5 Common Findings |
Here are five common problems found during an
average inspection:
1. Improper Surface Grading and Drainage. This problem
is responsible for the most common of household maladies: water penetration in the
basement or crawlspace.
2. Improper Electrical Wiring. Common electrical problems include
insufficient electrical service, inadequate overload protection; and amateur, often
dangerous, wiring connections.
3. Roof Damage. Roof leakage caused by old or damaged shingles or
improper flashing is a common problem.
4. Heating Systems. Heating problems include broken or malfunctioning
operating controls, blocked chimneys, and unsafe exhaust disposal.
5. Poor Overall Maintenance. Even the novice home buyer is usually aware
of this situation, demonstrated by such signs as cracked, peeling, or dirty painted
surfaces; crumbling masonry; makeshift wiring or plumbing; and broken fixtures or
appliances.
We take great care to point out solutions to all of the problems we find. We recommend
prelisting inspections to help home sellers identify trouble areas and fix little problems
before they become major obstacles in the negotiating process. |
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Inspecting Exterior Siding Well-maintained siding can last as long as your house. Normal
maintenance simply requires painting and repairing cracked, broken, loose, rotting, or
missing sections. Identified early enough, fix-up may be limited to a small area. But many
times neglect allows siding to deteriorate to the point where complete re-siding is
required.
When looking at siding, pay particular attention to the sections that face south or
southwest, since these areas receive maximum exposure to the sun and are more vulnerable
to weather deterioration.
Check that the bottom of the siding is at least eight inches above the finished grade.
Otherwise the wood or wood nailing boards can rot from ground moisture and are more
vulnerable to termites.
Vines can cause many problems for exterior siding. Although they are visually pleasing,
vines can conceal termites or cracked siding. They can also increase the disrepair of
cracks and damaged mortar joints. And since vines are alive, their moisture can increase
the likelihood of rot and paint deterioration.
Here are a few additional inspection tips:
Check aluminum siding for loose, missing, or damaged sections.
Inspect joints for open sections and weather tightness.
Test for an electrical ground connection (the requirement for this can be verified by your
local building department).
Check vinyl siding for open joints and loose, cracked, or sagging sections.
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