From the Experts: Capitol Home Inspections
I'm kicking off a new series I like to call "From the Experts." During your home purchase or sale, you'll come into contact with many experts in the real estate field. To help you feel more confident at selecting your home partners I wanted to give you a chance to hear directly from them. First on our list of experts is Jenn McMurdy with Capitol Home Inspections. The home inspector is who you hire as the buyer after you go under contract to come review the home you are purchasing from top to bottom. Jenn McMurdy and her husband Ray have been in the business of inspecting home since 2004. You can trust that they are an expert in their field and here to help you.
Q+A
1. What is your primary role in a home purchase?
A home inspector's role in the home purchase is to provide peace of mind by inspecting the home and reporting on any major structural, mechanical or safety issues. We inspect the home and provide a detailed report, along with pictures and video to explain our findings. We also conduct radon testing to ensure levels of radon are safe in your home.
2. Why is your service/role necessary?
Whether purchasing new construction or an existing home, it is important to be aware of what you are purchasing and the current condition of all major systems in the home. Once you sign for purchase, the home, along with any existing issues, become your responsibility.
3. Is your service paid for upfront or is it covered in my closing costs?
A home inspection is paid upfront at the time of the inspection, which typically takes place up to 14 days after ratifying your contract. We take payment by cash, check or you can pay by credit or debit online.
4. Is your service a recurring fee every year once I purchase a home?
Most buyers will have a home inspection conducted when they initially purchase a home and then often before listing their home for sale. Home Inspections do not need to be conducted annually, however, if you have delayed maintenance items or neglected issues after being in a home for a while, it is always a good idea to have a basic home maintenance inspection to see where you stand.
5. What should I know about your particular industry?
Home Inspectors are required to hold a license in the state of Virginia so you should always check with DPOR to make sure the inspector you plan to work with is licensed with no issues. All inspectors have different certifications, memberships in professional organizations and levels of experience. These are good questions to ask when hiring!
6. If I were to compare you to another service provider, what would you say your standout qualities are?
Hands down, our customer service AND expertise! After working with us, we want you to feel like you have had a WOW experience! What makes us unique is that ALL of our inspectors not only hold basic licensure, but are also Certified ASHI Members, hold their NRS Certification (to inspect brand new homes) and are NRSB Certified for radon testing, among many other qualifications. Our training program is like no other in the Richmond area. After working with us, you will truly feel like you have someone in your corner.
7. If I choose to work with you would I be working directly with you or someone else in your company?
It depends! Myself and my husband, Ray McMurdy, own the company and still actively work in our business everyday. We also have an AMAZING team that works to take care of you both before and after the inspection, along with a team of inspectors. We try to get enough information about you and your needs before your inspection to make the right match with an inspector that will be the best fit. No matter who you work with, you will get the full CHI experience and will become one of our raving fans!
Thanks for sharing that info, Jenn! If you have more questions about home inspections, you can reach out to Jenn or the Capitol Home Inspections team at 804.639.1171 or