and completed the inspection within the scope of the standards and limitations normally observed by home inspectorsThere is limited access to inspect
all the elements in an attic by nature of the design of attic spaceSimilar limitations prohibit an exhaustive inspection of electrical wiring and HVAC units and the roof as wellThe scope of a home inspection is very general and limited to accessible major componentsEach item is rated as either Satisfactory, Fair or Poor with strict definitions assigned to each ratingThese definitions and limitations are clearly described in the inspection report, and the service agreement which Ms*** had signed prior to the inspectionFurthermore, we previously explained to Ms*** that the period which had lapsed between the time the inspection was performed (May 23, 2016) and the time when these concerns were discovered (As early as August 19, 2016) is too great a lapse for an inspector to be responsible for these newly discovered conditions, especially considering the fact that the home remained occupied for a good portion of that timeAs was explained to Ms*** before, HouseMaster is not liable for these discoveries and there will be no compensation issued given these facts

[A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response. If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]
Revdex.com:
I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ***While I do not agree with the response and still feel that the inspection was incomplete and did not address the smoke detector/electrical problems, it doesn't look like I have any other recourse than to close this complaint although I don't feel it is resolved
Regards,
*** ***

There is ample evidence disclosed in the report concerning the condition of the roof and flooring of the homePlease refer to the pictures attached and comments provided from the inspection report belowAt this point the report is the only evidence of the conditionThe inspection report is the most concise and accurate depiction of the condition of the home as it stood at the time of the inspection“Noted the metal pipes for the furnace and water are loose and gappedRecommend reseal/repair.” “Fascia and soffit area starting to show some wear...some moisture stains notedRecommend regular maintenancePaint/finish is deteriorated.(cracking and peeling)Recommend repair/paint as neededAny holes/cracks/gaps in the soffit or fascia area needs to be sealedRecommend repairNoted dry rot at the fascia (front)“No/inadequate ventilation noted for the crawl space; recommend adding cross ventilation as requiredVapor barrier (plastic) on crawlspace ground is recommendedA vapor/moisture barrier provides protection to from moisture or dampness.”These findings all suggest previous and possibly even existing water damage which can be detrimental to the structure of the home.The home was occupied during the time of the inspection causing limited visual accessibility of all elements of the homeThe bathroom was full of personal items as was the rest of the homePer state standards, an inspector is prohibited from disturbing personal affects during the course of the inspectionStill, there is no shortage of evidence of damage and potential damage found in several areas of the report that served as warnings to the home buyer/clientThis inspection was performed within the scope and standards of a general home inspection, which was detailed in the service agreement that the client signed HouseMaster can not and is not liable for these alleged claims

There is ample evidence disclosed in the report concerning the condition of the roof and flooring of the homePlease refer to the pictures attached and comments provided from the inspection report belowAt this point the report is the only evidence of the conditionThe inspection report is the most concise and accurate depiction of the condition of the home as it stood at the time of the inspection“Noted the metal pipes for the furnace and water are loose and gappedRecommend reseal/repair.”
“Fascia and soffit area starting to show some wear...some moisture stains notedRecommend regular maintenancePaint/finish is deteriorated.(cracking and peeling)Recommend repair/paint as neededAny holes/cracks/gaps in the soffit or fascia area needs to be sealedRecommend repairNoted dry rot at the fascia (front)“No/inadequate ventilation noted for the crawl space; recommend adding cross ventilation as requiredVapor barrier (plastic) on crawlspace ground is recommendedA vapor/moisture barrier provides protection to from moisture or dampness.”
These findings all suggest previous and possibly even existing water damage which can be detrimental to the structure of the homeThe home was occupied during the time of the inspection causing limited visual accessibility of all elements of the homeThe bathroom was full of personal items as was the rest of the homePer state standards, an inspector is prohibited from disturbing personal affects during the course of the inspectionStill, there is no shortage of evidence of damage and potential damage found in several areas of the report that served as warnings to the home buyer/clientThis inspection was performed within the scope and standards of a general home inspection, which was detailed in the service agreement that the client signed HouseMaster can not and is not liable for these alleged claims

HouseMaster has had previous communications with Ms. [redacted] regarding these matters. We detailed evidence that...

the inspector did access the attic and completed the inspection within the scope of the standards and limitations normally observed by home inspectors. There is limited access to inspect all the elements in an attic by nature of the design of attic space. Similar limitations prohibit an exhaustive inspection of electrical wiring and HVAC units and the roof as well. The scope of a home inspection is very general and limited to accessible major components. Each item is rated as either Satisfactory, Fair or Poor with strict definitions assigned to each rating. These definitions and limitations are clearly described in the inspection report, and the service agreement which Ms. [redacted] had signed prior to the inspection.
Furthermore, we previously explained to Ms. [redacted] that the period which had lapsed between the time the inspection was performed (May 23, 2016) and the time when these concerns were discovered (As early as August 19, 2016) is too great a lapse for an inspector to be responsible for these newly discovered conditions, especially considering the fact that the home remained occupied for a good portion of that time. As was explained to Ms. [redacted] before, HouseMaster is not liable for these discoveries and there will be no compensation issued given these facts.

