Pickaway County Home Inspector

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Home Inspections Pickaway County Ohio

3 Reasons Why Heart State Inspections is the Top Choice For Pickaway County Ohio Homebuyers

#1 – WE ARE LOCAL

Heart State Inspections is a local and family-owned home inspection company. We are a Pickaway County Ohio Home Inspector and we serve most surrounding counties as well. Local means better customer service from start to finish because we care deeply about our neighbors and our community. You get a certified professional home inspector that is based right here in Central Ohio. We provide you a “Grand View” of your potential property.

#2 – WE ARE AN UP AND COMING INDUSTRY LEADER

We’re an up and coming leader within the central Ohio home inspection industry. It’s our main priority to serve our customers by providing outstanding competency and integrity in our experience with you. Education is the foundation of our organization. We empower homebuyers to purchase with confidence and Realtors trust our unbiased inspections.

#3 – ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INSPECTION

We promise to go above and beyond the State Standards of Practice! Our inspections not only cover what the state of Ohio requires but they also provide information and safety concerns as if our family was moving in to the property. We want you to feel confident with your purchase and to allow your new home to be a place of safety and security. Let us be your Pickaway County Home Inspector.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION WITH US

You can expect a thorough, well-executed home inspection, followed by a thorough and exceptional home inspection report that is stocked with purposeful images and useful information which will allow you to make the most informed decision on your potential new home. Not only are we professionally trained we also have a background in hospitality. You are our main focus… The home will tell us it’s story and it is our job to tell that story to you. Our experience is just the beginning, learn more about us here.

If you’re a Realtor, and we have yet to work together, let’s schedule a meeting. It only takes one meeting or one inspection with us to realize why we belong on your top 3 referral list. Grand View Property Inspections is now Heart State Inspections.

Franklin County Home Inspector

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Heart State Inspections - Columbus Ohio Reviews

3 Reasons Why Heart State Inspections is the Top Choice For Franklin County Ohio Homebuyers

#1 – WE ARE LOCAL

Heart State Inspections is a local and family-owned home inspection company. We are a Franklin County Ohio Home Inspector and we serve all surrounding counties as well. Local means better customer service from start to finish because we care deeply about our neighbors and our community. You get a certified professional home inspector that is based right here in central Ohio. An inspection from Heart State can not be beat!

#2 – WE ARE AN UP AND COMING LEADER

We’re an up and coming leader within the central Ohio home inspection industry. It’s our main priority to serve our customers by providing outstanding competency and integrity in our experience with you. Education is the foundation of our organization. We empower homebuyers to purchase with confidence and Realtors trust our unbiased inspections.

#3 – ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INSPECTION

We promise to go above and beyond the State Standards of Practice! Our inspections not only cover what the state of Ohio requires but they also provide information and safety concerns as if our family was moving in to the property. We want you to feel confident with your purchase and to allow your new home to be a place of safety and security. Let us be your Franklin County Home Inspector.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION WITH US

You can expect a thorough, well-executed home inspection, followed by a thorough and exceptional home inspection report that is stocked with purposeful images and useful information which will allow you to make the most informed decision on your potential new home. Not only are we professionally trained we also have a background in hospitality. You are our main focus… The home will tell us it’s story and it is our job to tell that story to you. Our experience is just the beginning, learn more about us here.

If you’re a Realtor, and we have yet to work together, let’s schedule a meeting. It only takes one meeting or one inspection with us to realize why we belong on your top 3 referral list.

Delaware County Home Inspector

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3 Reasons Why Heart State Inspections is the Top Choice For Delaware County Ohio Homebuyers

#1 – WE ARE LOCAL

Heart State Inspections is a local and family-owned home inspection company. We are a Delaware County Home Inspector and we serve the surrounding areas as well. Local means better customer service from start to finish because we care deeply about our neighbors and our community. You get a certified professional home inspector that is based here in central Ohio. An inspection from Heart State Inspections can not be beat!

