Home inspections backed by 25+ years of real-world construction experience and today’s latest inspection technology.
Why Buyers Choose Foundation First Home Inspections
Not all home inspections deliver the same depth, accuracy, or clarity. Our inspections are designed to reduce risk, uncover hidden defects, and give you confidence before closing.
✔ Deeper Inspections – Advanced HVAC & building science training
✔ Enhanced Defect Detection– Advanced Thermal Imaging Technology
✔ Better Roof Evaluations – FAA-licensed drone inspections
✔ Health & Safety Insight – Mold & Radon testing available
✔ Clear, Visual Reports – Easy-to-understand, photo-rich reports
✔ Fast Turnaround – Reports delivered usually within 24 hours
Because a home inspection shouldn’t leave you uncertain — it should leave you informed.
Beyond the Surface: Our Advanced Toolkit
We don’t just glance at a home we perform a thorough, detailed diagnostic inspection. While some inspectors rely on basic methods, we use advanced technology to uncover issues others might miss. Our process is intentionally comprehensive and takes the time needed to do the job right. If you want a cheap and fast inspection, we’re not the company for you. We offer only thorough, detailed service.
The Tools We Use for Your Peace of Mind:
Drones: For safe, detailed inspection of roofing and inaccessible areas.
Thermal Imaging Cameras: To instantly detect hidden water leaks, missing insulation, and electrical hot spots.
Combustion Analyzers & Gas Detectors: To ensure the safety and efficiency of furnaces, water heaters, and indoor air quality.
Moisture & Humidity Meters: For accurate, non-invasive identification of moisture intrusion and potential mold conditions.
Black Lights (UV): To reveal previous repairs, pet stains, and other substances invisible to the naked eye.
And more: We rely on more than tools alone — experience, training, and attention to detail are just as important as technology.
As the founder of Foundation First Home Inspections, I’m Keith — a licensed Home Inspector serving the Chicago suburbs. I’m also a State of Illinois–licensed Radon Measurement Professional. In addition, I hold certification from the International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants (IAC2) for Mold and Radon Inspections, and I’m an FAA Part 107 licensed Drone Pilot for roof and aerial property inspections. I am also a member of InterNACHI, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. along with advanced training in building science and thermal imaging to help identify hidden defects and performance issues. I have state-recognized advanced HVAC training, which allows me to go beyond a basic visual check of heating systems. While many inspections stop at a quick visual of the burner flame and a general “looks good” assessment, I perform diagnostic HVAC evaluations and combustion analysis to help identify safety concerns, performance issues, and conditions that could lead to costly repairs or premature furnace replacement. A furnace replacement can be a very costly and significant expense for any homeowner.
"I didn’t just learn about homes from a book. Over the last 25 years, I’ve been hands-on in almost every trade there is—from siding and painting to drywall, tile, and both rough and finish carpentry. I’ve even spent time in the trenches with electrical and plumbing. In 2010, I took that experience and launched my own remodeling company as a General Contractor, managing crews and overseeing entire projects from the ground up.
When you hire Foundation First Home Inspections, you’re getting that 25 years of field-tested knowledge combined with the latest inspection technology. I know how homes are built, where they fail, and exactly what to look for."
—Keith Barango, Founder.
Expert Home Inspections You Can Trust: Licensed, Certified, and Fully Insured
Our services include:
Comprehensive Home Inspection – Full evaluation of your home’s major systems and structure.
(The standard, full-property evaluation performed for most real estate transactions.)Starting at $450 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft. Add radon testing or mold air sampling to your home inspection and receive discounted pricing.
Radon Testing
Add-on with a home inspection: $250
Standalone radon test (no home inspection) : $350
Mold testing and Air Sampling (Lab-Verified)
Starting at $350 when performed with a home inspection
Standalone mold air sampling (no home inspection): $450
This inspection includes a thorough, non-invasive assessment of the home’s major systems, structure, and components, including:
• Roofing
• Exterior
• Structure & foundation
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing systems
• HVAC systems
• Interior components
• Insulation & ventilation
Expert consultations, site walkthroughs, and exclusive investor insights. Book today and receive a discount on your final report. Call us for details.
Get the facts before you even make an offer.
Condo Inspection (Roof & Exterior Excluded) – Interior systems and components only; common elements excluded per HOA.
Starting at $400 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft. Add radon testing or mold air sampling to your home inspection and receive discounted pricing.
11-Month Warranty Inspection – Identify issues before your builder’s warranty expires.
Starting at $400 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft. Add radon testing or mold air sampling to your home inspection and receive discounted pricing. Radon levels can change over time. If elevated levels are found, the EPA recommends retesting every 5 years to monitor your home’s safety.
Annual Home Inspection – Stay on top of maintenance and prevent costly repairs.
Starting at $400 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft. Add radon testing or mold air sampling to your home inspection and receive discounted pricing.
Radon levels can change over time. If elevated levels are found, the EPA recommends retesting every 5 years to monitor your home’s safety.
Home Care Loyalty Rate
→ $350only for returning clients
Client must have had a full home inspection previously
Property must be the same home
Inspection must be scheduled within 12–14 months of the prior onePre-Drywall Inspection
Inspection of the foundation, framing, structural components, and visible mechanical rough-ins (electrical, plumbing, and HVAC) prior to insulation and drywall installation to help identify issues before they are concealed..
Starting at $500 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft.
Add radon testing (post-construction) or mold air sampling at a later phase if desired.New Construction Inspection – Ensure your new home meets quality and safety standards.
Starting at $450 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft. Add radon testing or mold air sampling to your home inspection and receive discounted pricing.
Repair Verification Inspection – Confirm recent repairs were done correctly.
$200 flat rate : Targeted inspection to confirm that previously reported defects or repairs have been corrected. Limited to items noted in the original inspection report.
Pre-Listing Home Inspection - Identify issues before listing to help avoid surprises and strengthen buyer confidence.
Starting at $450 for homes up to 2,000 sq ft. Add $50 for each additional 500 sq ft. Add radon testing or mold air sampling to your home inspection and receive discounted pricing. Radon levels can change over time. If elevated levels are found, the EPA recommends retesting every 5 years to monitor your home’s safety.