Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Q. How many inspectors will be assigned to my property?

A. The number of inspectors we send to inspect depends on the size of the property and the additional services ordered. The larger the property, the more inspectors we send. If special services are ordered such as Sewer Line Inspection, Radon Testing, Mold Testing, Lead-Based Paint Testing or Termite Inspection. We do send an in house inspector who specialized in such services.

Q. Do you carry insurance?

A. Yes, we carry all the necessary insurances required by State of Illinois.

Q. How and when do I pay for the services?

A. After completing the booking questionnaire, we will verify the necessary information and send you a confirmation via email and text with a link to sign agreement and pay invoice. This is due upon receipt of confirmation. We accept credit, debit and bank transfer. We do not accept checks or cash.

Q. How long will it take to get the report?

A. The state requires that we send reports within 2 business days of inspection day, however, we usually provide reports the same business day with the exception of commercial inspections and evening inspections.

Q. Can you refer an electrician, plumber, carpenter, hvac, etc ?

A. Unfortunately, we no longer provide referrals to 3rd parties, we do not price any jobs for 3rd parties no do we re-inspect 3rd party trades after repairs are done. We recommend to contact your realtor who is very resourceful and can help you.

Q. Can I have a receipt for a past inspection.

A. A copy of the paid invoice was sent when you paid and then again with your report. If you need another link to the report, just provide the property address and we will send as soon as we are able.

Q. I have a question about a past report.

A. What’s the question, I may be able to help?

Q. Do you accept checks?

A. We accept credit, debit, and bank transfers. We do not accept checks or cash. Payment is due at time of booking. We do not collect payment on site.

Q. Is there a cancellation fee?

A. Yes, if cancellation is made same day of inspection, there is a cancellation fee. Cancellation fee vary on the distance traveled to the site.

Q. I need to talk to an inspector about an issue with an inspection.

A. I'm really sorry to hear that. Please explain in detail the issue and include the property address. If I can’t help you, I will relay the message. Baxtie will pull the report, investigate then return your call as soon as she is able.

Q. What services do you offer?

A. We inspect the following types of properties: single-family, multi-family homes, condos, townhomes, multi-unit properties, and all types of commercial buildings including mixed-used. We also offer the following add-On Services also known as ancillary services: Mold testing, radon testing, sewer line inspections, termite inspections, and lead-based paint testing. We provide same day reports, in most cases. Pricing depends on size, type and location of service.

Q. Do you do phase inspections?

A. Unfortunately, we do not offer phase inspections. It is not a service that is often requested.

Q. What is included in single family or multi family inspections?

A. Our single-family, multi-family and mixed used inspection services includes interior & exterior structure as well as all major mechanicals such as electrical, plumbing, hvac and roof.

Q. Do you provide floor plans?

A. Unfortunately, we do not offer floor plans. It is not a service that is often requested.

Q. Do you inspect chimney?

A. We inspect chimney's as far as we can visually see. However, for a thorough inspection of the entire chimney line, we recommend a chimney sweep followed by a video scope of the chimney liner. A local chimney sweep expert should be contacted.

Q. Will you provide an agreement?

A. Yes, we provide an agreement and receipt before the inspection. It is important that you sign the agreement prior to the start of any inspection.

Q. Do you provide repair pricing?

A. Unfortunately, we no longer provide 3rd party referrals nor do we price and jobs for 3rd parties. We recommend that you contact your realtor who is very resourceful for contacts. Another great source is facebook community groups. Just remember to check reviews before you hire a contractor.

Q. Can I request a specific inspector?

A. We assign inspectors based on the size of the inspector availability, property, location and services ordered. For specific requests, please mention it when booking. We will do our best to occamodate your request.

Q. Do you inspect appliances?

A. Although appliances are not part of our scope of practice, we do a spot inspection on appliance as a courtesy. Because appliances are volatile, we recommend that you re-inspect appliances at time of final walk through.

Q: How much is mold testing?

A: Mold testing is $350 for 2 samples, plus $105 for each additional sample. Results are ready in about 3 business days.

Q: Can I book an inspection for tomorrow?

A: Availability depends on property size, type, and location. Check live availability and book online at cityhomeinspectors.com.

Q: Is Baxtie or another inspector available to talk?

A: Inspectors are in the field, but a team member can call you back if needed.

Q: I have a complaint?

A: Sorry to hear that. Please provide the property address and issue. A staff member will follow up.

Q: How many inspectors will be assigned?

A: It depends on property size and any add-on services. Specialists are sent for services like sewer, radon, mold, or termite.

Q: Do you carry insurance?

A: Yes, we carry insurance as required by the State of Illinois.

Q: How and when do I pay?

A: After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation with a link to sign the agreement and pay. Payment is due upon receipt. We accept credit, debit, or bank transfer (no cash/checks).

Q: How long will it take to get the report?

A: Reports are usually delivered same day, but state law allows up to 2 business days.