#2 – WE ARE AN UP AND COMING LEADER

We’re an up and coming leader within the central Ohio home inspection industry. It’s our main priority to serve our customers by providing outstanding competency and integrity in our experience with you. Education is the foundation of our organization. We empower homebuyers to purchase with confidence and Realtors trust our unbiased inspections.

#3 – ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INSPECTION

We promise to go above and beyond the State Standards of Practice! Our inspections not only cover what the state of Ohio requires but they also provide information and safety concerns as if our family was moving in to the property. We want you to feel confident with your purchase and to allow your new home to be a place of safety and security. Let us be your Delaware County Home Inspector.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION WITH US

You can expect a thorough, well-executed home inspection, followed by a thorough and exceptional home inspection report that is stocked with purposeful images and useful information which will allow you to make the most informed decision on your potential new home. Not only are we professionally trained we also have a background in hospitality. You are our main focus… The home will tell us it’s story and it is our job to tell that story to you. Our experience is just the beginning, learn more about us here.

If you’re a Realtor, and we have yet to work together, let’s schedule a meeting. It only takes one meeting or one inspection with us to realize we belong on your top 3 referral list.

Proper Grading Around A Home

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Proper Grade Around Your Home

Spring is among us and landscaping is now on many home owners minds. Also what should be thought about is what is proper grading around a home? This is an important issue because if land grading is not done properly, runoff can be directed toward your foundation. This unwanted water can eventually compromise the foundations integrity.

If you own a home, you may eventually find yourself having to do some land grading near your house’s foundation to correct drainage issues. Poor drainage resulting in leaky basements or foundation issues often stems from having an insufficient slope away from the foundation. To do land grading properly, you must first know how much slope you need to have away from the house foundation.

Most basement waterproofing experts and home inspectors recommend that a good slope to aim for when grading land extending out from a house foundation is 6 inches for the first 10 feet (a “slope” of 5 percent).

  • String or Rope – at least 12 feet long.
  • 2 stakes (labeled A and B), and something to pound them into the ground with
  • A string level (that is, a type of level designed to fit on a piece of string)
  • A tape measure

Do You Already Have the Correct Proper Grade Around Your Home?

Using the above supplies, take the following steps to determine if sufficient slope currently exists:

  1. Tie one end of the string loosely around stake A.
  2. Pound stake A into the ground right near your foundation
  3. Slide the string down stake A, so that it rests at ground level
  4. Tie the other end of the string loosely around stake B.
  5. Now measure out 10 feet down the slope from stake A, and pound stake B into the ground there (if there is excess string, wrap it around stake B). The string between the stakes should be fairly taut, but still adjustable.
  6. Slide the string up or down stake B, to make it roughly level.
  7. Put the string level on the string, at about the mid-point between the stakes.
  8. Now adjust the string up or down on stake B, to make it exactly level.
  9. Measure the distance from the string on stake B to the ground. Is the measurement of 6 inches or more?

Do You Need to Re-Grade the Land?

The slope measurement you just took will determine whether or not you need to re-grade this land:

  • If the measurement is 6 inches or more, you have a perfect slope—no need for land grading here.
  • If not, you will need to re-grade the land by adding fill near the foundation and tamping it down; after which you can check the new slope by repeating the steps above.

You can always hire a landscape professional to assist you with proper grading around a home if you don’t want to do this yourself.

When purchasing a new home hire Heart State Inspections to do your Home Inspection and you can be sure that the grading around your new home will be checked for you, among the plethora of other items that are included in your home inspection. Heart State Inspections serves the central Ohio area and beyond. Schedule your inspection today or call 614-769-5605.

Best Columbus Ohio Home Inspector

How To Find The Best Home Inspector

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Buying a home is most likely the biggest purchase you will ever make. Even if you have experience buying houses there is always a chance that you may overlook something vital. A home inspection is crucial in helping you find these issues and bringing them to light. Heart State Inspections recommends that you have an inspection done prior to the purchase of the home. Or even post sale as we are in a competitive market currently. You should not skip on a home inspection because few hundred dollars now could bring to light a fixable issue that will save you thousands in the future. But how do you find the best Home Inspector in Columbus, Ohio?

