Inspection Services
What we do
At RC Certified Inspections, we strive to provide the most thorough, accurate, comprehensive home inspections and reporting in our industry. Our main whole house structural and mechanical inspection gives our clients knowledgeable information regarding possible structural and mechanical issues with the home as well as potentially hazardous toxins and pollutants in their environment. Our whole house inspection provides the client of possible major deficiencies or defects visually observed which could significantly affect the value of the property. It will generally include, but not limited, a complete inspection report on the following unless otherwise directed by the client or circumstances that prevent a visual inspection of the item: structure exterior and foundation, electrical system, plumbing system, water heater, heating system, air conditioning system (weather permitting), basement, attic, general interior including ceilings, walls, floors, doors and windows, attic ventilation and insulation, general exterior including roof, gutters, chimney, soil drainage at the foundation, concrete and wood structures like decks, porches, driveways and sidewalks, kitchen built-in appliances.
The inspections are performed in accordance with state guidelines and the Standards of Practice of InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors). These guidelines are intended to provide the client with a better understanding of the property conditions as observed at the time of the inspection. RC Certified Inspections exceeds these guidelines.
We will report visible defects based on a non-invasive visual observation only that is apparent on the day of the inspection. Our home inspections include checking for water intrusion issues and possible mold issues. Our wide range of inspection services include, but are not limited to: HOME structural and mechanical inspections, indoor air quality and mold testing and inspection, certified termite inspection (by 3rd party), radon gas testing (by 3rd party), roof (new or existing) inspection, water intrusion investigations, EIFS (Exterior Insulated Finished System, also known as synthetic stucco) non-invasive water testing and inspection, yard sprinkler system inspection, pools and spas, carbon monoxide testing, drinking water quality testing and MORE!
We are a licensed and certified residential and commercial inspection company and our inspectors go through extensive training and continuing education to ensure the highest standard of quality in each inspection. We provide 100% customer satisfaction on every job, and we want to do the same for YOU. For more information on how WE can help protect one of the biggest investments in your life by providing a comprehensive inspection or help improve your quality of living in your home. Contact RC Certified Inspections today!
Before buying or leasing any commercial property, it is essential to undertake a comprehensive structural and mechanical inspection to ensure that the property is safe and structurally sound. RC Certified Inspections offers comprehensive inspections that details your building’s environment, structural and mechanical components. Our inspectors will come to the property and perform a complete visual inspection of the buildings structural integrity, roof, electrical, plumbing, hvac systems from ground to rooftop including interior doors, windows, walls, floors and more. We’ll leave no stone unturned in getting you the knowledge to secure your property and investment.
The goal of a commercial inspection is to provide the client with the information needed to negotiate a transaction with an upper hand. When negotiating a property, knowledge and a thorough report can greatly influence the final decision. Properties have countless variables that could potentially make or break the transaction. Without the expertise of RC Certified Inspections, many variables may be over looked which could lead to substantial problems in the future.
No building is too large or complex! Strip shopping centers, multi-story office buildings, hotels, apartment complexes, industrial warehouses and many other types. All phases of inspections are available like pre-purchase, pre-lease, post lease and investigative inspections, site work, building exterior and interiors, roof, structure, foundation, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and elevators. RC Certified Inspections has a wealth of training and experience at their disposal to ensure that you’re made completely aware of every facet of your commercial property. Once our inspection is completed, RC Certified Inspections will give you a detailed explanation and report and offer advice as to the best course of action with regard to buying or repairing the property. Don’t go blindly into your new commercial property. Know what you’re getting with the help of a RC Certified Inspections commercial inspection!
Our pre-drywall and insulation inspection evaluates the condition of your new home’s major systems including framing, rough-in plumbing, rough-in HVAC, rough-in electrical, foundation, exterior and roof prior to installing insulation and drywall. Our report includes high-resolution digital photos which are useful for reference long after framing has been obscured.
