Questions
Frequently asked questions.
The things people ask us most, answered plainly. Anything not covered here, call the office — we would rather explain it now than have you guess.
Booking & payment
Getting it scheduled.
Scheduling, signing and paying all happen by email, so you do not need to be at the property — or even in the state.
How do I sign the inspection agreement if I will not be there?
We email you a link to our standard agreement, which you can read and sign online with a mouse — or a finger, on a phone or tablet. It has to be signed before the inspection can go ahead.
How do I pay if I am not present?
After the inspection is scheduled you get a confirmation email with a link to our secure online card payment system. You can also call the office and pay ahead by card — we take all major cards — or pay from the link we send when the report is ready.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes. Cancelling less than 24 hours before the inspection carries a $150 fee, which we pay to the inspector whose day was already committed to you.
How long should I plan to be there?
A typical property inspection takes two to three hours.
Do the utilities have to be on?
Not necessarily — but the inspection may be limited by whatever is switched off, and the report will say so. We can also supply and power the house up on request.
Can Big Moose turn the utilities on?
Yes. Our inspectors carry portable propane tanks and generators and can power up the house and its appliances for the inspection. That works particularly well for foreclosures and vacant properties.
Do you offer a re-inspection?
Yes, at a minimal fee. We recommend hiring a licensed contractor to carry out any repairs the original inspection turned up, and then we come back to confirm the work.
Can your inspectors estimate repair costs?
No. Our code of ethics forbids our inspectors from performing repairs or estimating what repairs will cost. That keeps the inspection honest — an inspector who can profit from what he finds has a reason to find it.
On the day
What actually happens.
What we can and cannot do on site — including the one thing we will never do, and why that is deliberate.
Services & cover
What is included, what is extra.
Mold and radon are add-ons rather than part of a standard inspection. We will tell you straight whether your property needs them.
Is mold testing part of a general home inspection?
No. Mold testing is a separate service you can add to your inspection. Tell us about the property and we will say plainly whether it is worth doing.
Do you check for radon?
Yes, as an add-on. Radon is present throughout the Midwest and elevated in certain areas, so we recommend a radon test with every property inspection. Arrange it when you book.
Are you insured?
Yes — we carry both Errors & Omissions and General Liability insurance.
Where is your office?
Our scheduling office is in Bessemer, Michigan, on the Upper Peninsula — chosen because it is central to the territory we cover. When you call about an inspection you reach that small office, not a call centre.
Still not sure?
Ask us. It costs nothing.
Call the Bessemer office Mon–Fri 8am–6pm or Sat 9am–2pm, and we will scope the right inspection for your property.