Nikki's Blog

Rental Housing & Home Sales / Inspection Services

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:48:37 -0400

Rental Housing & Home Sales / Inspection Services

It appears rental housing here in Maryland are becoming an all time high. Most property owners I have spoken to claim they are not able to sell there home for what they feel its worth so they are turning them into rental units until they feel the market changes.

Tax claims can be deducted on pretty much any out of poscket expense relating to your property just as if it were your primary residence including INSPECTION SERVICES.

Some counties in Maryland require rental inspections.

Baltimore County Code Enforcement requires a Baltimore County Rental Inspection on any and all rental properties in order to obtain a rental license. Just like the state of Maryland they also require you to have a Lead Inspection done if your property was built before 1950.

♦♦ Lead Paint Inspections ♦♦

Nikki Marlatt-Young (410) 300-8699

Email: nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com

Website: www.ateasehome.com

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT LEAD PAINT INSPECTIONS FOR REAL ESTATE, PROPERTY SELLERS/BUYERS, AND RENTAL UNITS.

Contact me for other inspection services such as: Baltimore County Rental Licensing Inspections, Radon Testing, Real Estate Home Inspections.

Maryland Lead Paint Inspectors #12009

LEAD PAINT CERTIFICATES FOR RENTAL HOUSING - Testing for lead-contaminated dust an inspector must collect dust samples from each room in the unit. Each dust sample must be analyzed by a qualified laboratory, and the results must fall below specified levels. In general, testing for lead-contaminated dust is most likely to be successful in a clean, well-maintained property. Prior to testing for lead dust the inspector must verify that there is no defective paint on the interior or exterior.

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Baltimore County Rental Registration & Inspection Information

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:17:30 -0400

Baltimore County Rental Registration & Inspection Information

If you own /or/ manage a residential rental property in Baltimore County you must have that property inspected by a Maryland Licensed Home Inspector and registered with Baltimore County Code Enforcement.

Call or Email Nikki Marlatt-Young direct for appointment set up.

(410) 300-8699

nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com

Baltimore County Rental Inspection Includes:

- The Rental Inspection

- All Inspection paperwork that is needed to obtain a Baltimore County Renal License.

- Embedded photographs that are required to be taken by a Licensed Home Inspector. (example provided below)

- Discounted prices for future services when you renew your rental license in 3 years!

- Multi property discounts

- Flex Hours to meet your needs (including weekend hours)

Call or Email Nikki Marlatt-Young direct for appointment set up.

(410) 300-8699

nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com

Radon Gas

Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that is produced from the decay of radium in soil, and can leak into basements. In sufficient concentrations over an extended period of time, the radioactive aspect of the gas could be dangerous to human health. Like Most counties in Maryland, Baltimore County is rated as a HIGH Radon potential area according to the EPA maps.

Baltimore County Rental Registration FAQ

Q. How do I register my property?

A. You need to have the property inspected by a Maryland State Licensed Home Inspector who must be licensed w/ the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulations. The MD Home Inspector must sign and date paper work as well as provide the embedded photographs of the front & back of the property.

*After Inspection is completed you must then forward the following to Balt. County Code Enforcement:

-Rental Application

-Carbon Monoxide Alarm Verification

-Applicable lead inspection certificate

-Inspection Evaluation Sheet & Photographs (Completed by licensed home inspector)

-Application fee with payment coupon

Note:

• Original signatures must be in Blue Ink.

• Upon review & approval, the Bureau of Code Enforcement will register the property & send you the license.

• You must renew every 3 years and you must have the property re-inspected upon renewal.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Law - INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS:

■Alarms are to be installed in accordance with the manufacturers’ specifications for dwellings that contain one or more of the following: fuel burning equipment, attached garage, wood burning fireplace/pellet stove.

■ Supply and install 1 or more Carbon Monoxide alarms in the common area outside of each sleeping area.

(The alarm must carry the listing of a nationally recognized testing laboratory approved by the State of MD.)

■Provide written information on alarm testing and maintenance to at least one adult occupant of the housing unit, and maintain a signed acknowledgement by this adult that the information was received.