Inspection Finds Issues Now
We conduct pre-drywall and insulation inspections just prior to drywall/sheetrock and insulation installation. Typical issues include cracked and/or warped framing, damaged/crimped ductwork, improper notching of floor joists, and inadequate fire stop material between floors, improper house wrap installation or penetrations or protruding flashings through exterior wall sheathing. These types of issues must be identified prior to installation of drywall; after drywall is added, the issues would be difficult to identity and very expensive to repair.
Our new home pre-drywall inspection is the 1st of our new home phase inspections, which occur at predetermined times in the construction process. The 2nd/last of the phase inspections is the final walkthrough inspection prior to your final walk-through and closing.
If we identify issues, we provide specific recommendations and next steps.
Builder warranties cover workmanship and materials relating to various components of the home, such as windows, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. You should complete a home inspection between 10 and 11 months after closing.
We provide you with a list of issues that you should present to your builder before your new home warranty expires. Our inspection covers everything from ground to roof top inside and out just like our comprehensive home inspections.
We are always available with any questions before, during or after your builder's meeting.
Get an approximate 20% faster close & 3% higher price!
- Total transaction transparency – information is shared, which establishes trust.
- More time, less stress, lower costs to make repairs – establishes value of repairs or concessions.
- Fewer conditional offers – less uncertainly for seller and buyer.
- Eliminates surprises – less negotiation, no renegotiation.
- Differentiates your listing – gives prospective buyers more confidence.
Our pre-listing inspection gives you a comprehensive understanding of the condition across a dozen major categories: exterior, roof, structure, water control systems, insulation and ventilation, interior, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, appliances and environmental possible issues.
Indoor air quality issues include mold, radon, biologicals, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, pesticides, asbestos, bacteria, and lead.
IAC2 Certified consultants have fulfilled the following minimum requirements:
- IAC2 Certified consultants are all members in good standing of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) which is the largest inspection association in the world with strict membership requirements.
- IAC2 Certified consultants have all completed at least one additional IAC2-approved course.
Our water infiltration analysis service provides moisture analysis of any structure with EIFS cladding. The purpose of this inspection is to find excessive moisture content in the structural cavities and framing. Using industry standard inspection techniques with Non-invasive moisture scanning and our high-resolution thermal infrared camera, we can identify sources of moisture intrusion. The observations are all documented in a detailed written and photographic report. Please note that the provision of a scope of work for remedial repairs is not the purpose of this inspection. Further investigation may be needed to determine the extent of water damage, if any, and how best to modify your home to address any moisture problems that may be indicated by this inspection.
Scope of Inspection
This is a basic, stucco inspection limited to the following: A visual examination of the condition of the stucco, exterior sealants, flashing, windows, doors, roof-to-stucco transitions, parapets, gutters, deck-to-building connections, stucco terminations and any penetrations through the stucco. Conducting of random electronic moisture scanning of the building envelope. Preparing a report of our observations of potential problem areas and recording any high readings found. Providing detailed information on typical moisture-related problems in stucco homes to assist you in maintaining the value of your home. EIFS has been in use for quite some time. In the 1980s, the residential construction industry began using EIFS, and since its introduction, homeowners from across the US have reported property damage due to moisture. Homeowners in states with humid climates have been most prone to EIFS-related damages. Problems arise when moisture is retained between the sheathing of a house and the foam board component of the finish system. Over time, the house’s sheathing may rot, and attract termites. In addition, where there’s moisture, there’s always the potential for mold to develop. About 30 manufacturers in the U.S. make EIFS. EIFS is used in only 2 percent of the residential construction market. These systems have been applied in the United States and Canada for over 25 years and continue to grow in popularity. Currently, approximately 285 million square feet are applied annually, and the market continues to grow about 12 percent a year. The problem is that the styrofoam-type material does not breathe, and if it’s not properly installed—and that’s the critical issue–moisture can get trapped and cause sheathing damage. Some people would assert that even if it is properly installed, the design itself inherently causes moisture in a moist climate.
What is Stucco?
