Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at mitchb@lakeshoreinternet.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

I scheduled an appointment, but I don't see where to pay for service ?

Payment is due at the time of service. Once you schedule an appointment, I will either call if I have questions based on the age, size or location of the home. If there are no questions you will receive a confirmation email and a simple link in the email for secure CC or ACH payment. You can pay by credit card using the secure link emailed to you or Venmo or Cash, and Payment is due at the time of service.

What is the process for Booking an Inspection ?

You can book online through this website, and there are booking links above. You can also simply call me or text me and we can review any questions and set a time that works for you.

I'm easy to talk to and my goal is to make it simple. My cel is 616-843-4663.

How and when do I get my Report ?

Your report is generated in PDF format within and will be emailed the SAME DAY to the email you provided in the booking once payment is received. If you would like to have it emailed to more than one email, simply let me know. If you have a tight schedule and need it more quickly let me know. Many times I can complete a report onsite depending on several factors.

Do you do Radon Gas Testing, Mold, Pest, Lead or other services ?

YES! Please see the Service Prices page for a list of other services.

I have a very advanced Radon Gas Testing instrument with sensitivity of 30 counts per hour per pCi/L. To put this into context, this is 15 times more counting sensitive than the minimum standard (2 cph/pCi/L) set by ANSI/AARST.
I have used many different Mold Testing kits and narrowed down to the best one with clear results and fast service. I only make $3 on the Mold Test, it is simply an additional service if we need it.
For Pest Inspections, I will be inspecting throughout the whole house for the base inspection. If I see initial signs of pest activity, then we can add the Pest Inspection. If you need the NPMA-33 form for a VA / FHA loan then we can add the fee.
Lead paint is a swab with a visual examination. I have test kits with me and we can do testing for any paint or surface we think is suspect.

Should I be there for the Inspection ?

Yes, but I like to talk with you the home buyer during the last 30 minutes, after I have gone through the home and have most of the preliminary results. We can walk around and discuss the findings first hand.

I can also inspect your home if you are out of town or not able to be present, and I have done many of these. We will face time, or video call and thereby do a real nice end of inspection review.

What is inspected in the home? How Comprehensive is the inspection?

I have been building, maintaining and inspecting buildings for 30 years. As a certified (American Society of Home Inspectors) Inspector we follow the ASHI inspection standards. The inspection covers the Home and all "installed or attached" appliances (Think . . furnace, dishwasher, water heater). Freestanding appliances like a dehumidifier, fans, or even washer and dryer are generally not included, although I will check those out if I see anything that looks suspect. A garage from 1-3 cars in size is included.

Building and Constructed Systems

Roof, shingles, flashing, soffits, Chimney and vents
Exterior, grading (very important), decking, porch, walks, drives
Foundation, crawlspace, structure, framing
Interior, walls, ceiling, windows, doors
Heating, Cooling, Plumbing equipment and distribution and delivery systems
Attic, ventilation, structure framing and support
Fireplace (overview), garage or outbuilding

Generally included appliances:

Furnace, hot water heater, air conditioner
installed ovens, ranges, surface cooking appliances, microwave ovens, dishwashing machines, and food waste grinders
Inspected by using normal operating controls to activate the primary function.

Generally not included are;

screens, fences, retaining walls, docks
soils, soil conditions
outbuildings other than up to a 3 car garage or carport
pool, poolhouse, sauna, steambath, or other accessories

Additional Services

Pool, poolhouse
Mold Testing (I will always keep my eye out and note conditions or mold present, a mold test, swabbed, tape collection and mailed to our mold testing service is additional)
Lead Paint Test
Radon Gas Testing (My test Instrument will achieve a 95% confidence in 2hrs)

What if the rooms are filled with boxes ? or you don't have access ?

If there are rooms or areas where windows, walls or the floor cannot be inspected, those will be noted in the report. You can provide the report to the seller and this will give you an avenue for recourse later if a defect was found to be hidden.

What are the Home Buyer Benefits of an Inspection ?

A Buyers Home Inspection;

Helps you make a smart investment for your dream home by providing an accurate, reliable and independent condition assessment.
Can help you save money and avoid costly repairs on issues that are not visible or obvious.

$3,000 - $5,000 for a new furnace

$2,000 - $4,000 for a new air conditioner

$700 - $1,500 for a new water heater

* Mechanical and building systems beyond the end of useful life can be at risk of failure.

Give you details for price negotiations

$10,000 - $20,000 for a new roof for a 3,000 s.f. home

$1,000 - $10,000 for concrete lifting, crack repair or structural repairs

Helps you protect your family's health and safety

What are the Home Seller Benefits of an Inspection ?

A Sellers Inspection;

Helps you attract buyers by providing an accurate, reliable and independent condition assessment.
Identify repairs that might not be visible ahead of time, so you can prepare to negotiate.