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AmeriSpec New Brunswick Home Inspectors & NRCan-Registered Energy Advisors

AmeriSpec Inspection Services | New Brunswick
Home Inspections and Energy Evaluations You Can Trust

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506-260-3664

About Us

Giving you the peace of mind you need to make the right decision since 2005

AmeriSpec is the New Brunswick home inspection national brand you can trust from coast-to-coast. We also offer registered New Brunswick Energy Advisors who can provide an EnerGuide home evaluation to help you save money by making your home more energy efficient.
 
Voted the #1 home inspection company by BobVila™ and Forbes Advisor, we have more than 35 years of experience and over two million home inspections performed. AmeriSpec’s in-depth home inspection training for New Brunswick home inspectors combines classroom instruction, in-field home inspections, and hands-on technical training in our cutting-edge facility.
 
Beyond our comprehensive homeowner energy evaluation, AmeriSpec offers New Brunswick EnerGuide labels and Energy Star certifications for home builders. Plus, we deliver in demand New Brunswick home inspection specialty services that exceed home buyer, first time home buyer, home seller, and real estate agent expectations.

BOOK OUR SERVICES
Call us at 506-260-3664.
We will answer your calls from 7am - 10pm, 7 days a week!

Need a New Brunswick Home Inspector?
View Our Services

BUYER’S HOME INSPECTION SERVICES

Buying a home can be an anxious time. You have found the home of your dreams, but are concerned that it may have poor workmanship or problems such as cracks in the foundation, old or deteriorating plumbing, a faulty heating system, or unsafe or dated electrical wiring. It’s because of these possible problems that you should call the professionals at AmeriSpec for a home inspection before buying a house.

Read More

BOOK OUR SERVICES

SELLER’S HOME INSPECTION SERVICES

Pre-listing home inspection reports available to view for FREE online – anytime, anywhere. AmeriSpec OnDemand is here to change the way pre-listing home inspections work!
AmeriSpec OnDemand is a website offering full AmeriSpec pre-sale home inspection reports.

Read More

BOOK OUR SERVICES

ENERGY EVALUATIONS

Want your home as energy efficient as possible? AmeriSpec inspection services offer energy assessments across the country through the EnerGuide for Houses and Energy Star Programs.

Read More



BOOK OUR SERVICES

NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION INSPECTION

A new home inspection is your chance to make sure that the work you requested and were promised is complete. You can ascertain what work remains to be done and what work needs to be corrected or redone. Don’t skip this important step in the process. Plan a full tour of your new home in the presence of your contractor and a qualified inspector from AmeriSpec.

Read More



BOOK OUR SERVICES

RADON TESTING
SERVICES

Is there A killer lurking in your home?
Radon is a colourless, odourless gas that occurs naturally outdoors in harmless amounts. It’s produced from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It can get concentrated in homes built on soil with natural uranium deposits. Radon enters buildings through cracks in floors or walls, construction joints, or gaps in foundations around pipes, wires or pumps. The presence of radon in the home is a serious risk to the health of you and your family.

Read More

BOOK OUR SERVICES

WATER TESTING
SERVICES

The quality of your water is very important to you and your family. . An Amerispec inspection examines your home water supply for contaminants and pollutants, such as chlorine, lead and coliform bacteria. Testing can also reveal an imbalance of the pH level and other factors to ensure that a home’s water is safe for everyday use. The condition of your water quality is often a requirement when obtaining a mortgage.

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AIR QUALITY
TESTING SERVICES

Protecting yourself and your family from harmful contaminants in your home is very important. Poor indoor air quality can have profound negative effects on your health and the health of your family. It can affect your productivity and the enjoyment of your home. Take the first step toward a healthy home by calling the AmeriSpec about a Healthy Home Inspection.

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Our History

There's no place quite like your home.

AmeriSpec is North America’s leading home inspection service. With our 1996 purchase by ServiceMaster, we became part of the largest and most trusted home service provider in the world. The AmeriSpec name is the industry standard for quality, service and value. With over 75 franchise licences from coast-to-coast, AmeriSpec Canada conducts more home inspections, and serves more satisfied customers than anyone else in the country. There truly is no place quite like your home!

