Excel Inspections – Page 3 – Excel Home Inspections

WHAT WILL THE INSPECTION COVER?

August 18, 2009 by Excel

The scope of the inspection covers those items that are specifically requested by the sales contract property condition addendum, but is not limited to those items:

Inspection of Structural Systems:

House Foundation, Grading and Drainage

Roof Covering, Structure & Attic

Walls, Ceilings and Floors

Doors & Windows

Fireplace/Chimney

Porches, Decks and Carports

Inspection of Electrical Systems:

Service Entrance and Panels

Branch Circuits-Connected Devices and Fixtures

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC Systems)

Heating Equipment

Cooling Equipment

Ducts and Vents

Inspection of Plumbing System:

Water Supply System & Fixtures

Drains, Wastes, Vents

Water Heating Equipment

Hydro-Therapy Equipment

Inspection of Appliances:

Dishwasher

Food Waste Disposer

Range Hood

Ranges/Ovens/Cook tops

Microwave Cooking Equipment

Trash Compactor

Bathroom Exhaust Fans and/or Heaters

Whole House Vacuum Systems

Garage Door Operators

Door Bell & Chime

Dryer Vents

Other Built-In Appliances

Inspection of Optional Systems:

Lawn Sprinkler

Swimming Pools & Equipment

Outbuildings

Outdoor Cooking Equipment

Gas Lines

Fire Protection Equipment (smoke detectors)

For a more comprehensive list of our Standards of Practice (or SOPs), you can go to the website of TREC: http://info.sos.state.tx.us/pls/pub/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=5&ti=22&pt=23&ch=535&sch=R&rl=Y

Product, equipment & appliance safety recalls are not part of a normal home inspection. More specific recall information can be obtained at www.cpsc.gov/index.html .

WHAT DOES THE INSPECTION EXCLUDE?

August 18, 2009 by Excel

We do not inspect septic systems, termites and other wood-destroying insects, environmental hazards, fountains, security systems or solar equipment, cosmetic items, cabinets, fences, floor coverings, water softeners, driveways and sidewalks and the self-cleaning functions of the oven.

* A home inspection is not a home warranty, implied warranty or protection against future failures. Mechanical components such as HVAC Systems can and will break down, just as roofs will need replacement. A home inspection tells you the condition of the home at the time of the inspection report only. A real estate home warranty policy can be purchased for additional reassurance.

* A home inspection is not an appraisal that determines the value and square footage of a home. A home inspector should not tell you what to pay for the property or whether to buy it or not, only what repairs might be needed. We give you the information to make that decision.

* A home inspection is not a code inspection, which verifies local building code compliance, although the TREC Inspector must be well versed in current codes. They will follow a “Standards of Practice” established by the “Texas Real Estate Commission” (TREC). Home inspectors will report findings when it comes to safety concerns that may be in the current code such as no GFCI outlets at sinks. An inspector thinks “Safety” first .. not “Code” when performing a home inspection, although some items may fall into both categories.

SHOULD I BE PRESENT FOR THE INSPECTION?

August 18, 2009 by Excel

An inspection can last from 1-3 hours, depending on size, age & condition of the house. Our team consists of 2 home inspectors and our computer/IT person all working at the same time (a termite inspector might also be present if requested). We work for you, so we always recommend that the buyer be present so that we can answer any questions and you can see how we do our inspection. As a professional, we respect your time so our promptness and reliability is our reputation. We present the report findings and answer your questions with patience and thoroughness. We also show you digital pictures taken throughout the inspection and point out the defects in a precise, detailed manner. We also request that you be present at the time appointed.

Being able to walk through the house and meet with the Inspector is the best option. However there are circumstances where a buyer cannot be physically present for the inspection.

If you can’t personally be present at the inspection:

* Have your Realtor, a friend or relative join the inspector at the home. Convey to them any specific questions or concerns you have so they can relay this information to the Inspector and have them take notes for you.

*Once you have received and read your report, call your inspector if you have any questions or concerns regarding the report.