The term "stucco" is used to describe a type of exterior plaster applied as a two- or three-part coating directly onto masonry, or applied over wood or metal lath to a log or wood frame structure. Stucco is a material made of an aggregate, a binder, and water. Stucco is applied wet and hardens to a very dense solid. Stucco is valued as a siding material for its attractiveness and durability and is a relatively low-maintenance (not maintenance free) exterior finish.
What are the issues we are facing with Stucco today?
Although stucco systems have been in use for many decades, in recent years it has become popular to place these systems over wood sheathing and studs. These systems can be well designed, but unfortunately, they rely upon installation details that are completely concealed after the system is completed. The most important part of the stucco cladding system is the moisture barrier and flashing system. We are finding many homes built in the last couple decades that have severe water damage are due to poor detailing by the original installers. Many of these issues go unforeseen by the home owner because they are concealed within the wall cavity. It's not until professional testing is performed that these hidden issues are discovered. Some issues, if caught early enough, do not require removal of the stucco, however, often times large wall surfaces need to be opened or completely removed to make the correct repairs. The most drastic cases are entire home tear offs.
How can I tell if water is building up in my walls?
Most times, you can’t. It is only with a comprehensive professional moisture intrusion inspection that we can identify the issues behind the stucco. There are many different methods and tools that can be used to identify potential trouble spots. Regardless of how suspect areas are identified, you cannot know exactly how much moisture is trapped without penetrating the stucco and directly measuring the moisture content of the building materials inside. An intrusive probe is required for the determination of specific moisture content. The level of moisture content of the home’s substrate, including recent weather conditions, leads us to how we need to address the issues.
What is RC Certified Inspection’s Stucco testing process?
RC Certified Inspections takes a phased approach to testing for moisture intrusion issues with stucco. Our stucco inspections consist of Phase 1 and Phase 2 testing, which is completed within one onsite appointment, and the deliverable is a custom report detailing our findings.
We begin with Phase 1, which is a preliminary visual evaluation of the home’s exterior. We encourage this to be done with the client present. At this time, we are looking for visual cues about how the system is performing and how it was installed. We’ll walk the property and take note of visual evidence of cracking, staining, and key installation details, and also look for the absence or inclusion of certain elements – head flashing above windows and kickout flashing at roof-wall intersections, for example. When these (and other) elements are not present, it’s an indication that these areas may be vulnerable so we know we need to pay close attention as we move forward through the inspection. At this time the client is encouraged to discuss areas of concern or areas where moisture intrusion has already occurred (like water staining around interior windows or doors) or where there has already been remediation work, caulking, etc. as the result of moisture intrusion issues or general maintenance.
Because it is impossible to see through walls in order to obtain facts about how the home is performing it may be necessary to move into Phase 2 testing. Phase 2 testing is an invasive testing procedure known as moisture probe testing. This requires us to drill 2 small holes, about an inch apart, and roughly the diameter of a pencil. Through these holes we insert a moisture meter to test the moisture content of the substrate behind the stucco, or the wooden part of the home. We're most concerned with testing portions of the home that are above the foundation and/or on a wooden substrate. We typically need to test and map out the most exposed areas on each wall section, such as the lower penetrations/first floor windows, as well as the roof-wall intersections and any other areas of the construction that are vulnerable based on how the home was originally designed and built. All of the moisture readings that are taken are recorded on full elevation photos of the home in our proprietary software in the location that they were taken from, providing a "map" of the moisture found in the home at the time of the inspection. We will then help you to understand the relationship between all of the readings. Other useful information is also gathered, such as is the substrate soft, is there any decay present, or is the area tested dry and firm, all of which is useful information. All of the holes are then subject to our proprietary cleaning process and are filled with a professional sealant that closely matches to the color of your stucco.
If we are able to gain access to the interior of the building to evaluate areas that have evidence of moisture intrusion (like leaky windows, water staining) and check the attic and/or basement, it does allow us to be more thorough in our inspection, as we are often able to learn more about how the system is performing and also take note of signs of moisture intrusion, staple patterns and other details at this time.
All of the information we gather during an inspection, including elevation photos with moisture readings, detail photos with specific deficiencies, a summary checklist, condition assessments, and recommendations for next steps are pulled together into a custom report.
