Knowing about some of the situations that can exist in home allows you to

be well-informed. History tells us that there are potential items that have

been discovered as the top ten defects in most homes.

 

Roofing:

Leaks due to flashing, material failure due to aging and deterioration

 

Ceiling Stains, Indicating Past or Current Roof Leaks:

The problem here is that you often can't tell if the roof still leaks,

unless it is inspected on a rainy day. Some stains are merely the residual

effects of leaks that have been repaired. There is also the possibility

that the ceiling stains were caused by a former leak in the roof

 

Water Intrusion:

Water penetration into the basement or crawlspace due to surface water

conditions, poor rain water distribution, poor grading around the

foundation

 

Electrical Safety Issues:

Due to age of home, lack of ground fault circuit interrupters, faulty

wiring conditions in panels or elsewhere in the home, improper sized

circuit breakers and fuses, etc.

 

Windows/Doors:

The operating (moving) windows and doors will wear out over time. Impacts

include air infiltration, difficult to clean/operate, and increased energy

costs. Condensation frequently forms when warm, moist interior air reaches

the cool metal frame. Combine that source of moisture with dust and dirt

due to a lack of cleaning and the end results is a mold growth.

 

HVAC:

Air filters, accumulations of dirt may signal improper preventive

maintenance or system failures

 

Rotten Wood:

Rotted wood at exterior and at various plumbing fixtures, roof eaves,

decks, steps, tubs and showers, and below toilets

 

Structural:

Issues due to improper construction and/or alterations, or cracks in the

foundation wall may indicate a serious structural problem

 

Fireplace and Chimney Conditions:

Lack of maintenance and cleaning, fire safety issues, lack of rain caps

 

Neglect/Maintenance:

Be very cautious of a home suffering from deferred maintenance. You can

spot them immediately and they will cost you a lot of money to bring them

up to acceptable standards.

 

Building Relationships with each Inspection