For more information on our parent company, ServiceMaster of Canada, please visit www.servicemaster.ca.

Our New Brunswick Home Inspection Team

Bill Hall
Certified Home Inspector
Business Owner

Bill is has been a certified home inspector for over 16 years and has been involved in both residential and commercial construction. He has worked as a certified energy advisor with both the provincial and federal governments. Bill is extensively trained on building science and energy efficiency of residential construction. He has performed more than 6000 pre-purchase inspections and over 4000 energy evaluations. Feel confident that you are putting one of the largest purchases you ever make in the capable hands of this inspector, his experience and knowledge is truly second to none.
Bill Hall
Certified Home Inspector
Business Owner

Bill is has been a certified home inspector for over 16 years and has been involved in both residential and commercial construction. He has worked as a certified energy advisor with both the provincial and federal governments. Bill is extensively trained on building science and energy efficiency of residential construction. He has performed more than 6000 pre-purchase inspections and over 4000 energy evaluations. Feel confident that you are putting one of the largest purchases you ever make in the capable hands of this inspector, his experience and knowledge is truly second to none.

What Our Customers Are Saying

5/5
“The report and accompanying photos were very thorough and the information was very helpful. The report not only included information about the current status of the property, but also contained information about what and how to maintain the property on a regular basis. Bill Hall was professional and courteous on the telephone and he worked directly with our realtor as we were from out of province and could not attend the inspection.”
W.R.
Rusagonis, NB
5/5
“You were very thorough, I appreciate well organized information. Also great to have multiple types of inspection (ie water testing) available from the same company. I was very satisfied with the service provided and will come back to you for additional testing when we deem it necessary.”
J.B.R.B.
Upper Tracy, NB
5/5
“The inspector did an excellent job. Very knowledgeable and provided a very descriptive assessment of the defects of the house. Also, he went above and beyond to explain how to prevent damage and maintenance certain equipment in this particular house. For example; a brief explanation on the air exchanger and how to properly maintain its cleanliness was provided.”
B.A.
Rusagonis, NB
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Our New Brunswick
House Inspectors Proudly Serve….

AmeriSpec New Brunswick home inspection services provide residential home inspections, energy evaluations and related ancillary services in the following areas:

  • Fredericton
  • Oromocto
  • Saint John
  • St. Andrews
  • St. Stephen
Have a question? We’re available from 7am – 10pm, 7 days a week. Call 506-260-3664.

Our Partners

Movesnap

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As an AmeriSpec customer, you’re entitled to a FREE account with Movesnap! This online concierge will help you with every step of the moving process, and all of the tasks are easy to see and manage on the dashboard. MoveSnap will help you with transferring utilities and home services, changing your address to redirect mail, updating your address on important documents, hiring movers, renting a truck, and more.
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Home Binder

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FREE with every AmeriSpec home inspection, HomeBinder is a free digital resource full of useful information. This complimentary online binder helps you track, manage and organize everything in your home. This includes contractor and warranty information, maintenance reminders, recall notes, and much more.

Professional Property Inspections.
View Our Resources

AmeriSpec of  New Brunswick is happy to provide you with the following tools and tips that you can use when buying, selling, upgrading or renovating your home.

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Guide to Home Inspection
Moving Checklist
Insurance Checklist
Standards of Practice
Sample Report - Home Inspection

Our Blog

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AmeriSpec of New Brunswick
12 Saint Charles Court
Upper Kingsclear, NB E3E 0C7  
Telephone: 506-260-3664
Email: [email protected]
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MOULD TESTING

Breathe Easy With An AmeriSpec Mould Inspection

What is Mould? Is it really a health concern? Some moulds are more hazardous than others, and different people have different responses to mould exposure. Those with allergies, existing respiratory conditions or suppressed immune systems are especially susceptible to health problems from mould exposure. Researchers have identified that some fungi in indoor environments can induce allergic and irritant responses, infectious diseases, respiratory problems, hypersensitivity reactions, and organ toxicity. In addition, some moulds produce chemicals called mycotoxins, which can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, health problems that are attributable to mould are temporary and can be controlled by limiting exposure to moulds.

