Take a look at Criterium-Pioli Engineers 100+ Questions Before Buying Your Home. ince 1973, Criterium-Pioli Engineers have provided our clients with the most complete home inspection services available. The systems established by Criterium Engineers in 1957 have continually set the standard for quality home inspections. For a free sample report, e-mail us or call. Unlike other home inspection services, all Criterium inspections are conducted by licensed Professional Engineers. In Washington State, only licensed Professional Engineers can legally comment on the structural integrity of a building. As a result, Criterium can provide you with a level of accountability and professionalism that sets us apart in the inspection industry. Additionally, in Washington State there is no registration or licensing for home or building inspectors. Therefore, anyone with or without experience or an advanced education can become a home inspector. All our inspections are conducted by experienced engineers with: Technical Degrees Rigorous Qualifications Exams Professional Registration Continuing Education Requirements Peer Reviews Error and Omissions Insurance The following is a summary of the typical projects that we perform. Residential Services Standard Home Inspection Criterium Engineers Standard Home Inspection is a limited visual inspection designed to identify significant deficiencies and/or repairs needed in the major systems of a home (structural, heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, roof, exterior) and to provide a general understanding of the property's current condition. We investigate the following areas during our Standard Home Inspection: Structure Wood-Destroying Insect Activity Basement Water Ventilation Heating Energy Efficiency Plumbing Electrical Interior Exterior Roofing Life and Fire Safety Pool and Spa Exhaustive Home Inspection This includes a Standard Inspection plus invasive testing and/or equipment disassembly (as approved in advance by you and the property owner). The purpose is to gather all available and relevant information about the property. This more extensive inspection goes beyond the available visible evidence and provides an even more thorough analysis. Structural Inspection This includes an inspection and evaluation of the structural components of the home, including the condition of the foundation and the framing. Activities such as probing with an awl, measuring framing members, and limited excavation around the foundation. The determination of squareness, level, and plumb may be included in such an evaluation. The most frequent use of this type of inspection is the investigation of distress in a structure. For example, the investigation of cracks in the foundation wall is a common scope of work. Roof Inspection It includes an on-site evaluation of the home's roof system including surface, framing, penetrations, appurtenances, and structural support, performed by either going directly on the roof or with binoculars when the roof is not accessible. Trouble Shooting and Diagnostics These are assignments to diagnose specific problems; why is something happening and what should be done to correct it. Inspections are objective, free of any interest in the methods used or construction costs to correct the problem. The results are practical. Criterium Engineers will tell you when a perceived problem is something that is typical or when repairs are needed. Repair Design It includes an engineering design to repair structural deficiencies in the foundation or framing. A design, signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer, is usually required before repairs can be made. New Construction Inspection It includes an on-site evaluation of a newly constructed home. Similar to a pre-purchase inspection, a new construction inspection may include a list of defects to be corrected by the builder prior to occupancy or ownership. Progress Inspections They include regular inspections during the construction of your new home. Inspections set at predetermined stages of construction are the best way to ensure quality throughout the construction process. Insurance Claims Inspection This is an on-site evaluation of damage to a home due to conditions that may be covered by insurance (such as storms or fires). The report often states the probable cause of the damage, the severity of the damage, and any recommendations for its cure. Property Condition Assessments Criterium Engineers' reports contain information about a structure and its components vital to investment and finance decision making. The Property Condition Assessment Report provides appropriate due diligence for a real estate transaction. Our reports comply with industry standards such as ASTM. Our standard report goes beyond these basic requirements by providing additional commentary about the operation of the building and its systems. We have also created customized or abbreviated reports and formats for special needs or very large and time-sensitive assignments. Condominium Reserve Studies The Criterium Engineers Reserve Study combines an engineering review of building components with a financial analysis to determine what must be set aside on a periodic basis in a capital reserve fund. In our analysis, we employ software developed exclusively for Criterium Engineers by KPMG Peat Marwick. Condominium associations and other Common Interest Realty Groups will appreciate Criterium Engineers comprehensive approach to reserve studies. If your reserve is under-funded, we will develop practical alternatives that combine common sense engineering and "Big Five" accounting expertise. If your property has known problems, or if we uncover them, we are available locally to develop repair designs, bid packages, and manage construction. If you have never had a reserve study, you will have peace of mind knowing that a reliable analysis has been performed. The software provides Common Interest Realty Groups with an analysis of their current capital reserves, future requirements, and various funding options for ensuring the viability and health of the capital reserve fund. The standard Reserve Study consists of 4 elements: Component Inventory Condition Assessment and Valuation Fund Status Funding Plan We understand and comply with state and industry standards and AICPA requirements. We also understand the often politically sensitive nature of Common Interest Realty Groups. We have proven our ability to work effectively with owners, boards and managers. All Criterium building inspection services are performed in accordance with the Standards of Practice of the National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers(NABIE). NABIE is a chartered affinity group of the National Society of Professional Engineers. NABIE strives to protect the general public, the integrity of the building inspection industry, establish the highest standards and to verify the qualifications of individuals offering these services