Home inspections for NYC buyers

What a buyer's inspection is for

In New York, most purchase contracts give you a short window to inspect before your deposit is at risk. The inspection tells you what's wrong with the house, what it'll cost to deal with, and what to raise with the seller while you still have leverage.

We don't pad the report. You'll get a summary of the significant issues up front: safety hazards, things that are failing, and things that will be expensive soon. Below that is every routine maintenance item, so you know the difference.

Common findings in New York houses

The city's housing stock is old, and certain problems come up again and again:

• Electrical: undersized 60-amp services, Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels, ungrounded outlets, and DIY wiring in finished basements.
• Plumbing: galvanized supply pipes with low pressure, cast-iron waste lines nearing end of life, and missing backflow protection.
• Heating: older steam and hot-water boilers, oil tanks (in use or abandoned), and chimney liners that were never upgraded.
• Water: basement seepage, negative grading toward the foundation, and flat-roof drains that back up.
• Unpermitted work: finished basements, added bathrooms, and extra units. We note what we see so your attorney can check it against the Certificate of Occupancy.

Thermal imaging, included

Every inspection includes an infrared scan. It shows temperature differences behind walls and ceilings, which helps us spot active leaks, missing insulation, and overheating electrical connections that a visual check can miss.

What we inspect

• Foundation, framing and visible structure
• Roof, flashing, gutters and drainage
• Exterior walls, windows and doors
• Electrical service, panel and outlets
• Plumbing supply, drains and water heater
• Heating and cooling systems
• Attic, insulation and ventilation
• Basement and crawl space moisture
• Chimney and fireplace (visible portions)
• Kitchen appliances
• Smoke and CO detectors
• Garage, driveway and grading

Questions