WHAT IF THE REPORT CONTAINS DEFECTS?

August 18, 2009 by Excel

All homes have problems, even new homes. The only question is how serious are these problems? Our inspectors understand the difference between major and minor problems and will communicate that difference.

It is up to you to decide how any defects the inspection uncovered affects your decision to purchase. If major problems are discovered, you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before closing. The report can also be used to negotiate on the contract price. Your inspector can discuss the findings with you and help put them in the proper perspective. Your realtor can also give you insight. Ultimately, the decision rests with you. Knowing about potential problems before you buy gives you the power to make an informed and competent decision.

WHEN DO I GET THE REPORT?

August 18, 2009 by Excel

The right inspector, right away. ®

Computerized reports with photos will be emailed or faxed to you on the same day, generally within several hours. Once you have had an opportunity to read the report, if you have any questions just call our office and we can discuss any concerns.

WHAT IS THE COST?

August 18, 2009 by Excel

Our inspection price is based on age and square footage. Separate systems such as sprinkler, zoned HVAC, swimming pools, sprinklers, spas and hot tubs will be priced additionally. If a home is on a multi-level or pier and beam type foundation, there can also be additional cost. Just call our office and we will be glad to give you a free estimate based upon those items.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Once you have scheduled the inspection, we have your time locked in. All arrangements should be made to provide us with access or a CBS code for our Supra key. The listing agent/owner/tenants should be notified to make sure that the time is agreeable to all parties. Any locks or obstructions need to be removed to provide access to all attics, electrical panels, water heaters, HVAC systems, etc.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

If for any reason you need to cancel or reschedule, please call our office immediately. We require a 24 hour advance notice. That gives us an opportunity to replace your inspection with other clients on stand-by. If less than notice is given, a fee can be incurred. If less than 2 hours notice, the fee will be equal to the cost of the inspection. If the inspection is rescheduled, then the fee may be waived. This will be evaluated on a per case basis. Our time is valuable too, but more importantly so is each client. Options periods are short and inspections slots are limited.

Testimonials

August 18, 2009 by Excel

(All of our testimonials were given freely and without any monetary compensation.)

“Thank you so much for your immediate scheduling of our inspection today. I wanted to thank your husband and son for their thorough work and manners. They both stopped their conversation when I entered the home, as I had to come in later, in order to greet and introduce themselves. I am so pleased we found your company and were able to do business locally. I will be recommending your services to my fellow neighbors within Caprock and will use your company for any future needs we may have. Overall, everything was SUPERB!!!

Again, we can’t thank you enough!”

Megan Barnard

Thank you. I believe God blessed me with the best and I told my Realtor (who referred you to me) the same.

Best to you,

Ferne

Dear Excel Inspections-

Recently you did an inspection on a 2 yr old Taylor/Morrison home I WAS going to buy in Steiner Ranch. Initially I thought why do I need an inspection on practically a brand new house? My realtor, Julie Stephens (highly recommended – 512-784-1990) practically forced me to use your firm saying I HAD to as you were the best. I say ” I WAS going to buy this house” because after your inspection we realized there was a major water leak coming from a cracked pipe in the foundation of the home and that the cost and time to repair it would be longer than what I was willing to accept. This leak was not easily found as you had to actually turn on (and let run) the master bedroom toilet in order to uncover the issue. Most inspectors would have just flushed the toilet, making sure it was in good working condition, rather than take the extra step to actually force the toilet to continue running to uncover any hidden issues. This extra time and knowledge your inspector spent saved me literally 10’s of thousands of dollars.The benefits I received from using Excel Inspection far outweighed the costs of doing so. I will recommend Excel Inspections to anyone and everyone I know. Awesome Job!!

Sincerely,Scott

I have used Rick Runnels to inspect my home three years ago, and ever since I have sent him numerous clients, who too are looking for a seasoned inspector, who gets the job done quickly and thoroughly. If you, or anyone you know, are looking for a real estate inspector, give Rick a call today! Amani Wang, Realtor, Keller Williams Realty.