SEVERAL FACTORS AFFECT MOLD GROWTH:  

Nutrient Availability

Nutrients absorb moisture to maintain a favourable environment for mold growth and can be found on many surfaces, including soil, dirt, wood, cellulose (paper, ceiling tile, jute carpet backing, cork, pipe, wrap), and some forms of insulation, such as fabric, oil, etc.

Moisture Content

The amount of moisture in a material influences how an organism can support growth. Moisture sources include condensation in humid rooms, on windows, walls, unheated closets, dampness under carpets, shower curtains, and periodic wet sections in duct work of air-conditioned ventilation.

Nutrient Availability

Mould typically requires between 5°C and 38°C to grow.

DID YOU KNOW?

Past studies have indicated that up to 90% of mould growth is not visible on the surface. Certain guidelines state that an invasive inspection is necessary to make a complete assessment of the extent of mould contamination in a building.

Give us a call and ask our Certified Mould Specialists to learn more!

AIR QUALITY TESTING SERVICES

Breathe Easy With An Amerispec Healthy Home Inspection

Protecting yourself and your family from harmful contaminants in your home is very important. Poor indoor air quality can have profound negative effects on your health and the health of your family. It can affect your productivity and the enjoyment of your home. Take the first step toward a healthy home by calling the AmeriSpec about a Healthy Home Inspection. Our healthy home inspection will take a close look at your home’s air quality and suggest ways to help reduce allergies, respiratory ailments, eye irritation and asthma symptoms. 

Why choose Healthy Homes by AmeriSpec?

  • Professional residential indoor air quality testing (IAQ) and indoor environmental assessment
  • Industry leaders in home inspection services for over 30 years
  • Reliable and experienced technicians
  • Leading edge technology and processes

Air testing involves taking a sample of the air in your home and analyzing it in a specialized laboratory. Some institutions may require an air test to detect the threat of mould. Air quality testing is also performed after decontamination too. This ensures that contractor work has been performed correctly. 

Breathe easier with an AmeriSpec Healthy Home inspection. Book an appointment today!

ENERGY EVALUATION SERVICES

How Energy Efficient Is Your Home?

Want your home as energy efficient as possible? AmeriSpec inspection services offer energy assessments across the country through the EnerGuide for Houses and Energy Star Programs. Whether you are a homeowner, homebuyer, or a homebuilder, our Natural Resources Canada trained and licensed Home Energy Advisors can provide you with an EnerGuide Rating or ENERGY STAR® certification on the home and valuable information on how to make it more energy efficient. Our trained, professional energy advisors follow the standards set by Natural Resources Canada. They’re up-to-date with the most recent energy saving technologies and techniques, and can advise you on how to make you home more efficient. They’ll review all the energy related components of the home and use the most current building science to make sure their recommendations improve the efficiency, comfort and performance of the home.

Find out how you can make your home more energy efficient. Contact AmeriSpec today!

CANADA GREENER HOMES GRANTS
RECEIVE UP TO $5,000 IN GRANTS AND $600 FOR THE COST OF THE ENERGY EVALUATIONS!

Let us help you in 4 easy steps:

1. Register and book your pre-retrofit evaluation on the Greener Homes Grant portal. Be sure to select AmeriSpec of Canada as your Service Organization when completing your application.
2. An AmeriSpec of New Brunswick Energy Advisor will contact you to book your EnerGuide pre-retrofit evaluation and answer any questions you may have, or you can call us at 506-260-3664.
3. Plan, document and complete your home retrofits. After you receive the EnerGuide evaluation from your energy advisor, review the recommendations for your home retrofits. You will need to complete at least one retrofit that is both eligible and recommended by your energy advisor.
4. Book your post-retrofit evaluation and apply for reimbursement. Once you have completed your home retrofits, book your post-retrofit evaluation and submit all your required documents online or by mail.
*The grants include $600 towards the cost of both energy audits.
AmeriSpec will help you qualify for the largest grant available to you – based on the upgrades you’ve chosen to make. That’s a maximum of $5,600 in grants!

