Our Services

Mold Inspections and Mold Testing are critical if you believe you have a mold problem. Mold is everywhere in nature and can enter your home as it moves freely on air. Mold typically becomes a problem when the air or physical components of the home are damp for extended periods.

At Top Down Home Inspections, we conduct thorough visual inspections, using  moisture meters to detect hidden issues. If mold is found, we recommend lab analysis to identify the type and recommend remediation.

Septic Inspections are essential yet often overlooked, despite their importance due to the high costs associated with failures. Septic systems, typically found in rural areas, manage wastewater and require regular maintenance to function properly.
Signs that your septic system may be failing include slow drains, sewage backups, pooling sewage in the yard, and unpleasant odors. Repairing or replacing a septic system can be costly, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, and these costs are often not covered by insurance.At Top Down Home Inspections, we provide visual inspections to help you avoid these issues. In real estate transactions, sellers often pump the septic tank before inspection, so any available records of past maintenance can be very helpful. It is important to ensure your septic system is in good condition and avoid unexpected expenses.

Well Inspections and Water Quality Testing are crucial for properties with private water systems. Unlike public water systems, which provide treated water, well systems are privately managed and require careful evaluation.
When purchasing a property with a well, most municipalities require a Water Quality Test to ensure it meets health standards set by the county health department. This test typically checks for bacteria such as E. coli, coliform, nitrites, and nitrates, but does not cover all potential contaminants or the well system itself.At Top Down Home Inspections, we visually examine the well head, tank, and components for signs of failure, damage, or poor installation. We also test water pressure and flow rates to ensure the system meets performance standards. A more comprehensive evaluation can be arranged with a well contractor.

Termites can cause significant damage, with a colony of 60,000 eating the equivalent of 12 inches of a 2×4 in six months. Subterranean termite colonies, which can have up to 2 million members, are particularly destructive, damaging wood, wallpaper, plastics, and fabrics.
Most mortgage companies and the FHA and VA require a termite inspection, documented on form NPMA-33. At Top Down Home Inspections, we understand the importance of these inspections, as termite damage can render homes structurally unsafe and lead to costly repairs.

On many homes the chimney is a major penetration through the roof for the fireplace or furnace/water heater ventilation.  We inspect the cap, crown, bricks and mortar for condition and service.  The attic is also inspected around the chimney for previous water damage.  It is important to have a solid chimney system that is also flashed and sealed against water intrusion.  Poor conditions may require further evaluation by a qualified chimney contractor to provide a repair estimate.

Radon testing is essential for detecting radon gas, a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that emanates from the earth and can accumulate in homes, particularly in areas with porous sedimentary rocks. In places like SW Michigan, where glacial deposits are common, radon can easily enter homes and become trapped, posing serious health risks.
At Top Down Home Inspections, we conduct thorough radon testing to ensure your home is safe. The EPA considers radon levels above 4.0 pCi/L to be a major health concern, and we are committed to identifying and addressing any radon issues in your home to protect your health and safety.