My name is Thomas Herbst I am a Home inspector in Gardner Ma area. I started Clayton Home Inspections back in 1994 with the purpose of providing a thorough home inspection in Gardner Ma so, homebuyers can feel good about moving into their new home. Prior to that, I was in construction since 1979. I started from the ground up and have a Pest Certification License over many years and Certified Wood destroying certification for many years now and retained my pest license and Home inspector License ever since.
This knowledge and Experience is useful when inspecting the structure also electrical system, plumbing system, heating system and looking for signs of active insect or damage, as insects can cause significant damage to a house. It is highly unlikely that you will find another home inspector with that much experience in House construction and pest damage Identification, along with that much experience in home inspections. Now, I’m also not just talking about having a Home Inspection license. I’m Also talking about having the genuine experience as a Contractor. Anybody can get a Home improvement license.
If you want to find some of the best home inspectors near me in Gardner Ma, you certainly need to do some research. There’s nothing worse than moving into a house and then recognizing that you need to drop $10,000-50K into it immediately, all because of an unskilled home inspector.
First, go to the State’s Board of Home Inspectors’ website and make certain the inspector’s license is still effective. Next, check the inspector out at the Better Business Bureau. Check for complaints and read any reviews that may be posted.
Don’t go for the inexpensive home inspector. In this industry, oftentimes you usually get what you pay for. Whatever you’re spending for that house, it’s a lot of money and searching for a home inspector with a “bargain-basement hunter’s” mentality is certainly not the right method. Hope to hear from you soon.
Water damage
This is a significant part of a home inspection, as water is a home’s “worst adversary”. I am additionally inspecting the gutters and downspouts to safeguard they are taking the water far enough away from the structure.
Exterior Inspection
In addition I’m throughly examining the walls/siding, fascia’s, rake boards, soffits, and windows. I’m also checking the structural integrity of the building. In addition to Inspecting for structural integrity and safety and Inspecting underside, as well (if possible). Also I Examining the condition of the roofing material (ie: shingles, etc.). Also inspecting vent pipes, exhaust vents, and skylights.
Attic Inspection
In addition to confirming fundamental reliability of the roof and making sure the attic is appropriately vented and insulated. Also examination support system and for signs of water infiltration. In addition to Inspecting chimney (if present) and making sure there is a sufficient amount of insulation.
Interior Inspection
In addition to Walls, Floors, Ceilings, Doors & Windows Inspection. The State regulations only require that we operate one door and window per room. I go well beyond that.
Kitchen Inspection
In-addition State regulations do not require us to inspect appliances. I do not inspect and operate dishwashers, ranges, microwaves and trash compactors.
Bathroom Inspection
Also Inspect plus operate all toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers, checking for leaks and proper functionality. Also, inspect any exhaust fans.
Basement Inspection
Ensuring structural integrity, looking for signs of water penetration and also inspecting bulkheads.
Heating System Inspection (Temperature Permitting)
Also Inspect and operate all boilers, furnaces and air handlers. Making sure each room has a heat source. Inspection of oil tanks is not mandated by the State but they are certainly included in my home inspection.
Inspect and operate all cooling systems in-season (ie: condensers, compressors, evaporator coils, heat pumps, etc.).
Plumbing System Inspection
Inspect plus operate all plumbing fixtures. In addition to Observing for leaks in supply and drainage pipes everywhere and Inspecting there are no clogged pipes (backups). Water heaters are inspected.
Electrical System Inspection
Extremely important part of a home inspection from a cost standpoint, as well as safety and Inspecting all electrical panels. Also Ensuring proper grounding of an electrical system and Inspecting all visible wiring throughout the building for loose and/or exposed wires. The State regulations only require us to check one outlet per room. I go way beyond that.
Termite Inspection
I am also looking for any kind of insect damage (ie: carpenter ant, termite, etc.) My 15 years (previous) experience as a contractor along with my 24 years experience as a home inspector simply cannot be matched. If you or someone you know has more experience than me in each of these two fields (and can prove it) then I will gladly remove this claim.
Well water test
This test is highly recommended for any house with Well water. I can test for up to 26 items in the water (ie: bacteria, lead, iron, VOC’s etc.).
Radon Testing (add’l fee)
Radon
If there is a finished basement or if you plan on finishing it, then this test is highly recommended. There are also other situations that would constitute performing a radon test.
Any Questions?
Call Today (978) 793-1346
Introduction to Gardner, Massachusetts
Gardner, Massachusetts, in Worcester County, is 23 miles NW of Worcester, Massachusetts and 50 miles W of Boston, Massachusetts. The city is considered part of the Fitchburg – Leominster metropolitan area. Gardner has a population of 20,770.
Gardner History
The city of Gardner is named after Col. Thomas Gardner. The city first settled in 1764. incorporated In 1785 as a town. Land grants received from the surrounding towns of Westminster, Winchendon, Ashburnham and Templeton. Gardner became a major center for lumber and furniture industries during 1805. In 1923, Gardner incorporated as a city. It is also known as “The Furniture Capital of New England” and the “Chair City.”
Gardner and nearby Attractions
Things To Do In Gardner
Gardner offers a number of recreational activities. You can visit the chair and furniture manufacturing companies of the city. There are several unique shops, restaurants, and bars in Gardner. The city also has a municipal golf course.
Gardner Transportation
Air transportation is available from Worcester Regional Airport.
Gardner Higher Education
Mount Wachusett Community College is the local college.