Upgrade & Save:

✓ Up to $1,000 on Air Sealing
✓ Up to $5,000 on Exterior Wall Insulation
✓ Up to $1,500 on Basement/Foundation Insulation
✓ Up to $1,800 on Attic/Ceiling Insulation
✓ $350 on Exposed Floor Insulation
✓ Up to $1,300 on Crawlspace Insulation
✓ Up to $5,000 on a Heat Pump
✓ $1,000 on a Domestic Hot Water Heat Pump
✓ Up to $5,000 on Windows & Doors
✓ Up to $500 on Renewable Energy Systems (solar)
✓ Up to $2,625 on Resiliency Measures
✓ $50 on Thermostats

IMPORTANT!

Receipts are required for every upgrade performed and homeowners are responsible for submitting these receipts onto the homeowner portal.

Homeowners are only eligible for grant amounts equal to or less than the amount paid for the upgrade, up to the maximum listed grant amount (i.e. If the air sealing invoice adds up to $200, the maximum grant amount is $200.)

Homeowners should confirm all equipment they are planning to install qualifies for a rebate by consulting with the Greener Homes website.

Let us help you get started today!

Please visit the NRCan website at: https://rb.gy/rrgssy for full retrofit details and to confirm current requirements.

COMMERCIAL BUILDING INSPECTION SERVICES

Helping You Understand Your Business Is Our Business.

An AmeriSpec commercial building inspection will give you the answers you need about your property. A single walk-through is all it takes for our trained commercial property inspectors to survey the building, review appropriate documentation, and conduct interviews, if needed, in order to determine the property’s condition and give you peace of mind you need. The American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) has published a standard guide to performing Property Condition Assessments (PCA). Our inspectors have been trained on the ASTM E2018 standard and use it as a baseline to perform PCAs of commercial buildings. We can work with clients to determine the scope of the inspection depending on their requirements and the age, occupancy, and type of building. This includes anything from performing a general visual examination of the property to a comprehensive inspection of all technical components of the building using a team of specialists. In addition to information and photographs, the AmeriSpec report provides recommendations for remedying major deficiencies, updating ageing major components, and undertaking further detailed investigation, if required, and the timing associated with those recommendations. Depending on the type of inspection chosen, our inspectors can also include in the report approximate costs for items requiring attention in the short, medium, and long term.

AmeriSpec Provides Commercial Property Inspections Of:

  • Office buildings
  • Industrial buildings
  • Retail stores and shopping centres
  • Apartment buildings and hotels
  • Warehouse buildings
  • Condominiums

An AmeriSpec Commercial Property Inspection Can Include:

  • Site characteristics (paving, landscaping and utilities)
  • Structural frame and building envelope
  • Roof surface areas
  • Mechanical and electrical systems
  • Plumbing systems
  • Heating systems
  • Air conditioning and ventilation systems
  • Interior elements
  • Environmental assessments

-Asbestos -Phase 1 assessments -Lead-based paint -Indoor air quality -Infrared thermography

  • Document review
  • Probable cost opinions

Restaurateurs

You’re in the food business, not the maintenance business. AmeriSpec understands that. Our comprehensive commercial inspection can help you take stock of any potential safety issues that may exist in your building. The inspection report will give you a full breakdown of your building components and outline what you’ll need to plan ahead for any future upgrades. Ultimately you get the peace of mind you need, you avoid costly surprises and you can focus on your restaurant.

Storefront Businesses

Your business is everything to you. Why take chances on the condition of your storefront? AmeriSpec can take a closer look for you. We’ll do a walk-through with you to point out any hazards and even share what measures you can take to correct issues. It seems like a simple thing but your customers will appreciate your safe storefront business as much as they love your great products!

An AmeriSpec commercial building inspection can help you protect your business. Book your AmeriSpec commercial inspection today!

BUYER’S HOME INSPECTION SERVICES

Don’t Let The Home Of Your Dreams Become A Nightmare

Buying a home can be an anxious time. You have found the home of your dreams, but are concerned that it may have poor workmanship or problems such as cracks in the foundation, old or deteriorating plumbing, a faulty heating system, or unsafe or dated electrical wiring. It’s because of these possible problems that you should call the professionals at AmeriSpec for a home inspection before buying a house.