Best,

Amani Wang

Luxury Homes Division of Keller Williams

Top 10 Individual Award Winner with Most Listings in 2007 AND 2008 !

Keller Williams Realty

1801 S. Mopac Exp., suite 100

Austin, TX 78746

office: (512) 448-4111

fax: (512) 448-4822

cell: (512) 762-SALE

website: http://AmaniWang.yourKWagent.com

email: AmaniWang@KW.com

“Excel Inspections provided excellent service and was extremely thorough with the inspection on our new house. The team provided much needed insight into the house we were interested in buying. Their experience gave us an understanding of the items that needed attention and the best practices for addressing those issues. I look forward to using their expertise in the future and recommending their services to anyone else in need of a quality inspection team.”

Thank you once again for a great job.

P. Alex King
Sr. Software Engineer
o (512) 225-6054
c (512) 750-3720
e aking@newgistics.com

Excel was hired to perform an inspection on a house my husband and I were buying. The inspectors detected significant movement in the home that ended up being a “cracked” slab. They saved us money and the stress of buying that house. We had Excel do the second inspection on a house we loved even more, so it all worked out. We are very happy with our new home and Excel Inspections.

Peggy and Frank Guerrera.,

Hutto, Texas

This is unsolicited testimony to the professionalism and service above and beyond the normal by Excel inspections. I phoned and asked for assistance inspecting a home I was planning to purchase. Response was immediate and the conduct in getting the job done was of the utmost in efficiency and attention to detail.

His report on the house was succinct and to the point. It was extremely easy to follow and read. The comments from every party to this transaction were the same, speaking to the competent demeanor and attitude, as well as the confidence in the abilities of the inspector and promptness in getting the job done.

Without a doubt, I would highly recommend EXCEL INSPECTIONS to anyone and everyone that seeks such advice.

Pat C.,

Austin, Texas

Boy I’m glad I used Excel! I bought an older home in a great neighborhood that needed some work. I wanted to have an inspection so that I knew if I was getting a great deal or buying a money pit. They found fire hazards in the house that had been missed by previous inspectors as well as quite a few electrical and plumbing issues. The report was efficient, easy to understand, but most importantly, thorough. I had many questions throughout my projects which Rick was always available to answer, even though they were above and beyond the original inspection and months later . I have recommended EXCEL many times to my coworkers, friends and family. Thanks for doing a great job.

Ken Wu,

Austin, Texas

About Us

August 18, 2009 by Excel

Excel is a family owned and operated business with three generations in the Real Estate industry. Exceeding expectations for over 29 years, our name is our reputation. We take pride in our professional code of ethics, first & foremost.

Our inspectors are licensed by T.R.E.C., members of T.A.R.E.I., T.P.R.E.I.A., NACHI and have extensive construction experience. We continually update our training and education to be at the top of our profession.

Choosing the right home inspector can be difficult. Unlike most professionals, you probably will not get to meet us until we are hired. Furthermore, different inspectors have varying qualifications, equipment, experience, reporting methods, and, yes, different pricing! A thorough inspection depends heavily on the individual inspector’s experience knowledge and insight. Our home inspections also require ethics, professionalism and teamwork. If you honor us by permitting us to inspect your new home, we guarantee that you will be given our very best effort.

Rick Runnels, C.P.I.

Rick, Lic. #873, has performed over 29,000 single & multi-family inspections, including apartments & commercial buildings. He is a designated “Professional” Inspector, the toughest of all 3 designations earned through the Texas Real Estate Commission. He is also a CPI, or Certified Professional Inspector. Rick has been performing home inspections for over 32 years.

Brandon Runnels

Brandon, Lic. #9809 joined the company fulltime in 2007, although he worked many summers in the family business while growing up. He was a graduate of Wimberley High School and attended Texas State before joining the EXCEL Team. Brandon and his wife Jessica live in the Cedar Park area. Brandon and Jess just welcomed a baby girl into the family, Parker Leigh Runnels, born on May 10th 2014.