Easy – you found Heart State Inspections so you have already successfully found one. But what are the reasons that justify this?

Tips for finding the best home inspector

There are several ways to determine if a home inspector is the right person to trust in inspecting a home you want to buy. Below are the essential things to look for when hiring a home inspector.

Should you ask your real estate agent

The answer is: absolutely! You will likely get a list of their top 3 companies they recommend. If you find that we are not listed on their list it’s because we have not had the chance to show them our value and earn their trust yet. And even if we are listed in their number one spot you should still do some more digging before just choosing any of the companies provided.

Check Reviews

Always check for Google and Facebook reviews and take the time to read some of the reviews. Even if the company is not 5 stars there could be a valid reason for that. An upset home seller might have been mad that the inspector found something that they were hiding and left a 1 star review. A home buyer might have accidentally left 4 stars. Always see how the inspection company responds and look out for honesty, ethics, and commitment to their customers.

Memberships, affiliations and certifications

At the very minimum, they should be a member of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) or a similar body such as ASHI.

Training and experience matter

Some inspectors have only had online training. Make sure that your inspector has had practical hands on training and experience. Joe was trained by the HomeSpection Training Institute based in Canton, Ohio which not only provides hands on training but also provides 40 years of experience through mentorship.

Are they licensed and insured?

Ohio is in the process of implementing licenses for Ohio home inspectors and this should become effective in 2021. Heart State Inspections has completed above and beyond the licensing requirements and is awaiting the final application process to do so. Make sure your inspector is also fully insured in the State of Ohio.

Compare Sample Home Inspection Reports

The level of detail and ease of communication in a home inspector’s report will give you an idea of their professionalism and level of thoroughness. How comprehensive are the reports? Do they describe problems in a way that you can understand easily? And do they provide enough details about the issues to make decision-making easier? You will find that the best home inspector will also be available to go over the report with you either in person or over the phone.

Do they do ancillary inspections?

An inspector who can do specialized inspections, as well as, general inspections is often better because they save you time, money, and give you a “Grand View” of the home. Additional inspections and tests that the inspector should be able to do may include; radon testing, mold testing, and wood destroying insect inspections.

How much do they cost?

Finally, how much do they cost; not in absolute terms but in terms of value provided. Choose the inspector who offers the most value, not the cheapest inspector or even the most expensive.

Do they offer any warranties or guarantees?

Make sure that you take a second to look at the warranties and/or guarantees that they offer. It is our opinion that there is only one guarantee that should even be taken seriously. That is the InterNACHI Buy Your Home Back Guarantee. Heart State Inspections is not the only company in town to offer this and for good reason. For more information on this please check out the link here.

Follow these simple steps to find the best home inspector in Columbus Ohio or just give us a call! When you need to know, go with Joe!

Since this article was written Grand View Property Inspections has grown into Heart State Inspections.

 

Columbus Ohio Radon Testing

National Radon Action Month – Get Tested!

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The only way to know your home or building contains dangerous radon levels is to have a test performed. Not all technicians adhere to equal levels of proficiency, quality control, and business practices. The National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) is recognized by federal agencies and demanded by some state radon programs. NRPP credentials indicate to homeowners and agents the mastery of the specific skills required to successfully complete radon testing and remediation projects. Heart State Inspections is certified by the NRPP – Joe Deafenbaugh Certification #111488-RT and licensed by The State of Ohio Department of Health License Number: RT1620

When it comes to understanding your risk from radon exposure, your number means a lot. Radon is measured in pico curies per liter of air (pCi/L). 4.0 pCi/L is the level established by the US EPA for action. Any building testing above this level should be fixed. High radon levels can be a risk anywhere in any state. Old homes and new homes, with and without basements can have a radon problem. And two houses right next door to each other can have very different radon levels.