No matter how much you know, or think you know, or how many friends and relatives you have in the trades, there’s no substitute for the qualified expertise of a trained AmeriSpec inspector. A trained inspector knows what to look for, what to focus on and how to assess thousands of different elements of the property. Once the thorough pre-buy home inspection is complete a report is produced that will help you secure your investment, help you understand how you home works, eliminate surprise problems, and bring you the peace of mind you are looking for. A good, thorough, comprehensive inspection report will help you make the right decision.

Here’s Why Thousands Of Homebuyers Choose AmeriSpec:
  1. All of our certified New Brunswick home inspectors are thoroughly trained at our in-house AmeriSpec Academy and stay informed via continuing educational programs throughout the year.
  2. Over 16 years of home inspection industry experience.
  3. Error, omissions and general liability insurance that meets or exceeds industry standards.
  4. Detailed and easy-to-understand inspection reports.
  5. Thousands of satisfied customers.
  6. Free consultation on any questions that may arise about your new home… forever.
  7. Get value-added resources contained in your home inspection binder free with every New Brunswick home inspection.
  8. Valuable partner offers.

An AmeriSpec New Brunswick house inspection gives you the peace of mind you need. 
Book your AmeriSpec New Brunswick home inspection today!

SELLER’S HOME INSPECTION SERVICES

Pre-listing home inspection reports available to view for FREE online – anytime, anywhere.

AmeriSpec OnDemand is here to change the way pre-listing home inspections work! AmeriSpec OnDemand is a website offering full AmeriSpec pre-sale home inspection reports. Each home inspection report is free to view, and attached to the official real estate listing with the agent’s website and listing information. If you’re selling your house, or thinking about selling your house, an OnDemand report makes it easier and more efficient for everyone involved in the home selling and home buying process. 

How It Works

  • An AmeriSpec professional home inspector completes a pre-listing inspection of the home and turns it into an official AmeriSpec report.
  • These complete reports are made available online to be viewed by potential homebuyers.
  • A link to the report is made available to the agent to be placed on their website alongside the listing.
Selling Your Home?

If you’re planning on selling your house, getting an AmeriSpec OnDemand pre-listing home inspection report gives you the advantage of having your report posted on the OnDemand website, FREE for anyone to view. In turn, getting you more traffic and potential interest on your listing. AmeriSpec OnDemand can help speed up the process of selling your home by attracting more eligible buyers. The pre-listing report ensures full disclosure at the time of the sale, giving potential buyers more confidence. Getting an inspection and report before listing your home also gives you the chance to fix or make allowance for items that could negatively affect your asking price. This results in more leverage over the price and allows everyone to understand the true condition of your home. The inspection report also ensures that negotiations will be easier, with fewer conditions, and should only have to happen once. No surprises will be found during an inspection after an offer has been made. By getting an AmeriSpec OnDemand pre-listing home inspection, you’ll experience less stress once you begin selling your house, giving your home its best chance to land a higher offer.

BOOK A HOME INSPECTION
Buying A Home?

Get instant, FREE access to New Brunswick home inspection reports for homes all over your community. You can view these reports 24/7, from the comfort of your home. They require no scheduling, no cost and no wait time.

VIEW INSPECTION REPORTS

NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION INSPECTION SERVICES

Why is a New Home Inspection Important?

A new home inspection is your chance to make sure that the work you requested and were promised is complete. You can ascertain what work remains to be done and what work needs to be corrected or redone. Don’t skip this important step in the process. Plan a full tour of your new home in the presence of your contractor and a qualified inspector from AmeriSpec. During this inspection, the contractor must note on the checklist, any item that is not to your satisfaction. Before signing this document, clearly note all the defects that you want to correct, otherwise they will be considered accepted and seen. Your home is often the biggest investment you will ever make. Protect that investment with the help of an AmeriSpec new home inspection.

Get the peace of mind you need before you move in.
Book your AmeriSpec new home construction inspection today!

Asbestos Home Inspection Service

Have Your Home Tested For Asbestos Today

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once commonplace in building material, specifically asbestos insulation. Homes built before 1990 often contain asbestos. While Canada has now banned the use of asbestos, many homes and buildings still have traces. When asbestos fibres are released into the air, they are an immediate health risk to you and your family.

