Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Where do you work?
I cover all of Los Angeles County—LA City, San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, and the surrounding areas.
Are you insured?
Yes. I carry full professional liability and general liability coverage for inspection services. Just to be clear, my insurance covers the inspection work I do—not repairs or work done by contractors.
Can you tell me if my property is up to code?
Not exactly. I’ll identify issues I can see and point out habitability concerns, but I don’t provide official code compliance certifications or legal code interpretations.
What kinds of inspections do you do?
I handle a range of inspections, including:
- Apartment and multifamily properties
- Rental habitability prep (RHHP)
- SB-721 balcony and elevated element inspections (working with a licensed contractor)
- Pre-sale inspections
- General habitability assessments
- ADU reviews
- Single-family homes
If you need something specific, just ask—I’m happy to customize the scope for your property.
What makes your inspections different?
My background in architecture and property compliance gives me a better eye for building systems and habitability issues. I focus on clear communication, detailed reports, and practical recommendations—so you know what to fix and why. No jargon, no confusion. Just fast, reliable, actionable inspections.
What do you need from me before the inspection?
To make things go smoothly, please provide:
- Access instructions or an on-site contact
- Any known issues or recent repairs
- HOA or management rules (if applicable)
- Parking or gate codes
- Unit list for multifamily properties
- Any safety concerns I should know about
What do you need from me before the inspection?
To make things go smoothly, please provide:
- Access instructions or an on-site contact
- Any known issues or recent repairs
- HOA or management rules (if applicable)
- Parking or gate codes
- Unit list for multifamily properties
- Any safety concerns I should know about
Before the Inspection
What do you need from me before the inspection?
To make things go smoothly, please provide:
- Access instructions or an on-site contact
- Any known issues or recent repairs
- HOA or management rules (if applicable)
- Parking or gate codes
- Unit list for multifamily properties
- Any safety concerns I should know about
Do I need to provide unit access?
Yes. For apartment and multifamily inspections, please make sure tenants are notified in advance and access is arranged. If I can’t get into certain units during the scheduled time, I can come back later for a reinspection at a reduced rate.
Do you open walls or dismantle anything?
No. I don’t do destructive or invasive inspection methods. I won’t cut into walls, remove siding, open unsafe electrical panels, or take apart appliances. I inspect what’s visible and safely accessible.
Apartment & Multifamily Properties
What's covered in an apartment inspection?
I’ll check the building exterior, walkways, stairs, railings, lighting, drainage, and common areas like laundry rooms and parking. Inside the units (if I can get in), I look at kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, electrical outlets, GFCI protection, heating, smoke and CO alarms, windows, doors, and any signs of water damage or deterioration.
Do you inspect every unit?
I can. For larger properties, we might sample a portion of the units depending on what makes sense for your situation.
What about common areas?
Yep—walkways, stairwells, shared facilities, and exterior elements are all part of the inspection.
Do you work with property managers and management companies?
Yes. I work with property managers regularly who need reliable, straightforward inspections to keep properties compliant and tenants safe. I can coordinate access, provide multi-unit reports, and schedule recurring property reviews.
RHHP Prep Inspections
What's an RHHP preparation inspection?
It’s a private walkthrough I do before the County comes out. I’ll flag habitability issues so you can fix them ahead of time and avoid surprises during the official inspection.
What are you looking for?
The usual suspects: working smoke and CO detectors, leaks, mold, functioning windows and locks, damaged walls or floors, missing GFCIs, broken fixtures, heating issues, security problems, pest entry points, trip hazards—anything that could raise a red flag.
Does this guarantee I'll pass the County inspection?
No guarantees. The County inspector makes the final call. But this definitely helps you get ahead of problems and prioritize what needs fixing.
Will you deal with the County for me?
No, I don’t communicate with LA County on your behalf. I just give you a detailed report you can use to get ready.
SB-721 Balcony Inspections
Can you do official SB-721 inspections?
Yes. I work with a licensed contractor who’s qualified under SB-721 to perform and sign off on these inspections. I help with the walkthrough, photos, and paperwork to make the whole process smooth.
What does the inspection cover?
We look at balconies, decks, elevated walkways, stairs—any exterior elevated elements. That includes checking for waterproofing issues, wood rot, cracks, movement, guardrail problems, drainage issues, and structural concerns. You’ll get a full report with photos and repair recommendations.
How often do I need this done?
Every six years, per California law.
Home Inspections
Do you inspect single-family homes and condos?
Yes. For condos, I’ll inspect your unit and the common areas leading to it—hallways, stairs, entry points, that kind of thing.
What about attics, crawlspaces, and roofs?
If they’re accessible and safe, yes. For roofs, I’ll inspect from the ground or use a drone when it makes sense.
Repairs & Follow-Up
Can you estimate repair costs?
No, I just identify the issues. You’ll need to get quotes from licensed contractors.
Do you come back after repairs?
Absolutely. Re-inspections are available at a reduced rate.
Reports & Scheduling
When will I get my report?
Usually within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the property size.
When do I pay?
Payment’s due at the time of inspection unless we’ve agreed otherwise in writing.
Can you come out today?
Sometimes—depends on my schedule. Just reach out and we’ll see what we can do.
What I Don't Do
Do you test for mold, asbestos, or lead?
Not as part of a standard inspection, but I can refer you to certified testing services.
Will you move furniture or appliances?
Nope. I inspect what’s visible and accessible.
Do you guarantee anything?
No. The inspection is a snapshot of the property’s condition on the day I’m there. Things can change.