Q: Can you refer contractors (electrician, plumber, etc.)?

A: No, we do not provide referrals or pricing. Please consult your realtor or search online.

Q: Can I get a receipt for a past inspection?

A: Receipts are emailed at payment and with your report. Provide the property address if you need another copy.

Q: I have a question about a past report.

A: Please ask your question. If needed, a staff member will follow up

Q: Do you accept checks?

A: No, only credit, debit, or bank transfers.

Q: Is there a cancellation fee?

A: Yes, if cancellation is the same day as the inspection. The fee varies by travel distance.

Q: What services do you offer?

A: We inspect single-family, multi-family, condos, townhomes, commercial and mixed-use. Ancillary services: radon, mold, sewer, termite, lead-based paint, pool. HUD 203k consulting also offered.

Q: Do you do phase inspections?

A: No, phase inspections are not offered.

Q: What’s included in inspections?

A: Interior, exterior, roof (via drone/attic), HVAC, electrical, plumbing, insulation, ventilation, and structure.

Q: Do you provide floor plans?

A: No, not offered.

Q: Do you inspect chimneys?

A: We inspect what is visible. For full review, hire a chimney sweep for a scope.

Q: Will I receive an agreement?

A: Yes, agreements must be signed before inspections start.

Q: Do you provide repair pricing?

A: No, we do not price or re-inspect 3rd party work.

Q: Can I request a specific inspector?

A: Yes, requests can be noted. We try to accommodate based on availability.

Q: Do you inspect appliances?

A: Spot checks only, not covered by standards. Recheck at final walk-through.

Q: Is there a return fee if something was inaccessible?

A: Yes, fees vary by distance if inspectors must return.

Q: Are you licensed or certified?

A: Yes, licensed in Illinois and Certified Master Inspectors.

Q: What days and times are inspections available?

A: Monday–Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–5pm.

Q: My agreement link isn’t working.

A: Refresh your browser. If still unavailable, we can resend it.

Q: Do you provide pest inspections?

A: Yes, termite inspections are offered.

Q: Can you provide a separate termite report?

A: Yes, commonly used for VA loans.

Q: Can reports be sent to someone else?

A: By contract, reports only go to clients or their realtor. Clients may forward them.

Q: How long do refunds take?

A: Credit card refunds: 3–5 business days. Bank transfer: 5–7 business days.

Q: Why did the inspector arrive early?

A: Inspectors often arrive early to inspect the exterior and roof.

Q: Can I remove or add services to my order?

A: Yes, provide the property address. Staff will adjust your order.

Q: Sewer line couldn’t be found—will I get a refund?

A: Yes, refund less $75 service fee and transaction costs.

Q: My radon report is blank.

A: Monitors must remain for 48 hours. Reports sent after retrieval.

Q: My mold report is blank.

A: Lab results take 2–3 business days. Final report sent when complete.

Q: My sewer scope report is blank.

A: Reports are finalized by end of next business day.

Q: What does contract Paragraph 217 mean about retests?

A: It states sellers pay for retests, but it’s negotiable. Retests are typically done by the same inspection company, not the mitigation contractor.

Q: I can’t retrieve my report.

A: Full payment and signed agreement are required before reports are released.

Testing Service FAQs

Q: What do mold test results mean?

A: Three categories: Normal, Slightly Elevated (improve ventilation, fix leaks), or Highly Elevated (hire licensed remediation).

Q: What do radon test results mean?

A: Below 4.0 pCi/L = acceptable. Above 4.0 = mitigation required. EPA recommends retesting after mitigation and every 2 years.

Q: What do sewer scope results mean?

A: Reports show Normal, Clogged Lines, or Cracked Pipes. Repairs must be completed by a licensed plumber.

Policies FAQs

Q: Do you inspect roofs?

A: We do not walk on pitched roofs. We use drones and inspect attics when accessible. Flat roofs may be walked if safe.

Q: Do you use thermal imaging?

A: Yes, inspectors use thermal imaging, outlet testers, temperature readers, and moisture meters at their discretion.

Q: Do you open valves or light pilots?

A: For safety, we do not open water/gas valves or ignite pilots.

203k HUD Consulting FAQs

Q: What is a 203k loan?

A: It’s an FHA loan allowing purchase/refinance plus renovation costs in one mortgage.

Q: Who benefits from 203k loans?

A: Buyers of fixer-uppers, owners refinancing, and investors improving property value.

Q: What does a 203k consultant do?

A: Conducts feasibility studies, prepares work write-ups, cost estimates, draw inspections, and ensures HUD compliance.

Q: How is pricing determined?

A: Based on property size and project scope. Staff will follow up with details.

CONTACT US

FACEBOOK

Follow Us

OFFICE ADDRESS

Illinois

City Home Inspectors, LLC

1010 Lake St. #200

Oak Park, IL 60301

Florida

1010 Lake St. #200

Sarasota, Fl 34236

© Copyright - City Home Inspectors, LLC