Before you begin any renovations, remodelling or demolition, you should talk to the professionals at AmeriSpec about our asbestos inspection service. Reduce the risk of asbestos exposure by booking an appointment with one of our qualified specialists.

The Three Main Types Of Asbestos

Chrysotile

Also called white asbestos, this is the most common form. Often contaminated with tremolite, it is extremely hazardous. Chrysotile asbestos is commonly found in asphalt, roofing materials and textiles.

Amosite

Referred to as brown asbestos, amosite is commonly used in cement, insulation, tiles and roofing.

Tremolite

Tremolite is responsible for many asbestos-related illnesses with colours ranging from white to dark green. This type of asbestos is commonly found in paint, plumbing materials, insulation and roofing.

The Dangers Of DIY Asbestos Removal

Given the dangers involved, asbestos removal is not a do-it-yourself project. In short, not every home has asbestos. However, if you do come across it, do not try to remove the asbestos yourself. Mishandling it could actually make things worse by allowing fibres to get into the air you breathe. This could potentially result in respiratory issues. Professionals should always remove this harmful substance for you. Therefore, you can maintain a healthy atmosphere in your home.

 

An AmeriSpec asbestos inspection service gives you the peace of mind you need. Book your AmeriSpec asbestos home inspection today!

Canada Greener Homes Grants are now available!

FIND OUT MORE

RADON TESTING SERVICES

Is This Dangerous Gas Lurking In Your Home?

Radon is a gas that occurs naturally outdoors in harmless amounts. It’s produced from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It sometimes gets concentrated in homes built on soil with natural uranium deposits. It can enter buildings through cracks in floors or walls, construction joints, or gaps in foundations around pipes, wires or pumps. Radon levels are usually highest in the basement or crawl space. The presence of radon in the home is a serious risk to the health of you and your family.

When radon gas is breathed into the lungs the person is exposed to small amounts of radiation. This radiation may damage the cells in the lining of the lungs and increase a person’s risk of lung cancer. Exposure to the combination of radon gas and cigarette smoke creates a greater risk for lung cancer than either factor alone.

If you think your home is at risk of contamination contact AmeriSpec for a radon test.

Book an appointment to have an AmeriSpec radon test today.

WETT Inspection (Wood Burning Stoves and Fireplaces)

What is a WETT inspection?

A Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT) inspection is an inspection of a fireplace or a wood burning stove by a WETT certified inspector. WETT Inc is a non-profit training and education association that offer professional trainings and public education to promote the safe and effective use of wood-burning systems in Canada. The association works closely with the government to ensure the most recent and accurate safety standards. A WETT inspection report is provided following an AmeriSpec WETT inspection. It is well documented with pictures and useful recommendations on how you can correct any of the problems that were detected during the inspection.

What does a WETT inspection examine?

It is an inspection of all moveable components of the fireplace, appliance or venting system that are readily accessible (quickly or easily reached) and that does not require the use of special tools for the opening or removal of any panel, door, covering, or system components. Examples of inspected components would be accessible loading doors, primary combustion chamber, ashpan doors, cleanout doors, dampers, air controls… A measuring tape, light, mirror, camera, magnet, or other basic tools can typically be used to perform this level of inspection. A ladder will not be use if the conditions or weather does not allow access to the roof and chimney. In that situation, the evaluation of the chimney is accomplished from the ground.

A WETT inspection evaluates the following factors:

  • Compliance of readily accessible system components, including their proper use, clearances to combustibles, proper support as well as their condition and structural integrity.
  • Compliance of readily accessible shielding, outdoor air components, enclosures, and ductwork, if present.
  • Readily accessible evidence of operating malfunction, which may include but is not limited to smoke spillage.
  • Obstructions and combustible deposits visible through readily accessible cleanout doors or inspection ports.

How to prepare for a WETT inspection?

The main requirement is that the fireplace or wood stove are not currently used (able to touch them without risks of burns). If there is a lot of ashes, removing most of them could help with the inspection of the primary combustion chamber.

To help reduce risks to your home and meet all your insurance requirements, have your fireplaces and wood stoves WETT inspected by an AmeriSpec WETT certified inspector.

RADON TESTING SERVICES

What is Radon?

Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas. It is a by-product of the breakdown of uranium deposits, naturally found in different concentration in the soil and rocks. This gas can infiltrate your homes by finding its way through tiny cracks and holes in the foundation of a home, around pipes, wires, pumps, construction joints, floor drains, etc. It can happen in any type of home, whether it has a basement, a crawlspace, or is built on a slab. It is known that even if any home can be susceptible to high radon concentration, radon is more likely to accumulate in homes that are very well insulated, tightly sealed or located on a rocky terrain.

It is estimated that one in every 15 homes have high levels of radon, with the highest concentration in the basement or on the first floor.

What are the Health Effects of Radon?

The only known health effect from exposure to radon is the increased risk of developing lung cancer.

Health Canada and the American Lung Association agree that long term exposure to elevated levels of radon gas is a significant health risk. When radon gas is breathed into the lungs, they are exposed to small amounts of radiation. This radiation may damage the cells in the lining of the lungs and increase risks of lung cancer.

Exposure to the combination of high radon gas levels and cigarette smoke creates a greater risk of lung cancer than either factor alone (estimated at about 1 out of 3 smokers with an average long-term exposure of at least 800bq/m3 of radon). Radon exposure is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers (average of 1 out of 20 persons at a 800bq/m3 exposure).

How to detect and reduce radon in a home?

Testing your home is the only effective way to find out if you have a radon problem. Radon testing is easy and inexpensive. There are two options for testing a house for radon:

  • A 3 day test done with a continuous radon monitor. This test helps give a summary evaluation of radon levels before buying a home. It helps evaluate if the home could potentially have significantly high radon levels. This test only gives a very short-term evaluation of the situation and should be followed by a long-term test after taking possession of the home for a more complete and accurate evaluation.
  • Long-term radon test kit. This test is recommended to analyze radon levels over a 3 to 12 months period. This test is designed to accurately evaluate the long-term radon exposure of the inhabitants in the home. It can help assess the need for a remediation system. Amerispec do follow the protocol for proper calibration procedures of this type of test, which is usually not done by stores that also offer them. We can send you a kit that you install yourself or also offer the option of installing the test for you to make sure you get reliable and accurate results (following specific instructions).

Test results

If your home has a confirmed long-term average radon level of 200 Bq/m3 or above in a living area, you should install a radon mitigation system. It is recommended that a certified radon mitigation contractor install the system and provide guidance on ways to reduce radon concentrations in your home.

If you are interested in a radon test, do not hesitate to contact us, we will gladly assist you.

POOL INSPECTION SERVICE

Keeping your pool, cool!

A professional pool inspection by AmeriSpec will get your pool summer ready! We’ll perform a visual examination of the pool installation and also check pool equipment including the pool line and electrical supply. The pool inspection will vary depending on your type of pool, heating, pumping, filtering systems, and the type of chemicals you use to keep the water clean and balanced. An inspection also includes checkpoints for safety devices used to prevent accidents as well as pool area landscaping too.

Types of pools

  • Vinyl liners Come in a variety of different shapes and can last 10 to 20 years. These liners are installed above ground or in-ground. They’re the most popular style for residential pools due to the low cost and ease of installation.
  • Fibreglass Often associated with hot tubs but also used in some pools, moulded fibreglass shells are placed in a hole in the ground. Fibreglass panels are also assembled on-site over a concrete base.

Installation considerations:

  • Prior to excavation, soil conditions in the pool installation area should be tested
  • Undisturbed loam provides ideal soil conditions
  • The presence of clay, or sandy or wet soils often creates challenges for excavation
  • A soil engineer can determine the type of soil you have by extracting and analyzing core samples
  • For expensive clay/ sand, or wet soil conditions, special considerations have to be taken during excavation and pool wall support installation

An AmeriSpec pool inspection service gives you the peace of mind you need. Book your AmeriSpec pool inspection today!

INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY OR THERMAL IMAGING

What is Infrared Thermography or Thermal Imaging?

Thermal infrared energy is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that is not visible to the human eye and that we perceive as heat. The measurement device, or infrared camera, makes it possible to measure the amount of infrared radiation being emitted from objects. Any object with a temperature above absolute zero will emit heat. The more heat there is, the more radiation will be emitted. The camera helps quantify the amount of infrared radiation and transpose it into a colour signature, the “thermogram”.

