QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

WHY USE A HOMECHECK SERVICE

First off you have home insurance policy. Your policy may require you to have a professional check on your residence while you are away. Check the policy and understand what the requirements are when you are away. Having calgaryhomecheck.com can help you avoid or minimize issues early on such as leaks, bugs, furnace or A/C issues, reset power during power outages, checking on frig/freezer and other mechanical pieces, watering plants, and making sure the landscaper or snow removal guy is doing their job. Starting the car, picking up mail are some of the smaller things that get done

WHY RUN THE WATER LINES

Running water for a few minutes can help clear out any air bubbles that have accumulated in the water lines. This is very important especially when the water supply is shut off after each visit. Running the water can also identify and visible leaks in the plumbing lines. We check under the sinks, around the toilets, in the utility room and any area that has water. Some of the tell-tale signs I look for are soft or spongy drywall, musty smells, discoloration on walls or ceilings, peeling or bubbling paint, rust or corrosion, moisture around water fixtures and of course standing water in the basement or crawl space area. I double check the water meter for any movement for activity. Photos are taken at the time of visit for insurance purposes and your protection.

WHY CHECK AND TEST THE THERMOSAT

Your thermostat controls the heat and cool options in your home. By testing the system every visit for a few moments, I can ensure that it is working properly. I use a thermal infrared gun to test temperatures blowing out from the air vents around the home and in the basement. 

WHY IS EVERY ROOM IS CHECKED

I check each and every room in your home from the ceiling, the windows to the floor for any visible issues. WHY?? After rainstorm or snow melting, water issues can happen overnight. Insurance companies will not insure you if the issue hasn't been addressed within a set timeline. This is a major reason I take photos for your protection. Walls and floors are check for any bug activity. Common issues that we have found include water damage, cracks in the walls and ceiling, bug infestations, mold growth from rains and humidity, and issues with plumbing and electricity. By inspecting I can identify any potential problems letting you know before they become a major issue. 

WHY DO THE OUTSIDE PERIMTER WALK

I walk the outside perimeter of your home looking for any pest infestation activity, cracks on the side walls and foundation, the windows are checked for potential security breaches. The outside valves and drains are checked to make sure they are clear and unobstructed. During the winter months ice is removed so a smooth water flow is fluid and there is no visible structural damage. 

WHY THE PHOTOS AND WITH A DETAILED REPORT

During the home check home watch inspection detailed photos are taken in each key area of the home. It gives you true peace of mind but also serves as protection against insurance companies if ever issues arise. They are in the business of not wanting to pay out claims. The detailed reports include sections of the home and sections where comments are used to describe, and issues found with the corresponding pictures that were taken.  Of course, an immediate phone call and text is made to you from your home is there is an issue or problem. I will never leave the home until I speak with you. I take up to 40 interior/exterior photos and a full report that is customized and not generic. I use a thermal infrared gun to check the heat or AC coming out of the air vents as well as a "Flir" moisture sensor in those hard-to-get places inside your home walls that can detect the smallest water leak before a major catastrophe. The 40+ photos are for your protection if any insurance issues arise, and the reporting tells the story of what took place over the 20-minute home check. Yes, 20 minutes minimum to do a true home check. Unlike others It's all about "trust but verify".

THE ADVANTAGE OF www.calgaryhomecheck.com

I am your eyes, ears and boots on the ground while you are miles away from your home. There is the added level of security plus peace of mind. I can ensure that everything is in order just the way you left it. I check for any signs of break ins, making sure the windows, doors, and locks are securely locked, and checking for any potential issues that are visible or see at time of visit. There might be safety issues like ice buildup on the driveways and rooftops, having the proper photos can protect you in the case of accidents or injuries. I will collect the mail from the mailbox, amazon packages from the front door. All the indoor plants are watered and cared for. Combined with the photos and reporting system, it makes for your return home stress free. I have 16 years' experience doing just that ( home check home watch ). I am passionate about what I do and always strive to be the best. Quite often I am called by other home watch companies to mentor them when issues arise. Again, I am your eyes, ears and boots on the ground when you can't be here.

UTILITY ROOM CHECK

This is the most important check inside the home because it where the utilities and operating systems are located typically. The furnace, water heater/boiler, electrical panel HVAC system are there. With each visit and checking thoroughly you can ensure that these "critical" operating systems are in good working order. This can help you avoid the risk of unexpected breakdowns, or real costly repairs and insurance claims. Cold weather in Calgary winters can expose heating issues, insulations problems, or plumbing problems that go unnoticed in the warmer months. When its -20C the last this you want is the furnace to go out thus causing water damage because the water line froze or the water lines inside the wall cracked. Checking the air vents can expose things like cold spots, wind drafts which can cause significant problems if left unchecked. When was the last time your home watch company showed you a photo of an air vent blowing warm air?