Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Home Inspection Experts in Cambridge, MA
Bay State Property Inspection has been serving Greater Boston since 1996, delivering comprehensive real estate inspections led by owner Mark Swab. With over 2,000 inspections completed and decades of hands-on experience as a licensed General Contractor since 1985, we combine technical expertise with practical knowledge of construction and renovation. Our inspections cover all major building systems, from foundations to roofing, with detailed reports that identify current conditions and provide actionable repair recommendations. We prioritize client education, offering free follow-up consultations for as long as you own your property. Mark Swab personally conducts every inspection, ensuring direct access to our most experienced professional.Specializing in antique homes and VA/FHA inspections, we serve buyers, sellers, and lending institutions with transparent, reliable service. Our commitment to thoroughness extends to explaining system operations during inspections, empowering clients to maintain their properties confidently. As a smaller company, we deliver personalized attention that larger firms cannot match. Our reputation for accuracy and integrity has made us a trusted resource in the Boston real estate market. Whether inspecting single-family homes or commercial properties, we approach every assignment with the same dedication to excellence that has defined our business since 1996.
Services
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Mold Testing
Radon Testing
Water Testing
VA/FHA Inspections
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in home inspections since 1996
- Our team provides free follow-up consultations for as long as you own your home
- We specialize in antique homes and VA/FHA inspections
- Our inspections cover all major building systems with detailed reports
- Owner Mark Swab conducts all inspections personally
Services
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Our comprehensive pre-purchase inspections evaluate all major building systems including structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and roofing. We deliver on-site reports identifying current conditions, potential issues, and maintenance recommendations. Inspections help buyers make informed decisions about residential and commercial properties.
Mold Testing
Professional mold testing services identify potential air quality issues through comprehensive sampling and laboratory analysis. We assess moisture sources, visible mold growth, and airborne spore concentrations to provide actionable remediation recommendations. Our testing helps protect property investments and occupant health.
Radon Testing
We conduct EPA-compliant radon testing using continuous monitoring equipment to measure radon gas levels in residential and commercial properties. Our testing follows strict protocols to ensure accurate results, with detailed reports explaining findings and mitigation recommendations when elevated levels are detected.
Water Testing
Our water testing services analyze private well systems for contaminants including bacteria, heavy metals, and chemical compounds. We collect samples following state guidelines and provide clear reports explaining water quality results. Testing helps ensure safe drinking water for home buyers and property owners.
VA/FHA Inspections
Specialized inspections for VA and FHA loan programs ensure properties meet federal requirements. We evaluate structural integrity, safety hazards, and essential systems compliance. Our reports help buyers secure financing by identifying necessary repairs and ensuring properties meet program-specific standards.
People
Mark Swab
Owner/Inspector
Mark Swab is a licensed Massachusetts Home Inspector (#18) and General Contractor (#77148) with over 25 years of experience in property inspections and building systems. He has conducted more than 2,000 inspections since 1996 and specializes in antique homes and real estate diagnostics.
Questions
What does a home inspection cover?
Our inspections examine all major building systems including roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural components. We also check doors, windows, insulation, and major appliances during the visual assessment.
How long does an inspection take?
Inspections typically take 2-4 hours depending on property size, age, and condition. Older homes or properties with complex systems may require additional time to complete the thorough assessment.
Should I attend the inspection?
We recommend attending the entire inspection to observe findings firsthand and learn about property systems. However, we provide detailed phone consultations if you cannot be present during the assessment.
What if problems are found?
Our reports identify current conditions and potential issues with clear recommendations for repairs or replacements. We explain findings in plain language to help you understand necessary actions and associated costs.
Do you offer post-inspection support?
Yes, we provide free telephone consultations for as long as you own your property. Mark Swab remains available to answer questions about inspection findings or property maintenance concerns.
Are specialized tests included?
We offer mold, radon, and water testing as additional services. These specialized assessments help identify specific concerns beyond standard visual inspections, providing comprehensive information for real estate decisions.