We have had previous communications with [redacted], the homebuyer, her real estate agent and her agents...

broker regarding this matter. We stand by our previous statements that suggest that a sample number of smoke detectors in this home were inspected per state standards and rated Fair, which by definition found in the inspection report means. A definition of our ratings is included in the report. We indicated that the smoke detectors were hardwired. A comment included in the report suggesting that all smoke detectors be hardwired and have a battery backup is a commonly used in the industry. It should be noted that the number of units that the client is concerned about, 9, is uncommon in a home this size. This style home will have one smoke detector in each bedroom and one in the hallway. Any additional units are part of the security system that was installed in the house. A home inspector does not inspect the condition of a security system, including smoke detectors that are a part of a system. This was disclosed to the client and their real estate representative in section 8.8 of the inspection report. We also previously addressed the concern about the breaker at the electric panel. Inspectors do not typically turn breakers on or off for a variety of reasons. Breakers are left as they are found. There can be a number of reasons why this breaker was turned off. It is not within the scope of an inspection to determine the connection and/or condition of individual circuit distribution, as is stated in the report section 10.3. It is possible that the breaker in question was connected to the security system. Because of these findings that were discovered within the proper performance of a state certified home inspection HouseMaster is not liable for these defects. We hope that this sheds more light on the matter and helps the client resolve the issues they are experiencing with their smoke detectors.

Regarding the home inspection performed at [redacted] inspection number...

[redacted]. We acknowledge our client, the buyer [redacted], and his concerns regarding the thoroughness of the inspection of the house and workshop.
Upon review of the inspection report we find no evidence that the inspector missed anything that the client is suggesting in his complaint. There is ample evidence of water damage noted in the report and also a repaired/patched ceiling suggesting previous damage, as was stated to the buyer from the seller. The ratings, comments, and pictures in the report fully disclose serious existing issues and previously repaired issues. Our client is mistaken in his claim that the inspector missed these items. The facts are that the inspector followed both company and state standards during the performance of this inspection, and even exceeded standards in many cases, including walking on the roof. There are certain limitations to a home inspection, including inaccessible areas. The inspector does the best he can to assess the conditions of these inaccessible areas, including the crawl space under the home, but often a full assessment is unrealistic. These restrictions are understood and addressed in the company and state standards, as well as in the inspection service agreement which the client had signed.
We empathize with the client and the issues which exist in the home, but these issues were properly and thoroughly disclosed in the report. Given the facts found in the report, and the fact that the seller had disclosed to the buyer/client that there was previous serious damage to the roof and ceiling to the buyer prior to the purchase, HouseMaster is not in any way responsible for any repairs. We do wish our client well. If there are any other questions or concerns that the buyer has regarding understanding the findings in the report we will be happy to address and clarify those findings.

Regarding the home inspection performed at [redacted] [redacted] inspection number [redacted]. We acknowledge our client, the buyer [redacted], and his concerns regarding the thoroughness of the inspection of the house and workshop. Upon review of the inspection report we...

find no evidence that the inspector missed anything that the client is suggesting in his complaint. There is ample evidence of water damage noted in the report and also a repaired/patched ceiling suggesting previous damage, as was stated to the buyer from the seller. The ratings, comments, and pictures in the report fully disclose serious existing issues and previously repaired issues. Our client is mistaken in his claim that the inspector missed these items. The facts are that the inspector followed both company and state standards during the performance of this inspection, and even exceeded standards in many cases, including walking on the roof. There are certain limitations to a home inspection, including inaccessible areas. The inspector does the best he can to assess the conditions of these inaccessible areas, including the crawl space under the home, but often a full assessment is unrealistic. These restrictions are understood and addressed in the company and state standards, as well as in the inspection service agreement which the client had signed.We empathize with the client and the issues which exist in the home, but these issues were properly and thoroughly disclosed in the report. Given the facts found in the report, and the fact that the seller had disclosed to the buyer/client that there was previous serious damage to the roof and ceiling to the buyer prior to the purchase, HouseMaster is not in any way responsible for any repairs. We do wish our client well. If there are any other questions or concerns that the buyer has regarding understanding the findings in the report we will be happy to address and clarify those findings.

Revdex.com:
I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted] and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me.  I will wait until for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved.
Regards,
[redacted]

We have had previous communications with [redacted], the homebuyer, her real estate agent and her agents...

broker regarding this matter. We stand by our previous statements that suggest that a sample number of smoke detectors in this home were inspected per state standards and rated Fair, which by definition found in the inspection report means. A definition of our ratings is included in the report. We indicated that the smoke detectors were hardwired. A comment included in the report suggesting that all smoke detectors be hardwired and have a battery backup is a commonly used in the industry. It should be noted that the number of units that the client is concerned about, 9, is uncommon in a home this size. This style home will have one smoke detector in each bedroom and one in the hallway. Any additional units are part of the security system that was installed in the house. A home inspector does not inspect the condition of a security system, including smoke detectors that are a part of a system. This was disclosed to the client and their real estate representative in section 8.8 of the inspection report. We also previously addressed the concern about the breaker at the electric panel. Inspectors do not typically turn breakers on or off for a variety of reasons. Breakers are left as they are found. There can be a number of reasons why this breaker was turned off. It is not within the scope of an inspection to determine the connection and/or condition of individual circuit distribution, as is stated in the report section 10.3. It is possible that the breaker in question was connected to the security system. Because of these findings that were discovered within the proper performance of a state certified home inspection HouseMaster is not liable for these defects. We hope that this sheds more light on the matter and helps the client resolve the issues they are experiencing with their smoke detectors.