Why Use Thermography in a Home Inspection?

All material in a home has a unique thermal signature. The inspector uses the infrared camera to measure the heat that is emitted by walls, ceilings, foundations, electrical systems, plumbing systems, heating systems and cooling systems. When moisture, heat, cold or wood-destroying organisms are introduced to the structure, the thermal signature changes. A thermal imaging camera can identify problems early, allowing them to be documented and corrected before becoming more serious and more costly to repair.

Interior Scan vs Exterior Scan

Even if a thermographic inspection can be done from either the interior or the exterior of the home, interior scans are more common. Warm air escaping from a building does not always move through the walls in a straight line and what is detected on the outside might originate from some other location on the inside. Also, it is much harder to detect temperature differences on the outside surface of the building during windy weather. Because of this difficulty, interior surveys are generally more accurate because they benefit from reduced air movement.

Infrared Thermography Inspections allow detection of:

  • Damaged or Missing Insulation. Every house has some deficiencies and weakness in terms of heat/cold insulation. Air leaks lead to higher energy consumption and often cause problems with the ventilation system in homes. Air leaks can also lead to condensation. Wet insulation takes a long time to dry, causing a deterioration of the structure and becoming a prime location for mold and fungi growth. The infrared scan DOES NOT detect mold, but under good conditions, will help pinpoint locations where they could be more prone to develop.
  • Active Water Leaks. Those can be more difficult to detect in foundations with finished walls or in attics where the access is more difficult. Active plumbing leakage can also go undetected for a while before being apparent to the eye. Because wet insulation conducts heat faster than dry insulation, the infrared scan can really help detect those situations at a much earlier stage than a basic visual inspection. Keep in mind that dry weather can limit the efficiency at locating active water leaks coming from the outside.
  • Electrical Hot Spots. A poor electrical connection can cause a circuit to overheat. Some defective electrical system components or appliances can also overheat. By detecting problems that are invisible to the naked eye, the problem can be fixed. If left unchecked, electrical problems can cause high temperatures, sparks can fly and might set the surroundings on fire.
  • Conditions of Heating and Cooling Systems. Ventilation and Air-Conditioning systems need to be well maintained. They need to deliver air at the correct humidity and temperature and filter any indoor pollutants. Thermal imaging can help to determine whether HVAC systems are operating properly by taking the temperature at the exit of air ducts. When working incorrectly those systems can cause poor indoor air quality. Thermal imaging can also help detect issues with radiant heating systems and water heating systems by detecting deficiencies in the wires or ducts located in the floors or ceilings, which helps identify the exact location of the defect so that repairs costs can be minimized.
  • Live Vermin or Pest Infestation. Small live animals within walls radiate heat that can easily be detected with thermal imaging.

Preparing for an Infrared Thermography Inspection

To prepare for an interior thermal scan, the homeowner should take steps to ensure accurate results. This may include moving furniture away from exterior walls.

Infrared technology is a good addition to a visual inspection, but it does not negate the need for an experienced inspector with a good knowledge of all the systems and structural components that make up a home.
Have your home inspected by AmeriSpec today.

Water Testing Services

What does a water test consist of?

The quality of your water is very important to you and your family. An AmeriSpec inspection examines your home water supply for contaminants and pollutants, such as chlorine, lead and coliform bacteria. Testing can also reveal an imbalance of the pH level and other factors to ensure that a home’s water is safe for everyday use. The condition of your water quality is often a requirement when obtaining a mortgage.

Impurities may be present when supplies are affected by:

  • Higher levels of nitrates, including fertilizers that leach into groundwater
  • Heavy metal contamination, including lead
  • Dangerous levels of bacteria
  • Mineral contaminants, such as iron and arsenic
  • Fluoride levels

AmeriSpec home inspectors can provide water testing services during a regular home inspection.

Identifying The Problem

Be on the lookout for unusual odours, tastes, colours or stains on clothing or fixtures as these are all warning signs of possible water issues.

Get the clean healthy water your family deserves. Book an appointment today!