Roofing

Problems withroofing material are the single most common defect we find. Usually it doesn’t mean the roof needs replaced, simply that it is in need of maintenance
or repair.

 

Ceiling Stains

Caused by past orpresent leaks, ceiling stains are very common. It can be
difficult to tell whether the stains are from leaks still present, or were caused by leaks
which have since been repaired.

 

Electrical Hazards

Most common in older homes, but often found in newer homes as
well. Electrical hazards come in many forms, from ungrounded outlets to wiring done
incorrectly by the homeowner.

 

Rotted Wood

Caused by being wet for extended periods of time, most commonly found
around tubs, showers and toilets inside, or roof eaves and trim outside.
Water heater installations Many water heaters are not installed in full compliance with
local plumbing code.

Gas Furnace

Most gas furnacesseem to be in need of routine maintenance such as new
filters or gas company certification at the least. Many have other issues such as faulty
operation or inadequate fire clearance as well.

 

Plumbing Defects

Plumbing issuescommonly found include dripping faucets, leaking
fixtures, slow drains etc... Even in brand new homes, it is common to identify minor
plumbing defects.

 

Unsafe Fireplace and Chimney Conditions

These can range fromlack of maintenance, such as neglecting to hire a chimney sweep,
to faulty installation of fixtures. Most common among these are the lack of spark
arrestors and substandard placement of wood-burning stoves. Free-standing fireplaces
are typically installed by home owners and handymen, people without an adequate
knowledge of fire safety requirements. The most common violations in these cases
involve insufficient clearance between hot metal surfaces and combustible materials
within the building. Fire hazards of this kind are often concealed in attics, where they
remain undiscovered until a roof fire occurs.

 

Firewall Violations In Garages

Specialfire-resistive construction is required for walls and doors that separate a garage
from a dwelling. Violations are common, either due to faulty construction, damage or
alterations to the garage interior, or changes in code requirements since the home was
built. In older homes, where firewalls are not installed, sellers and agents will often say
that the building predates the code. However, the fire separation requirement for
residential garages dates back to 1927.

 

Building Violations Where Additions and Alterations Were Constructed without Permits

Homeowners willoften tell a home inspector, "We added the garage without a permit,
but it was all done to code." This statement is a red flag to most home inspectors, because
no one could possibly know the entire building code, and the average person without
professional involvement with the code is likely to know very little of it. Whenever an
owner offers code assurance, I know that problems are likely to be found.

 

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