AmeriSpec Northern Alberta Home Inspection Services

AmeriSpec Inspection Services | Northern Alberta
Home Inspections You Can Trust

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1-888-310-3383

Whitecourt: 780-778-3383

Grand Prairie:
780-832-0032

About Us

Giving you the peace of mind you need to make the right decision since 1994

AmeriSpec Inspection Services is the Northern Alberta home inspection national brand you can trust. Voted the #1 home inspection company by BobVila™ and Forbes Advisor, we offer more than 35 years of experience and over two million home inspections performed.

We provide industry leading home inspection training to AmeriSpec Northern Alberta home inspectors by combining classroom instruction, in-field home inspections, and hands-on technical training in our cutting-edge facility, led by instructors with over 20 years in the business.
 
If you’re looking to sell a home, AmeriSpec Northern Alberta home inspectors exceed real estate agent, home buyer, first time home buyer and home seller expectations.

AmeriSpec also offers a wide range of in demand specialty Northern Alberta home inspection services.
BOOK OUR SERVICES
Call us Toll Free at 1-888-310-3383.
Whitecourt: 780-778-3383. Grand Prairie: 780-832-0032
We will answer your calls from 7am - 10pm, 7 days a week!

Need a Northern Alberta 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

COMMERCIAL BUILDING INSPECTION SERVICE

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 the peace of mind you need.

Read More


BOOK OUR SERVICES

NEW HOME 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



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INFRARED
THERMOGRAPHY

The infrared camera is used to provide more insight regarding the physical state of a property and can reveal issues in a home that would not be visible to the naked eye.


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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.

Read More


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RADON TESTING
SERVICES

According to Health Canada, long term exposure to radon gas is responsible for over 3000 deaths annually in Canada.


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WETT INSPECTION
(Wood Burning Stoves
and Fireplaces)

Keep Your Home Fires Burning Safely!
A fireplace or wood burning stove makes any room in your house feel warm and cozy. Unfortunately, they can be a serious safety hazard if not meeting code requirements and they can also become a problem when trying to secure insurance.


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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.

Read More


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SEPTIC INSPECTION
SERVICES

It is important for the welfare of your home and family to have a septic system inspection. A septic system receives, treats and disposes of unwanted wastewater and solids from a home’s system. A good maintenance schedule of inspection will ensure your septic system is in good condition.

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Call Toll Free 1-888-310-3383.

Whitecourt: 780-778-3383

Grand Prairie: 780-832-0032

We will answer your calls from 7am – 10pm, 7 days a week!

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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 Northern Alberta Home Inspection Team

Ian Rae
Owner/Operator
Certified Home Inspector

Following a career that provided the Rae’s with an extended national vacation that took them from the prairies to the west coast, then the east coast and back to Alberta; they decided to settle in Whitecourt with their family. Ian and Kathie incorporated their company, Grissol, Griselda & Co. Ltd., in the Province of Alberta in 1994 for the purpose of providing building inspections and related services throughout Northwestern Alberta. This company has operated continuously since the beginning of 1995 and is licensed in the Province of Alberta (License No. 332652).

To keep abreast of trends in the ever-changing construction industry, as well as improve his knowledge of the performance of existing buildings in Alberta, Ian maintains active membership in the Alberta Professional Home Inspectors Society (APHIS), Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI), and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). In addition to providing the basic home inspection, he is able to offer additional services by maintaining certifications to perform WETT Site Basic Inspections, Air Quality and Mould Inspections, Infrared surveys and Radon measurement.

AmeriSpec Home Inspections of Northern Alberta and Whitecourt is committed to providing you with detailed inspection findings and friendly, professional service. Ian will work hard to make certain you receive comprehensive results about the condition of your current, or next potential home.

We also pride ourselves on providing the peace of mind people have come to expect from Canada’s Leading Home Inspection Company.

