Straight answers

It depends on the size of the property and the type of inspection. Tell us where it is and roughly how big it is, and we will give you a firm price — not a range, and not a price that changes when we arrive.

Often within a day or two, depending on where the property is. If you are working to an inspection clause deadline, say so when you phone. We will tell you honestly whether we can make it in time rather than take the booking and let you down.

Most houses take two to four hours. Larger properties, or ones with outbuildings and flatlets, take longer. We do not rush it, and we do not charge by the hour.

Usually within 24 to 36 hours of the inspection, as a PDF with photographs.

You are welcome to be, and many people find it useful — you can see the problem rather than read about it. It is not necessary though. The report will cover everything either way.

No. It is a visual inspection of what is reasonably and safely accessible. We do not open up walls, lift tiles, cut into ceilings or move the owner’s belongings. Where we could not see something, the report says so and says why.

No, and you should be wary of an inspector who does. We tell you what condition the property is in. What that is worth to you, and what you do about it, is your decision.

People do, often successfully. The report is factual, photographed and dated, which is what makes it useful in a negotiation. We do not get involved in the negotiation itself.

A bank valuation establishes what the property is worth as security for a loan. It is not a condition survey and the valuer is not looking for defects. The two answer completely different questions.

No. Those must be issued by a registered electrician or a registered gas practitioner. We will flag anything that looks wrong so you know to get it checked, but we cannot certify it.

Not quite. The inspection finds the growth and the water feeding it. The sampling — air plates and surface swabs — goes to an independent laboratory and gives you counts. Most mould inspections include both, because a count without a cause does not help you fix anything.

No. We can tell you what is growing and where the water is coming from. Health questions belong with a doctor, and if someone in the house is unwell you should see one regardless of what our report says.

We work across the whole Western Cape, from the Atlantic Seaboard to Beaufort West. If your town is not on our areas page, phone and ask — we probably still come there.

Yes, and there is no charge for it and no time limit. A report you do not understand is not much use, so phone whenever something in it is unclear.