Thermal Imaging
One of the things that sets The Real Estate Inspection Company apart from other inspection companies is our use of state-of-the-art equipment including FLIR® infrared thermal cameras. During a seller or home-buyer inspection, we’re able to detect thermal energy that can point out a number of potential problems that otherwise would be missed. Contact us at (800) 232-5180. We serve San Diego area and beyond.
How Does Thermal Imaging Work?
Thermography is the use of an infrared imaging and measurement camera to “see” and “measure” thermal energy emitted from an object. It is not a moisture meter and does not “see” moisture. Thermal scanning helps the inspector detect temperature differences and anomalies that can be caused by moisture. When two areas composed of the same or similar materials experience changing ambient temperatures, the area with the higher thermal mass (usually moisture) will change temperature more slowly.
Our Process
Evaluating a home with a thermal imaging camera is a simple process, but one that most home inspectors don’t do because of the expense. Cameras are pricey, ranging from $6,000 to $24,000. Here’s our process:- The first thing we do is let the water run through the drains of the toilets, sinks, showers, and dishwasher.
- Depending on the ambient conditions at the house at the time of inspection, we may run hot or cold water. If the house is cold, hot water will show up better than cold water.
- We may then use the HVAC system to help change the temperatures in the house.
- The dry areas with less thermal mass will change temperature quickly. Areas with a higher thermal mass, which may include damp areas, will change temperature more slowly. These differences will be obvious when viewed through the infrared camera.
It is important to restate that infrared cameras do not see through walls, cabinets, or concrete. Rather, they show differences in the surface temperature of a material. It is these temperature differences that may indicate moisture or another anomaly such as missing insulation.
Our inspections tell the story of your house.
Infrared Technology at Work
Protect Your Commercial Property with Thermal Imaging from The Real Estate Inspection Company
Did you know 90% of fires in commercial buildings stem from electrical systems? At The Real Estate Inspection Company, we help you stay ahead of the risk with NFPA 70B-compliant thermal imaging inspections for your electrical panels. Our advanced technology detects hidden issues like hot spots and overloaded circuits before they spark disaster—ensuring safety, reducing fire hazards, and protecting lives and property. By following NFPA 70B’s proven maintenance standards, you’ll not only meet industry best practices and insurance requirements but also save money by preventing costly repairs, extending equipment life, and minimizing downtime. Plus, our detailed reports offer liability protection and peace of mind. Don’t let a small oversight become a big problem—contact us today at 760-385-2295 to schedule your inspection and keep your property safe, compliant, and efficient.
Other Inspection Services
In addition to thermal imaging, The Real Estate Inspection Company offers several more inspection services that protect and inform our clients:
Certified Home Inspectors
When evaluating which inspection company to use for your home inspection, please consider the advantage a thermal camera gives our certified inspectors during a home inspection. The Real Estate Inspection Company is committed to the value of this technology, and we use infrared cameras at every inspection. For more information, call (800) 232-5180. We service San Diego County, Orange County, and Riverside County.