Nowhere in the report did it show a hole in the floor, or say "hole in the floor". Nowhere in the report did it say "soft spot on roof" or show a soft spot in the roof.  HouseMaster's mistakes have cost us thousands of dollars, and left us in a position where we are unable to pay for the needed repairs.

There is ample evidence disclosed in the report concerning the condition of the roof and flooring of the home. Please refer to the pictures attached and comments provided from the inspection report below. At this point the report is the only evidence of the condition. The inspection report is the most concise and accurate depiction of the condition of the home as it stood at the time of the inspection.
1.1 “Noted the metal pipes for the furnace and water are loose and gapped. Recommend reseal/repair.”
1.5 “Fascia and soffit area starting to show some wear...some moisture stains noted. Recommend regular maintenance. Paint/finish is deteriorated.(cracking and peeling). Recommend repair/paint as needed. Any holes/cracks/gaps in the soffit or fascia area needs to be sealed. Recommend repair. Noted dry rot at the fascia (front).
7.4 “No/inadequate ventilation noted for the crawl space; recommend adding cross ventilation as required. Vapor barrier (plastic) on crawlspace ground is recommended. A vapor/moisture barrier provides protection to from moisture or dampness.”
These findings all suggest previous and possibly even existing water damage which can be detrimental to the structure of the home.
The home was occupied during the time of the inspection causing limited visual accessibility of all elements of the home. The bathroom was full of personal items as was the rest of the home. Per state standards, an inspector is prohibited from disturbing personal affects during the course of the inspection. Still, there is no shortage of evidence of damage and potential damage found in several areas of the report that served as warnings to the home buyer/client. This inspection was performed within the scope and standards of a general home inspection, which was detailed in the service agreement that the client signed.  HouseMaster can not and is not liable for these alleged claims.

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted] and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me.  I will wait until for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved.

Regards,

HouseMaster has had previous communications with Ms. [redacted] regarding these matters. We detailed evidence that...

the inspector did access the attic and completed the inspection within the scope of the standards and limitations normally observed by home inspectors. There is limited access to inspect all the elements in an attic by nature of the design of attic space. Similar limitations prohibit an exhaustive inspection of electrical wiring and HVAC units and the roof as well. The scope of a home inspection is very general and limited to accessible major components. Each item is rated as either Satisfactory, Fair or Poor with strict definitions assigned to each rating. These definitions and limitations are clearly described in the inspection report, and the service agreement which Ms. [redacted] had signed prior to the inspection.
Furthermore, we previously explained to Ms. [redacted] that the period which had lapsed between the time the inspection was performed (May 23, 2016) and the time when these concerns were discovered (As early as August 19, 2016) is too great a lapse for an inspector to be responsible for these newly discovered conditions, especially considering the fact that the home remained occupied for a good portion of that time. As was explained to Ms. [redacted] before, HouseMaster is not liable for these discoveries and there will be no compensation issued given these facts.

[A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response.  If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted]. While I do not agree with the response and still feel that the inspection was incomplete and did not address the smoke detector/electrical problems, it doesn't look like I have any other recourse than to close this complaint although I don't feel it is resolved.

Regards,

Regarding the home inspection performed at [redacted] inspection number...

[redacted]. We acknowledge our client, the buyer [redacted], and his concerns regarding the thoroughness of the inspection of the house and workshop.
Upon review of the inspection report we find no evidence that the inspector missed anything that the client is suggesting in his complaint. There is ample evidence of water damage noted in the report and also a repaired/patched ceiling suggesting previous damage, as was stated to the buyer from the seller. The ratings, comments, and pictures in the report fully disclose serious existing issues and previously repaired issues. Our client is mistaken in his claim that the inspector missed these items. The facts are that the inspector followed both company and state standards during the performance of this inspection, and even exceeded standards in many cases, including walking on the roof. There are certain limitations to a home inspection, including inaccessible areas. The inspector does the best he can to assess the conditions of these inaccessible areas, including the crawl space under the home, but often a full assessment is unrealistic. These restrictions are understood and addressed in the company and state standards, as well as in the inspection service agreement which the client had signed.
We empathize with the client and the issues which exist in the home, but these issues were properly and thoroughly disclosed in the report. Given the facts found in the report, and the fact that the seller had disclosed to the buyer/client that there was previous serious damage to the roof and ceiling to the buyer prior to the purchase, HouseMaster is not in any way responsible for any repairs. We do wish our client well. If there are any other questions or concerns that the buyer has regarding understanding the findings in the report we will be happy to address and clarify those findings.