Q. Why is radon the public health risk that it is?

A. EPA estimates that about 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the US are radon-related.  Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.  Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas produced by the decay of naturally occurring uranium in soil and water. Radon is a form of ionizing radiation and a proven carcinogen. Lung cancer is the only known effect on human health from exposure to radon in air. Thus far, there is no evidence that children are at greater risk of lung cancer than are adults. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the USA.

Q. Can you detect radon in a home?

A. Yes we can. Radon testing is a service that we offer to our clients. Real estate contracts now have "requirements" added to insure radon levels are below the accepted amounts. If you would like to have your home tested, inquire about the service when you contact us for an inspection.

For more information about radon in North Carolina, visit www.ncradon.org

 Q. What is Polybutylene?

A. Polybutylene is a plumbing pipe used in many homes in the 80' and 90's that has been known to have a higher than normal failure rate. It's no longer widely used in this area. If you suspect your home has this type of plumbing, (usually gray in supply lines and blue for main lines), then a thorough inspection of the plumbing lines should be conducted by a licensed plumbing contractor.

For more information call the PB Hotline 1-800-356-3496 or visit www.pbpipe.com

Q. Is that MOLD?

A. Mold grows in moist dark places in the home such as crawlspaces, attics, under kitchen and bathroom cabinets, vent ducts and penetrations. It can be dangerous to some and annoying to others. Learning to identify and prevent mold growth is an important aspect of home maintenance.

To learn more about the dangers and prevention of mold check out the information at these sites: www.freefrommold.org and EPA.gov

Q. What is a home inspection?

A. A home inspection is an objective, visual examination of a home’s structure, systems and mechanical systems. Think of it like having a personal physical check-up that includes blood pressure, reflexes, temperature, etc., only on the home.

Q. Are home inspectors required to be licensed?

A. Yes, in North Carolina, all home inspections performed for a fee are required to be done by a NC Licensed Home Inspector. The regulatory body governing home inspectors in North Carolina is the NC Home Inspector Licensure Board. Their home page is www.nchilb.com

Q. Should I be present at the home inspection?

A. It isn’t required for you to be present at the inspection; however, being at the inspection will help you learn about your new home. The inspector can give you tips on maintenance and upkeep. Plus it’s a good time for you to ask questions.

Q. When should I call a home inspector?

A. Normally, it’s a good idea to call in an inspector after you have made an offer to purchase the property and before closing. Many “offer to purchase” contracts include an “inspection clause” in the contract, making your purchase contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This inspection clause often specifies the time frame when the inspection must be completed.

Q. What does an inspection include?

A. The home inspector is required to observe readily visible and accessible installed systems which include: structural components, exterior, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, central air conditioning, interiors, built-in kitchen appliances, insulation and ventilation. The home inspector shall operate the mechanical systems using normal operating controls except when conditions or other circumstances may cause equipment damage. The minimum standards for home inspections in North Carolina are established by the NC Licensed Home Inspector Board and can be reviewed at www.nchilb.com