ABOUT SIGNATURE INSPECTION SERVICE INC.

We’re here to take the guesswork out of buying a home. Our straightforward and professional home inspectors will ensure that you are able to make an informed decision. A new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and we want to make sure that the process is as easy as possible for you.


Our team is incredibly communicative, and we will relieve all the stress of buying a home. If you are looking for an ASHI Certified Home Inspector, we are here to help you! If you are unsure of whether or not to buy a home, we will perform an inspection to check for any damages and repairs which may be needed. With 38 years in general contracting and 20 years in the real estate business, we have the expertise to help you with the process.

home inspection services electrical inspection
home inspection services electrical inspection
Signature Inspection Service, Inc. - Best of HomeAdvisor
American Society of Home Inspectors
Signature Inspection Service, Inc. - Excellent Customer Service

ANCHORAGE HOME INSPECTION

For many years, Signature Inspection Service Inc. has been one of the leading home inspection companies in the Anchorage area. During a home inspection, we perform a visual inspection of all the major elements of your potential new home. The purpose of this inspection is to alert you to any potential problems, as well as to inform you of any major defects in the property that may influence your decision about whether or not to purchase it.

A standard home inspection should include a visual inspection of the following parts of the house:

Heating System

As part of our inspection of the heating system, we are required to document the type of heating system in use in the home, the method that heat is distributed throughout the building, and to check for common problems or defects associated with the system in question. We will also test the heating system by turning up the thermostat and checking the response. Vents, flues, and chimneys will also be inspected for any obvious defects.

Air Conditioning System

We will perform a visual inspection of the air conditioning system to ensure that all seals, lines, and visible ductwork are in working order. We will check to make sure that the exterior unit has been properly maintained and cleared of debris. Weather permitting, the air conditioning system will be tested, and we will check to ensure that the system is cooling all areas of the home equally.

Interior Plumbing

We will test the water supply by flushing toilets and running all faucets to check for leaks and to make sure there is an appropriate amount of water pressure. We will examine drainage pipes for signs of past leakage, and check whether supply line valves can be turned on and off without resistance or leaking. We will also inspect the water heater and examine pipes for signs of rust or corrosion. Finally, we will check around toilets, sinks, showers, and major appliances for any sign of cracked or warped flooring that could be the result of frequent leaks or spills.

Electrical System

A properly functioning electrical system in a home is critical for the safety of the residents, as electrical system problems are responsible for thousands of house fires every year. We will examine the electrical service panel for signs of age, wear, and damage, and ensure that it is using components that are up to current safety standards. We will inspect switches to make sure that they are functioning, and inspect outlets to make sure they are properly tightened and have no signs of previous short circuits or unusual heating. We will also test to make sure that your electrical system is properly grounded, and inspect the electrical box.

Roofing

A roofing inspection is meant to determine the condition of the roof itself as well as its drainage system. The largest factor that will impact a roof’s effectiveness is the age. We inspect the roof for signs of aging and weathering, as well as check for any individual shingles that may be damaged or leaking. We will check for signs of leaking, and make sure that the drainage system is clear and functioning properly.

Attic

We will inspect the condition of any visible insulation in the attic, as well as check for moisture or any obvious damage. We will perform a thorough visual inspection for damage, cracks, and mold. We will check roof vents to ensure they have been maintained and have not been blocked by debris or animal nests. We will check support beams and trusses for signs of bowing, which could indicate the roof needs more support.

Home Interior

We will inspect floors, ceilings, and walls for water damage or sagging. We will inspect staircases and railings to make sure they are safe, and check the condition and operation of windows and doors. We will also assess the condition of all countertops, cabinets, and any appliances that will be sold with the home. Finally, we will check the operation and condition of the garage door and garage door opener.

Home Exterior

We will inspect exterior siding and any attached porches, balconies, or decks to determine that they are sturdy and undamaged. We will also inspect driveways, sidewalks, and patios. We will inspect the quality of the surface drainage, as well as any vegetation or grading issues that may cause trouble for the structure.

Radon Testing

NEW HOME/BUILDING RADON TEST SERVICE: TEST, FIX, SAVE A LIFE

Did you know Signature inspection service now provides Radon testing for your home or your commercial building?

WHAT IS RADON & WHY BE CONCERNED?

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas produced by the decay of naturally occurring uranium in soil and water typically found in the soil under the foundation of a home or commercial property.

ANCHORAGE HOME INSPECTION FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Do I have to be there while the home is inspected?

A. It is not required that you be there, but we highly recommend that you accompany your inspector as they examine the home. If you are there, you will see what the inspector sees and have a better understanding of the scope and severity of any problems that are encountered. This will help you make a better decision when it comes time to purchase the home.

Q. Do I have to be there while the home is inspected?

A. It is not required that you be there, but we highly recommend that you accompany your inspector as they examine the home. If you are there, you will see what the inspector sees and have a better understanding of the scope and severity of any problems that are encountered. This will help you make a better decision when it comes time to purchase the home.

Q. Can a home fail an inspection?

A. Homes cannot fail a home inspection. The job of the home inspector is simply to catalog any issues that exist with the property, not to check whether the home is up to code. The purpose is to indicate any aspects of the property that require minor or major repairs, not to “pass” or “fail” the building.

Q. How long will the home inspection take?

A. Obviously, the time will vary depending on the size and condition of the home, but the average home inspection takes roughly three to five hours.

Q. What is in the home inspection report?

A. The report includes a detailed summary of the condition of the home as well as a description of the condition of every system of the home that we have inspected.

Q. Should a seller get a home inspection?

A. A professional home inspection can be very beneficial for a seller. If you get an inspection before you put your home on the market, you can address any potential problems before buyers see it, and correspondingly increase your asking price.

Q. Does the seller have to fix all the problems you find in the home inspection?

A. The seller is not required to fix any problems that are found in the home inspection. The purpose of the inspection is simply to inform you of the condition of the property. You may use this information in negotiations with the seller, either requiring them to make repairs or lower the price to compensate for the damages.

Q. What does a home inspection include?

A. A home inspection entails a visual inspection of all the major features of a home, including the HVAC system, interior plumbing and electrical systems, the walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, roof, attic, and other structural components.

Q. Why is a home inspection important?

A. A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. When you are considering a purchase of this magnitude, you want to make sure that you have all the information you need to make the best decision possible for you and your family. If the home inspection identifies serious problems, such as a roof in need of repair, the offered price for the home may no longer be so attractive. If the inspection finds no serious problems, you can negotiate with confidence and be sure you will not need to deal with any unpleasant surprises when you move into your new home.

Q. Why can’t I do the home inspection myself?

A. Even the most experienced homeowner does not have the training and expertise of a professional home inspector. Home inspectors know exactly what to look for and can make a thorough assessment of a house in a few hours. When you hire a home inspector, you won’t have to worry that you missed something.

Q. Does a newly constructed home need an inspection?

A. Yes, all homes can benefit from inspections. This is especially true with new homes, because even brand new homes often have issues that need to be addressed. If you are purchasing a newly constructed home, it can be beneficial to spot problems early, when they are easier to correct. If you are building a new home yourself, it can be extremely valuable to have a professional inspection done before the interior walls go up.

Q. Will the home inspector fix the problems he finds?

A. No. To ensure that there is no conflict of interest, you will be required to hire another contractor to complete any repairs. The inspector’s job is simply to catalogue any issues with the property so that you know exactly what needs to be fixed.