CLERKIN HOME INSPECTIONS LLC / HOUSEMASTER

Our home inspection contained a significant error and when we complained, we were treated very rudely. Details below: We hired a Clerkin/HouseMaster home inspector during the process of buying our house. The inspector made an error and stated that we had a dryer vent that vented to our garage and recommended that we fix it to comply with code. This was actually the intake to the fireplace, not a dryer vent. We hired a contractor to fix this issue, and the contractor performed the work. However, at the end of the work he discovered that it was not a dryer vent. The contractor took partial responsibility for his error, as both he, the inspector, and I each bore some responsibility. However, when I called Clerkin/HouseMaster to complain about their original mistake, they refused to take any responsibility and behaved in a highly unprofessional manner. Furthermore, they attempted to gaslight me by stating that the inspector only said that the vent "appeared" to be a dryer vent, when the inspection report clearly says it is a dryer vent. I highly recommend that people find an inspection company with higher standards and more professionalism. Note that this 1-star review is not for the inspection itself as everyone makes mistakes. Based on the inspection alone, 2 or 3 stars is probably fair. However, because of their highly unprofessional behavior in responding to my complaint they get 1 star.

Initially all seemed well. Was told that "fair"was a usual grade and meant something might need to be replaced in a few years (he later recanted this). Missed several problems and did plenty of verbal downgrading in terms of what really needed to be done. Said the roof just needed patching- the insurance company and 3 roofers stated it actually needed to be replaced. Verbally abusive when I called to discuss and told me " äll roofers want to replace the roof"- among other comments.

Patrick arrived on time (early in fact!) and involved my husband and I in the entire home inspection process. He kept us informed of findings as the inspection progressed. This was greatly appreciated, as it is a very old house and hence there was lots to discuss. He was thorough and patient and seemed happy to discuss any areas of concern in detail, and also to answer our many questions. Overall, we think he conducted a very thorough inspection and was a pleasure to deal with. I would recommend him.

before i even moved in, i had a plumber come out to install a water softener. he found the hot water heater needed replaced. the day we moved in 2/2/2013, we found the refrigerator ice maker was leaking. less than 30 days later, the shower doors fell off. i contacted housemaster and had to deal with dianne clerkin. she told me the plumber was unscrupulous and i did not have her husband come out to recheck the hot water heater so it was not covered. she then told me the ice maker was not inspected since the inspection does not cover appliances. and the shower doors were not covered becuase they are "high use" items. she was very rude and made no effort to even discuss my concerns. my realtor who had recommended this inspector since we did not know the area actually riembursed me to purchase home warranty insurance since the inspection was so inadequate.

I had an excellent experience with Patrick Clerkin. He was very professional and thorough. This is my first home, and he took the time to explain basic elements of home upkeep and repair. Mr. Clerkin was thoughtful and patient, helping me work through hypotheticals and potential costs. Mr. Clerkin sent the report immediately after the inspection, giving me ample time to review it before I needed to respond to the seller. He also agreed to speak on the phone and go over all aspects of the inspection with my cobuyer on the property, who could not attend. I thought that the termite inspection was a little cursory, and maybe not worth the extra money. But then again, I bought a little extra peace of mind. I did not decide to buy this home, due to safety issues with the wiring and some other problems. However, I will use Patrick again as I continue the search for a home.

During my initial inspection search, I chose this company due to my conversation with Dianne. I was pleased with their customer service and friendly approach and the fact that they delivered the inspection report the day of! Which was the reason why we chose them since we were on a very aggressive timeline. The inspection itself was fair. Patrick was informative and showed us what was worth to fix ourselves and what needed to be replaced. However, we did not receive the inspection report as expected. Patrick told us we'd receive it the next day but when the next day came, it was not sent. After several attempts, we received it 2 days after the inspection. Also we had to follow up with the company to obtain the termite report as well. Patrick also told us to reach out to him with any questions after the inspection and after several attempts via email and phone calls to inquire about several things, he never returned my calls or emails. Overall it was not worth the $600 as there were other companies charging much less and would have delivered the same service.

Patrick Clerkin, the owner, was already at the house checking things when we arrived. He explained any issues and potential problems as we went through the house with him. He pointed out items that were not currently a problem, but could become one in the future, and to keep an eye on them. He even explained standard maintenance such as bleeding radiators in the Fall, and keeping gutters and downspouts clear. The inspection lasted about 3-1/2 hours and in that time we had investigated every nook and cranny of the house. Pat was patient and professional in his explanations. He was well-worth the money for providing me with peace-of-mind about the old house I was buying.

The inspector was prompt, professional and thorough. Upon completion of the inspection, he went over every element of the inspection report with me and explained each in detail. In addition, the inspector provided us with some standard cost estimates and a home repair CD which allowed us to do some repair ourselves that we might not have otherwise attempted. The cost was a bit more but well worth it considering the age and condition of the home.

Their team was very thorough and knowledgeable. Flexible for my scheduling and punctual, too.