The biggest question that we are trying to answer with Phase 1 & 2 testing is "is there a problem". Once it is determined that there is an issue with moisture intrusion at a property, additional steps may need to be taken in order to determine the deficiencies that are present in the system that have led to moisture intrusion and also to verify the extent of the associated damage. Depending on what the results of Phase 1 & 2 testing is, and what the goals of the individual client is, additional testing, known as Phase 3 testing or Destructive Testing, may need to be completed. This is where portions of the stucco/cladding are cut out and removed in order for an inspector to see the flashing and construction details, as well as potential damage and any noted construction deficiencies.
Our goal is to educate our client though the inspection process and we encourage our clients to be present for the inspection so that we can personally answer any questions and address any concerns that they may have. Please do not hesitate to call us if you should have any pre or post inspection questions.
What about thermal imaging or non-invasive techniques? What is thermal imaging’s role in stucco inspections?
Very Important: A scanner or infrared camera are great tools to help us locate moisture but cannot be used alone. The wet areas must be probed for rot and ACTUAL MOISTURE CONTENT, and then mapped to meet the test protocol. It should also be noted that a thermal imaging camera will not detect damaged areas that are not wet, while invasive probing does allow you to feel the firmness of the structure, or the absence of the structure in cases of extreme rot and decay. Short of removing the entire system, probing is the best method of testing stucco systems.
Thermal imaging is a great tool that can help us identify where potential problem areas may be within a stucco home, however, infrared cameras are very sensitive to weather conditions and should only be used by those that truly understand the technology and conditions that affect them. If not used properly, they often times produce false images that miss problem areas or indicate problems that may not be present due to external factors. Infrared cameras can be a very useful scanning tool, but again, you only know for sure how much water and damage may be behind the system by inserting probes and measuring the moisture content.
As a certified and very knowledgeable inspection company, we may use thermal imaging on inspections, when weather and other conditions support its use, to detect anomalies in a system and to help locate potential problem areas. We then verify our findings by testing those areas using resistance type probe meters to measure the associated moisture.
When you talk about "probe testing the stucco", just how big of holes do you make?
The moisture meter uses two narrow probes that require holes that are about a 1/4 inch in size. This is roughly the diameter of a standard pencil. After testing, all of the holes are subject to our proprietary cleaning process and are filled with a professional sealant that closely matches to the color of your stucco. Because of the texture of the material, the patches are generally not visible. Please remember it may be impossible to match the colors exactly due to weatherization and solar fading of the cladding or stucco. The inspector takes every precaution to make sure that the test holes are sealed to maintain the integrity of the exterior stucco.
If my walls are wet, do I have to remove all of the stucco?
Not necessarily. It depends very much on how wet they are, how long they have been wet, and how much area is affected, as well as what deficiencies are present within the system that caused the area to get wet. Corrections can range from simple caulking and sealing, to partial removal and repairs, to complete removal of the system and structural repair to the walls behind. The test probe moisture measurements, destructive testing and other factors will help you to make the final decision as to the full scope of repairs.
Can I paint my stucco?
Stucco can be painted. Portland cement-based paints are very compatible with stucco because they are made of the same material. These paints should be scrubbed into the surface and fully cured. Alternatively, you could consider a colored stucco finish. These finish coats are often made with white cement and pigments, providing the widest range of colors. Premixed materials are color matched from batch to batch and are most consistent. Additionally, the fact that you are placing a finish coat with a nominal thickness of 1/8 of an inch instead of a paint layer usually gives more assurance of complete coverage. It is possible to paint with other types of paint, though these are usually not as long lasting as cement-based paint. Acrylic paints are long lasting and durable but change the permeability of the stucco (make it non-breathable) which in some climates may have adverse effects on the long-term performance of the system. We recommend contacting a painting professional for additional information.
Can stucco be cleaned, and if so, what methods should be used? Whether you have some type of atmospheric contamination, biological growth, or staining from another construction process, stucco can be cleaned effectively. Because it is important to choose an appropriate cleaning method based on what actually created the stain, there is no single best process for cleaning stucco surfaces.
