Visual Guide
Parts of a Home
Understand the key structural components of your home: what your inspector examines and why each part matters.
Helpful Resources
Everything you need to make confident, informed decisions about your home, from buying guides to certification resources.
Helpful Guides
Buying your first home? Learn what to expect from the home inspection process, what questions to ask your inspector, and how to use your report to negotiate.
A step-by-step walkthrough of what happens during a home inspection, from the first walk-around to the final report delivery.
Selling your home? Use this checklist to prepare for a pre-listing inspection and get ahead of issues before buyers find them.
Keep your home in top shape year-round with this seasonal maintenance checklist covering roof, HVAC, plumbing, and more.
Learn how infrared thermal imaging works, what it detects, and why we include it on every inspection at no extra cost.
Everything you need to know about HUD Permanent Foundation Certifications: who needs them, why they matter, and how to get one.
Visual Guide
Understand the key structural components of your home: what your inspector examines and why each part matters.
Helpful Links
Learn how infrared thermal imaging detects hidden moisture, insulation gaps, and electrical hot spots.
Learn MorePractical tips from InterNACHI to improve your home's energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
Learn MoreHow long do roofs, HVAC systems, appliances, and other home components typically last?
Learn MoreA seasonal home maintenance checklist to keep your home in top condition year-round.
Learn MoreWhat sellers and buyers should do before the inspector arrives to ensure a smooth inspection.
Learn MoreHow FAA-licensed drone pilots safely inspect roofs of any height with high-resolution imagery.
Learn MoreFAQ
As a licensed home inspector, I've seen it all, from squeaky floorboards to hidden foundation cracks. Here are the most common questions I get from clients.
What exactly does a home inspection cover?
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of a property's major systems. This includes the roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, attic, insulation, windows, doors, and structural components. We're looking for safety issues, damage, wear and tear, or anything that might need repair or further evaluation.
Can a home "fail" an inspection?
Not really. A home inspection isn't a pass/fail test. It's a report card on the condition of the home at the time of the inspection. It's up to the buyer and seller to decide how to move forward based on the findings: whether that means negotiating repairs, adjusting the sale price, or walking away.
Should I attend the inspection?
Absolutely! While it's not required, I always recommend that buyers (and sometimes sellers) be present. It's a great opportunity to ask questions, see any issues firsthand, and get a better understanding of how the house operates. I always walk my clients through the key findings before I leave.
How long does a home inspection take?
On average, 3 to 4 hours for a single-family home. Larger or older homes can take longer, especially if there are additional systems like pools or detached structures to inspect.
What if the inspector finds problems?
All homes have issues, even brand new ones. The goal isn't perfection; it's transparency. If something significant is found, you can discuss it with your agent and decide on next steps. That could mean requesting repairs, getting a specialist's opinion, or renegotiating the deal.
How much does a home inspection cost?
It varies by region, home size, and age, but typically ranges from $380 to $600. Add-ons like radon testing, sewer scope inspections, or termite inspections will add to the cost.
Can I do my own inspection instead?
Unless you're trained in multiple building systems and know what to look for, I wouldn't recommend it. A professional home inspector brings experience, training, and often tools that the average homeowner doesn't have. Plus, a formal report is usually required for the home-buying process.
A home inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make during the real estate process. It gives you peace of mind, negotiating power, and a clearer picture of what you're walking into.
Have more questions? Feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to help.
Useful Links
InterNACHI: Verify Sammy's Certification
Verify Sammy Brown's Certified Professional Inspector® credentials directly on the InterNACHI website.
View ProfileMFD Home Certifications: Order a Foundation Cert
Order a Permanent Foundation Certification or Addition Certification directly through our partner, MFD Home Certifications.
Order NowWV Division of Labor: Home Inspector Licensing
Verify West Virginia home inspector licenses through the WV Division of Labor licensing portal.
Visit SiteVirginia DPOR: Home Inspector Licensing
Verify Virginia home inspector licenses through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
Visit SiteHave more questions? I'm happy to help, any time, any day.
Get in TouchFrom Me, With Care
I guarantee your home inspection report will be delivered within 24 hours after the completion of the inspection, or it's on me!
At Modern Home Inspections, I promise more than just a home inspection. I deliver a deep, personalized insight into your property's true condition. I go beyond the basics, using technology and a keen eye for detail to uncover what others might miss.
You'll get a clear, honest report that empowers you to make confident decisions, all backed by my unwavering commitment to transparency and exceptional service.
“If you honor me by permitting me to inspect your new home, I will inspect your home as if it was my own!”
Sammy Brown · Modern Home Inspections LLC