Ann Runnels

Ann is the office administrator and handles the inspection scheduling. She is also available to answer questions about the inspection process, scheduling and price.

We will have baby Parker as our new part-time office mascot so we appreciate your patience as she develops her office skills!

After 32 years of working with this industry, insight and knowledge make your transition go smoothly in capable hands.

Let our family help bring yours home.

Follow us on Twitter @excelinspects or https://twitter.com/excelinspects

Thanks for Voting us #1 in the “Best Austin Home Inspectors Category”

http://www.bizvotes.com/tx/austin/home-inspectors.html

How does your inspector measure up? Follow the link below to see:

http://www.nachi.org/requirementcomparison.htm

For Realtors

August 18, 2009 by Excel

Inspected once, inspected right. ®

If you have not used Excel before, you may not know that our specialty is working with first-time home buyers to help make the experience as stress-free as possible. We understand that buying a home for the first time can be overwhelming so we work to make the reports user-friendly and the transaction go as smoothly as possible. We are known for honest, reliable and affordable inspections.

Presale Inspections

If you are in the process of selling your home, an inspection before listing will point out any potential problems or defects that might be uncovered later during the buyer’s inspection. Finding out about any major defects early on in the process will allow you to address them prior to listing your home to bring your home up to its full market potential. We can offer Move-In Certified pre-sale inspections, go to www.moveincertified.com/sellers for more information.

Who Gets the Report?

It’s very important that the buyer’s agent or representative receive a copy of the inspection report so they can provide assistance to the buyer in repairs or negotiations. We do not provide a copy of the report to anyone else without the buyer’s consent and approval. When warranted, we can provide copies to any parties needing to make repairs and further clarification. We can also upload your report to fetchreport.com for easy contractor access, just let us know your needs.

Easy Access to Any Listing

We are members of ABOR with Supra lockbox keys which will gain access withut a CBS code. If there is not a lock box on the door just let us know how we will be gaining access.

Quick Turn-Around Time

With the understanding that option periods are generally short and time is of the utmost importance, we are usually able to get your inspection scheduled and performed within a few days. All reports are delivered the same day as your inspection, usually within several hours.

Availability

We always are prompt in returning any calls and answering any questions or concerns that might arise. We understand that repairs need to be discussed with all parties and we are happy to help in any way.

Inspector Bootcamp

Do you have realtors in your office that are new to the inspection process or need a refresher course on the Standards of Practice and/or changes? Are you familiar with what we do or do not inspect and how inspections are performed? Excel Inspections offers a power point and Q&A session in your office scheduled for your convenience. It is designed to address the basics of what to inspect during an inspection and how to better prepare yourself and your client (buyer or seller) for the inspection. Just give us a call to schedule.

Home Ownership 101

A new home buyer can be overwhelmed if not familiar with routine maintenance and repair issues. There are basic questions that may not be part of the scope of the inspection. Excel Inspections offers a personal one-on-one exclusive time at the new property to address and cover general and specific questions that may arise. Call our office for a quote.

Members of :

Welcome

August 18, 2009 by Excel

Exceeding our clients expectations since 1984, we put our experience to work for you.

The purchase of a home is usually the largest single investment of a lifetime. Therefore, it is in your best interest to have a home inspector with extensive knowledge. Our team gives you an objective view of the condition of the house at the time of the inspection and works FOR YOU.

Serving Austin and surrounding Central Texas counties, including Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis and Williamson Counties. If out of the area, call for a free quote.
Two inspectors on-site provide a cost efficient and time-saving inspection, while providing a thorough, precise and easy to understand report.
Any findings are explained on site, when the parties are available. Computerized reports with photos will be emailed or faxed to you on the SAME DAY, generally within a few hours.
View a sample report. We have several ways to incorporate the photos into our report. The most common is the photo following the defiency. (The comments section under each header is not included in the report but just for further clarification per TREC what inspectors are looking for). We also include a summary page.
Reports can be viewed as a PDF or Word document.
Military Discount to all active personnel.
Discounts for repeat customers.
Credit cards, cash and checks are accepted.