What Our Customers Are Saying

5/5

“The home inspection was booked quickly and met my tight deadline.
The service was professional, knowledgeable and friendly.
The report was highly useful and filed before my deadline.”

A.P.
5/5

“Very thorough! If there’s a problem, it will be found and documented. Lots of good advice about how to deal with any deficiencies.”

C.G.
5/5

“Great experience! Thorough, detailed and everything explained to us. It wasn’t rushed and we really appreciated the friendly service.
Thanks very much!”

N.F.K.M.M.

Our Northern Alberta
House Inspectors Proudly Serve….

AmeriSpec Northern Alberta home inspection services provide residential home inspections, commercial building inspections and related ancillary services in the following areas:

  • Whitecourt
  • Alberta Beach
  • Barrhead
  • Beaverlodge
  • Breton
  • Calahoo
  • Calmar
  • Carvel
  • Cherhill
  • Dapp
  • Darwell
  • Devon
  • Drayton Valley
  • Edmonton
  • Edson
  • Entwistle
  • Evansburg
  • Fox Creek
  • Gainford
  • Genesee
  • Glenevis
  • Grande Prairie
  • Grande Prairie County
  • Gunn
  • High Level
  • High Prairie
  • Hinton
  • Jasper
  • Lac Ste. Anne
  • Lake Isle
  • Lindale
  • Manning
  • Mayerthorpe
  • McLennan
  • Niton
  • Junction
  • Onoway
  • Robb
  • Sangudo
  • Seba Beach
  • Slave Lake
  • Smith
  • Spruce Grove
  • St. Albert
  • Stony Plain
  • Swan Hills
  • Thorsby
  • Valleyview
  • Wabamun
  • Wabasca
  • Warburg
  • Wembly
  • Westlock
  • Wildwood

Have a question? We’re available from 7am – 10pm, 7 days a week.
Call Toll Free 1-888-310-3383, Whitecourt 780-778-3383, Grand Prairie 780-832-0032.

Our Partners

The Brick

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AmeriSpec is proud to have partnered with The Brick to give our customers a very special offer. AmeriSpec customers will now be able to furnish and decorate their homes for less, by taking advantage of special company prices on The Brick’s large selection of home appliances and decorating items.
erenovate-logo

eRenovate

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AmeriSpec is proud to have partnered with eRenovate; an app that connects you with verified reliable and trustworthy home improvement professionals. The eRenovate guarantee; a $25,000 deposit protection and a 90-day workmanship warranty, provides homeowners with unprecedented value and peace of mind.

Professional Property Inspections.
View Our Resources

AmeriSpec of  Northern Alberta 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 Northern Alberta
P.O. Box 1424
Whitecourt, AB T7S 1P3

 

Telephone: 1-888-310-3383
Whitecourt: 780-778-3383
Grand Prairie: 780-832-0032
Email: [email protected]

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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!

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!

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!

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 Northern Alberta 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

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 Northern Alberta home inspectors are thoroughly trained at our in-house AmeriSpec Academy and stay informed via continuing educational programs throughout the year.
  2. Over 27 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 Northern Alberta home inspection.
  8. Valuable partner offers.

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

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!

NEW HOME 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 inspection today!

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.

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.

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.
AmeriSpec is here to offer you high quality services.

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!

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!

Septic Inspection

AmeriSpec Septic Inspections You Can Rely On.

It is important for the welfare of your home and family to have a septic system inspection. A septic system receives, treats and disposes of unwanted wastewater and solids from a home’s system. A good maintenance schedule of inspection will ensure your septic system is in good condition.

An unchecked septic system can lead to problems. By having a trained professional from AmeriSpec check your septic system, you’ll know whether you have any problems. Whether you need a minor repair or a replacement or a major overhaul of your system, our straightforward assessment will outline your problems and issues if any exist, and let you know all your options so you can make the right decision.

It’s time to check your septic system. Book your AmeriSpec septic system inspection today!