Integra Inspection Services, LLC

Selling a House? Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection

Having a home inspection performed prior to sale has several benefits.

See:
https://www.redfin.com/blog/what-is-a-pre-listing-inspection/

Integra is pleased to offer Pay at Close. Home Inspection fees are unique in that they're among the only home purchase costs typically paid out of pocket. With Pay at Close, inspection fees are rolled into your closing costs.
This frees your finances to handle those other expenses for movers and utility setup fees.
No more shopping around for the cheapest inspector. Hire the best and leave the rest to us.

Keep Your Cool! Importance of Regular A/C Maintenance

Air conditioning that suddenly quits working can result from a lack of regular checkups.
The exterior component has a "start capacitor" with a 4-5 year lifespan. When this
part degrades enough, your A/C compressor (or fan) can't start or run properly.

Condensate plumbing builds up algae and debris that requires yearly cleaning.
If condensate lines fail to drain, the catch pan in a split unit will fill with water,
shutting down the system (if equipped with a float switch).

Refrigerant levels should be checked by a professional, although having this checked yearly
lets out a small amount and introduces air into the system. If your system cools well, having
the refrigerant checked every 3-5 years should be sufficient.

And, of course, replace your air filter regularly. If there is a visible dust buildup on it,
it will restrict airflow and cooling efficiency, making your system work harder.

All this is to say, consider having your system serviced yearly by an HVAC pro.

Checking Your Home for Water Intrusion


It's a good idea to periodically inspect your home for water leakage or intrusion.
A bright headlamp will free your hands as you navigate attics and crawlspaces.

In attics, chronic roof leaks show up as discolored areas of wooden roof structural components such as sheathing or rafters, as well as matted or discolored spots of insulation. It's helpful to look for leaks during heavy rain.
Problem areas include roof penetrations such as plumbing and exhaust vents, and chimneys. If you have a manufactured chimney, look up into the chase. Contact a roofer promptly to correct leaks.

In crawlspaces, inspect the perimeter first, looking for discolored or wet areas of floor structural members. Then, inspect the areas under plumbing fixtures such as kitchen sinks, dishwashers, laundry areas, and bathrooms. Pay particular attention to areas under bathing fixtures (especially tiled showers). Plumbing-related leakage should be promptly addressed by a plumber. Water intrusion in other areas has a variety of possible causes, and a general contractor would be a good start to find and correct this.

Integra scours all areas of a home to look for signs of water issues. Choose Huntsville's top-rated inspection firm for your home inspection.

Preparing Your Home for Inspection, 3 Keys

Selling a home usually involves permitting a potential buyer to inspect the home. Most buyers hire a professional
home inspector for this. There could be other inspections by pest control pros, septic specialists, etc.

Home inspectors don't move your belongings or storage. Areas or components they can't access may go uninspected, which could result in a return trip or a buyer backing out of the sale.

If a home inspection has been scheduled, doing the following tasks will help the inspection go smoother and take less time.


1. Perform basic maintenance:
- Ensure all light fixtures, appliances, and systems are in working order.
- Address issues like loose doorknobs, outlets, and plumbing fixtures

2. Aid the Inspector:
- Ensure clear access to the electrical panel, water heater, and attic.
- Raise all window blinds
- Remove child-proof electrical receptacle covers
- Remove as much storage and clutter as possible
- Remove dishes and items from sinks and tubs
- Unlock thermostats and access panels and doors

3. Plan for the Inspection:
- Remove dogs from the property during the inspection.
- Plan on being away from the home during the inspection. Inspections can take 3 hours or more.
- If you have to be present during the inspection, minimize interaction with the inspector.
- If present during the inspection, do not use water and do not start dishwashers or washing machines.

🏡 Did you find your dream home? 🏡 Don't let unexpected repairs dampen your excitement! With our Inspection Warranty, you can rest easy knowing that unforeseen repairs in the first few months post-closing are covered. Protect your investment today! Review terms and conditions.

We're pleased to announce that Integra has been chosen as one of the top three home inspection firms in the Huntsville/Madison area.

Happy Holidays from Integra Inspection Services, LLC

Water Pressure...What Should It Be?

Residential water pressure should range from 40 to 80psi. Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and icemakers are not designed to handle more than 83psi. National standards require a minimum pressure of 40psi and Alabama state standards mandate that utility companies provide at least 35psi "street" pressure.
Too low of a pressure can cause low flow volume at faucets and shower, but too high a pressure increases the risk of leaks, particularly in appliances.
A good recommendation is to keep your water pressure in the 40 to 75psi range. If your home has a pressure reducing valve (aka regulator), this can be adjusted. An inexpensive pressure gauge can be purchased at any hardware store. Simply attach it to an exterior hose bib and adjust the regulator. Regulators have a lifespan of 7 to 12 years, after which they begin to lose their ability to regulate pressure effectively.
If your water pressure is over 80psi and you don't have a regulator, consider having one installed by a plumber.