Average US indoor air level = 1.3 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air). If you smoke and your radon levels are elevated, your risk for lung cancer is especially high. Smaller lungs and faster breathing rates may result in greater radon exposure in children relative to adults. Indoor radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, responsible for more than 21,000 U.S. lung cancer deaths each year. When you breathe in radon, radioactive particles from radon gas can get trapped in your lungs, where they can damage DNA as they release alpha radiation. It is National Radon Action Month – why not get tested?

Heart State Inspections used to be Grand View Property Inspections.

Hanging Holiday Lights Safety Tips

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Columbus Ohio Home Inspections - SafetyHanging Holiday Lights Safety Tips

Although holiday festivities may look a little different than normal this year, it seems that many Ohioans have gone above and beyond in decorating their homes this holiday season. If you’re planning to compete against your neighbors and to be the “Christmas Vacation House” of the block, make sure you take a couple minutes and read the following safety protocols put together by your local Columbus Ohio Home Inspector.

Inspect lights for any cord damage.

Before hanging your lights you should check each strand to make sure the cords are not frayed, as damaged cords can result in an electrical short which could injure you or cause a fire. Throw away any damaged lights and purchase new ones. Don’t forget to save those unused bulbs for replacements for years to come.

Replace any burnt out bulbs.

Make sure that you replace bulbs with the correct wattage and style. Do not install lights until you replace any broken bulbs.

Use lights made for the outdoors.

Outdoor lights are manufactured to withstand the elements such as rain, wind, or snow without being damaged or posing a risk to your home or yourself. Indoor lights have a thinner insulation which can become damaged when exposed to the cold. Reserve indoor lights for indoor use only.

Be careful when using a ladder.

When hanging lights on a roof or gutter make sure you use a ladder safely. Wear slip-resistant shoes if you have them and climb slowly. Avoid making sudden movements and make sure the ladder is installed correctly on a flat surface. We always recommend having someone hold the ladder when possible.  And always follow the 4 to 1 rule which is for every 4 feet of height you should have 1 foot away from the wall.

Don’t puncture the cords.

Try and avoid using tacks, screws, staples, or nails to hang lights. These objects can pierce through the cord’s insulation and become electrified. Not to mention the potential damage to your home. Use insulated hooks to secure the lights in place.

Most importantly remember this… It’s 2020 – so enough said!

For more tips, tricks, videos, and content, you can always scope out our Facebook and/or Instagram accounts. All of us at Heart State Inspections would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!

Grand View Property Inspections is now Heart State Inspections.

 

 

 

Columbus Ohio Home Inspections - COVID

COVID-19 Policies & Procedures

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COVID-19 Policies and Procedures

We have adopted the following safety protocols to ensure the safety of our clients, the homeowners, agents, and ourselves during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will be limiting attendance of the inspection for the last 30 – 45 minutes after the start of the inspection.  At that time we will limit the attendance to two individuals and masks and social distancing are required in order to protect all involved in this transaction.

The final walk through will be where you will be able to ask any questions that you may have as well as to allow us to provide any insight that we may have based on the homes condition.

Buyers

Should you chose not to attend the inspection we are available via phone prior to the inspection to discuss any specific questions you have about the property.  Post inspection we are available to do a phone or video call while still on the property.

We typically deliver the final inspection report to you via email the same day (in the evening) as the inspection. We will be happy to call and discuss the findings with you after the inspection, or at any time that is convenient for you.

Sellers

In occupied homes, we will be wearing gloves and a mask during the inspection on the interior of the home.  We always have designated inside only shoes for every inspection and will make sure that they will be sterilized prior to the inspection.  We will only bring tools into the home when necessary and will only set them within a single designated area typically in the kitchen counter area. Post inspection we will wipe down the area with a food grade sanitizer solution.

We will not be touching or moving any personal or stored items (this is no different than our normal policy, but this is especially important for you to know during this time). This means you will need to move items to allow access to attic spaces in closets and garages, as well as electrical panels (areas where a lot of items are typically stored).