MOST COMMON DEFECTS

Electrical - Insufficient overload protection to the electrical service and amateur (and often dangerous) wiring connections are the most common issues. Electrical system problems are safety related and require immediate attention.

Inadequate Insulation & Ventilation in Attic – Poor insulation and poor ventilation causes excessive utility costs and lack of occupant comfort. In an effort to save energy, many homeowners have “over sealed” their homes, resulting in excessive interior moisture due to inadequate ventilation. Significant moisture and excessive heat build-up within the attic cavity can lead to rapid shingle deterioration, Mold build-up, peeling of exterior paint, rusty nails, energy losses and rotting and failure of both structural and non-structural elements.

Whole House is Poorly Maintained – Deferred maintenance represents a potential high cost situation to bring the home back into satisfactory condition. If the homeowner did not properly care for the home, someone will need to upgrade the home sooner or later.

Heating/Cooling System Defects - Improper installations, inadequate maintenance, exhaust and combustion issues, aged components, and malfunctioning controls are the most frequent.

Roof Issues – Improperly installed and aged surfaces occur frequently. I frequently find poorly installed or missing flashing at the transition areas. Repairs may be simple or (at times) the entire roof may need to be replaced.

Minor Structural Damage - Minor structural damage means the house is not likely to fall down, but you should deal with the problem before it becomes more serious. Such damage is usually caused by water seepage into the foundation, floor joists, rafters or window and door headers are found unstable. First you need to fix the cause of the problem (a leaky roof or improper drainage outside the foundation,for example), then repair or replace any damaged structural members. Inadequate caulking or weather stripping is most common. Obviously, the more extensive the damage, the more expensive it will be to repair.

Plumbing Issues – The most common defects are deteriorated cast iron, leaking and outdated problematic systems like polybutylene and galvanized piping and any incompatible piping materials. Repairs can often be made by a licensed Plumber but on occasion total system replacement is the only solution.

Poor Drainage around the Structure – All water needs to drain away from the structure at its perimeter to prevent water intrusion into the basement. Roof gutters and extended downspouts can sometimes be installed to rectify any site drainage problems. Grading (sloped away from the foundation) is also very important in this situation.

Air and Water Penetrating Cracks and Window Perimeters at Exterior – Foundation cracks and separations at basement windows can allow water into the wall cavities which is conducive to Mold growth.

Minor Structural Damage – Cut, modified and broken trusses, rafters and floor joists are often found in attic cavities and on occasion I also find structural components missing. Usually carpentry repairs are needed, however I find it is rarely an imminent safety hazard.

Termite and other wood destroying organisms - Due the local environment and conducive conditions. All wood boring insect damage can absolutely be corrected. Costs will depend on how excessive the insect damage is.

Fire safety issues - Related to Electrical issues and fireplaces & wood stoves are often neglected.