To clean a dirt-contaminated surface, the following advice is useful: Like concrete and masonry, stucco is porous, and cleaning methods are similar. It is recommended to wet the substrate starting from the bottom and working towards the top. Pre-wetting the surface helps the wall shed water, preventing dirty water from being drawn into dry pores. It also begins to loosen soil so that it can be rinsed away. A garden hose may be effective. Special fan-type sprayers are available for increased cleaning power. Whenever using water on a cement-based material like stucco, the substrate should have set and hardened. Water under pressure can etch the surface and at higher pressures can even cut through hardened stucco. To prevent this, the water spray should be moved over the surface uniformly.
Most dirt is removed fairly easily. Cleaning power is increased by doing one or more of the following: Increasing water temperature, scrubbing with a brush, or using some type of chemical detergent. You should always test the method on an inconspicuous area to first demonstrate its effectiveness and to assure that it won't damage the plaster. To clean stains other than simple soiled surfaces, we recommend contacting a pressure washing professional for additional information.
Prior to the start of any stucco or exterior cladding inspection, RC Certified Inspections requires a signed copy of our Inspection Agreement. In the case of a real estate transaction, we require signatures by BOTH the Sellers and the Buyers.
Water intrusion can cause mold growth and structural damage to your home without being visible. At the first sign of water stains on your ceiling, on your walls or around windows, you need to call us. We will come out and perform moisture tests and or water tests to determine where the water is entering your home. We perform non-invasive and invasive inspections when needed. We will evaluate the situation and make our recommendation on where the problem areas are and what is needed for corrections and repairs.
We investigate ALL residential and commercial properties.
Missing, damaged, or inadequate insulation, building envelope air leaks, moisture intrusion, and substandard work are costly to residential and commercial buildings. An infrared camera can help quickly see and find the sources of energy efficiencies, destructive water damage, and structural issues so you can make informed decisions on needed repairs that can help save energy dollars and protect your property.
Thermal infrared cameras make it easy to perform non-destructive inspections that isolate cold and warm air infiltration or ex-filtration so necessary repairs and improvements can be made to tighten energy efficiency. Thermal imagers can also instantly show temperature differences that verify what’s wet and what’s dry and IR inspection cameras are preferred most by building experts for fast, reliable diagnosing of a full range of building applications, from energy audits and restoration to roofing and commissioning.
Thermal Imaging for Energy Auditing & Home Inspection
Thermal imaging for air tightness and energy efficiency are important quality control measures when building or renovating a home. Heat loss can account for up to 50% of total energy consumption in a building with causes ranging from air leakage through chimneys, attics and wall vents to badly sealed doorways and failing argon gas windows to missing insulation.
Detection and Visualization of Air Infiltration and Exfiltration
Adequate air exchange is important for occupant comfort, health and safety, but most buildings have a far higher rate of air leakage than necessary. The root cause is often poor design and/or construction which allows air to leak in or out. Without thermal imaging, the source of these drafts can be extremely difficult to detect and visualize. But with thermal imager in hand, we can readily uncover the source of the heat issue, leading to helpful advice on the best improvements and repairs to stop energy loss.
Thermal imaging cameras are well-established as valuable inspection tools that help reveal missing insulation, HVAC air flow and equipment issues, radiant heating malfunctions, compromised roofing, and much more. By detecting and locating patterns and sources of heat loss that are invisible to the naked eye, thermal images provide convincing evidence in reports where improvements need to be made and how well they’ve been completed.
Thermal Imaging for Property & Facility Management
Infrared thermography is a powerful, non-invasive way to monitor and troubleshoot building envelope and structural problems as well as electrical/mechanical issues, whether it’s at an apartment, office complex, or manufacturing plant.
Stop Guessing – Start Seeing
Thermal imaging detects the infrared energy of any surface and produces a detailed image showing its temperature profile. Non-destructive and non-contact, the technology provides a safer, more cost-effective way to evaluate a building’s performance. It also has proven to be very effective and accurate tool for facility predictive maintenance (PdM) programs.