■Provide an alarm designed to alert hearing-impaired residents if an individual who is hearing-impaired occupies the housing unit and an occupant has requested the installation of the alarm by certified mail. ■Owners must comply by October 13, 2010 with the legislation, and will be required to certify to the Director of Permits and Development Management that the units are in compliance. Forms are available on the website at www.baltimorecountymd.gov under Rental Registration.

■By state law, all dwellings built after January 1, 2008 must contain hardwired carbon monoxide alarms. Under county law rental dwellings built prior to January 1, 2008, may have the alarm wired into an AC power line with a secondary battery backup, or plugged into an electrical outlet not controlled by a switch, with secondary backup, or battery powered.

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

LEAD PAINT INSPECTIONS / Things to remember before the inspection.

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Wed, 19 May 2010 12:58:48 -0400

Houses and Apartment Buildings built before 1950 have highest risk for lead hazards. Buildings built before 1978 are also at risk for lead hazards.

Always look for signs of lead hazards such as:

chipping, peeling, damaged paint
doors & windows that rub when you try to open them
paint chips in window wells, on the floor, on the exterior or on the soil outside.

Outside exterior areas are just as important as someone could step on chipped paint flakes and bring them into the home which then contaminates areas.

Make sure all window sills and wells are clean and free of any dirt and dust.
Make sure all floor areas are clean and free of dust and dirt.

Before dust sampling can be done a visual inspection of the exterior is done to make sure that all painted areas have no chipping, peeling, or damage.

After the visual is complete and passes the dust sampling process is begun. Samples are taken from window sills & wells or floor & wells this is at the discretion of the Inspector.

If replacement windows are present only the window sill or floor areas are tested.
If no windows are present a floor area would be tested.

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT LEAD PAINT INSPECTIONS FOR REAL ESTATE, PROPERTY SELLERS/BUYERS, AND RENTAL UNITS.

MDE Lead Paint Inspector :

Nikki Marlatt-Young (410) 300-8699 Maryland Lead Paint Inspectors #12009 Email: nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com Website: www.ateasehome.com Contact me for other inspection services such as:

Baltimore County Rental Inspections
Radon Testing
Real Estate Home Inspections.

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Please help find in finding a Missing Friend!!!!! - Baltimore MD please network this info out-

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 12:51:49 -0500

I am asking sincerely for everyones help! My neighbor Emily is desperately seeking help in finding her missing brother.

I know you may not know her or her brother but networking and getting info passed is the best way we can help.

(If you need to contact me about this please call my cell @ 410-300-8699 & I will get you in touch w/ Emily or her roommate Kasey)

Kevin Ange has been missing since approximately 11:30pm Friday 2/5/2010.

Last known walking in the 400 block of "Croydon Rd" Northern Baltimore City 21212.

Kevin Ange
White male
25/26yrs old
6'0-6'1"
150-175lbs (roughly)
Dirty blondish hair

* Last seen wearing blue jeans, navy blue hooded coat & a black skull cap*

If you or anyone you know lives in this area please help...

You can also help by passing this message out to anyone and everyone in your network that is in the Baltimore City, Baltimore County Area.

This is very important to me as my neighbor Emily is more then just a neighbor to me she is a very kind hearted soul whom I know would help anyone else in this type of situation.

I have attached a photo of Kevin in hopes that you too will post it and we can help Emily & her family find her brother!

(If you need to contact me about this please call my cell @ 410-300-8699 & I will get you in touch w/ Emily or her roommate Kasey)

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Sidewalks that are not clear of SNOW & Other Debris

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:57:06 -0500

As I am a Housing Inspector & Rental Inspector sometimes it is confused w/ Code Enforcement.

I have received many calls today about sidewalks that have yet to be cleared of snow & debris in front of properties that are For Sale or Rent. My response to these calls are there is really nothing I can do expect put word out about the issue. As this response is not good enough for some folks.... and I don't like giving potential clients answers they don't want to hear!!!

So I am putting the word out to eveyone I am networked w/ to Please...... READ.....

If you are selling or renting a property Please, Please don't forget to clear those sidewalks.

