FAQ - ThermoPhoto Inc.

find items that are not performing correctly or items that are unsafe. If a problem or a symptom of a problem is found the have inspector will include a description and a digital photograph of the problem in a written report and may recommend further evaluation.

Q: When do I call a home inspector?

A: Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Q: Why do I need a Home Inspection?

A: A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house you are interested in before you buy. That way you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. Our inspection report will identify any problem areas and also provide advice about what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. A professional inspection will give you a clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. A home inspection can save home buyers money and provide peace of mind.

Q: Why can’t I do the inspection myself?

A: You can, but it is not advised. Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional have inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Thermophoto gives you an added advantage as a home buyer with its state-of-the-art infrared thermography technology which allows us to see what lies beneath the surface. We can see what others cannot see.

Q: What qualifications and experience does a ThermoPhoto Inc. Building Inspections inspector bring to an inspection?

A: Our lead residential inspector has extensive experience in residential construction, which gives him a unique advantage when evaluating a have and its components. He is also highly trained and has performed hundreds of home inspections. He is:

*Certified by the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI)
* Certified by the American Society of Non-destructive Testing
* Certified by the Infrared Training Centre and Trained in thermography
* Insured, Educated, and Experienced.

Q: What does a home inspection include?

A: A home inspector’s report will review the condition of the home’s heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure. Additional services not included in a typical home inspection, such as, mold, radon and water analysis, may be obtained as optional (EPA and other) testing services.

Q: Do I have to be there?

A: While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

Q: How long will a home inspection take?

A: Typically, a complete home inspection on a single-family residence takes about two to three hours maybe even longer depending on condition of the home. These times may vary depending on the size, age and condition of the home. We also allow for time to go over the findings after the inspection.

Q: What if the report reveals a problem?

A: All homes (even new construction) have problems. Every problem has a solution. Solutions vary from a simple fix of the component to adjusting the purchase price but having a home inspection allows the problem to be addressed before the sale closes.

Q: What does an inspection cost?

A: We determine our inspection fees based on several criteria, such as the square footage of the home, age, presence of detached structures, and other unique and distinguishing features of a property. Therefore, a description of the property is required before an exact quotation can be provided. With that said, the fee for an average up to 2500sf home built within the last 50 years, with no detached structures, is $450 + HST including a thermography mapping of key areas of the property.

ThermoPhoto Inc. Clean Home Treatment FAQ’S

How safe is ozone?

Ozone is very safe and environmentally friendly. It is non-combustible, non-carcinogenic, and non-irritating to skin. This is good news to people who clean up excessive amounts of mold using harsh chemicals and detergents. The ozone produced with ThermoPhoto Inc. Clean Home Treatment’ Ozone Generators will not damage home furnishings in any way and will not leave a residue on walls or furnishings. Ozone does not harm foods and is actually approved by the FDA as a food preservative because of its ability to kill bacteria and molds.

That being said, it is still absolutely necessary that no people, pets, or even some plants be left in a home or building where our ozone generators are in use. This is because the generators convert oxygen to ozone, and, of course, people and pets need oxygen to live.

When the generator is turned off the ozone reverts back to oxygen in a short time and the air quality in the space is sanitized, fresh, and ready for occupancy.

What is ozone gas?

Ozone is colorless and has a distinct odor, much like the smell after a thundershower. This odor will intensify as the home or office fills with ozone and diminishes rapidly after the ozone generators are turned off. The odor is not at all offensive and is usually completely gone within a day.

How does the ozone get behind the walls?

As the generators continue to produce ozone, it forms a colorless “cloud” throughout the space. Over time, it filters through all porous surfaces, and through vents and spaces to go everywhere there is oxygen present. After several hours the ozone will even find its way behind walls and into all the “hidden” spaces in a home or commercial building. Essentially, if there is air present, the ozone will follow it.

What happens to the mold after the ThermoPhoto Inc. Clean Home Treatment Ozone generator has killed it?

Nothing. It just lays there, dead, until it’s dealt with in some way. If it is not visible, there is no reason to do anything with it. It won’t come back to life. If the mold is visible, it is very easily cleaned up with the proper vacuuming or by wiping it away. This is a simple and safe procedure, not at all like the process of removing living mold.

What about furniture, carpets, and drapes that have been affected by mold?

In most cases, using our ThermoPhoto Inc. Clean Home Treatment will allow you to save your furnishings because the ozone will penetrate the air spaces in cushions and fabrics and kill all the mold and bacteria present. Often a thorough cleaning can then remove any stains that were present. An added bonus is that all the cushions in the home or office, including pillows and mattresses, will also be free of dust mites as well!