Calls I received today are about a house for sale in front of a school zone where crossing guards cross children and their parents.

I am not sure of the liability one would endure if someone were to fall and seriously hurt themselves. As I am sure it wouldn't be one I would want.

Thank you and I hope this finds you all well!

Yours Truly,

Nikki Marlatt-Young :)

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Baltimore County Rental Housing Licenses IMPORTANT UPDATE!!!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:40:59 -0500

Rental Housing Licenses

Baltimore County Code Enforcement is requiring Baltimore County Rental Property Owners to install carbon monoxide detectors in the common areas outside of each sleeping area.

CO detectors must be installed in all rental properties, including those built prior to January 1, 2008

All new and Re-Inspected Rental Properties will be required to have those installed to pass the Baltimore County Rental Inspections by a Maryland Licensed Home Inspector. Baltimore Code Enforcement will give those property owners that have already had their units inspected time to get those devices installed.

If you need further information on this issue please feel free to contact me at anytime. Nikki Marlatt-Young (410) 300-8699 /or/ nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com

Protect your family, install carbon monoxide alarms. These devices literally save lives.

They sound an alarm before the average adult normally would experience symptoms of CO poisoning.

Detectors are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most hardware stores or supply stores. They are easy to install if following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Fire officials recommend you place the alarms high on the walls of the house, if carbon monoxide is present, it will be fairly well-mixed with the existing air in a house. Install alarm in the hallway outside of all sleeping area and in rooms with fireplaces and fuel-burning appliances.

Test your alarm monthly by pushing the test button. If your alarm goes off, never ignore it. Do the following.

The state of Maryland and Baltimore County have taken steps to place carbon monoxide detectors in many residences.

Information about these laws and regulations is available online.

Nikki Marlatt-Young
MD Licensed Housing Inspector #30395
(410) 300-8699
nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

A Little Too Much Protection ~ Outside Air Condition Unit ~ Home Made Slab

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:10:54 -0400

A Little Too Much Protection ~ Outside Air Condition Unit ~ Home Made Slab

When I saw this I was like WOW! Someone went a little overboard with the concrete block.

Even though the block is heavy this thing is not stable at all!

Makes me wonder if Uncle Handyman really knew what he/she was doing when they installed the unit.

Or maybe they thought they had to make sure the slab was also raised.

What do you think?

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Mold Type Substance - Don't be silly...... It's MOLD

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:10:47 -0400

Home Inspectors here in Maryland are not suppose to use the word "MOLD" unless you are certified to test for mold.

However we are allowed to write in our reports "Mold Type Substance". Which is perfectly fine with me....

However in this case I really want to write "EXTREME MOLD ISSUES".

The home owner just re-did the basement bathroom about 2 months ago. Looks as though they will be doing that job over!!!!

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

nikkimarlattyoung@ateasehome.com - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Standing in the bathroom admiring the Turbine Vent Spin!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:48:46 -0400

Standing in the bathroom admiring the Turbine Vent Spin!

Wanted to share some interesting things I found in a row home located in the city. The unit has no attic and a flat roof. A couple months ago a roofing company was hired to install;

Granulated Modified Bitumen Roofing System over existing Flat Rubber Roof.
Sky Light glass was removed, and area was filled in with wood.
Contractor installed a “Turbine Non Powered Vent” instead of the exhaust fan.

As I am standing there I am thinking to myself... Nothing like being in a bathroom admiring the turbine non-powered vent go round and round insteading of reading a newspaper or book. (LoL)

I have never seen a “Turbine” on a flat roof, nor have I ever been in someones bathroom and been able to look up and see a Turbine spinning, has anyone else?

If you fill the area in under the turbine, what good is that turbine doing? I always thought the turbine was for "attic" areas to exhaust heat and humidity from the attic.... but there is no attic!

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

She only did it to pass lead inspection, who cares about safety??

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Fri, 22 May 2009 11:44:12 -0400

She only did it to pass lead inspection, who cares about safety??

I couldn't believe what I was hearing the other day when I went to inspect this house.

So I go to open a window, only to find the window was sealed shut. So I go to open another window only to find it was screwed shut. Then after trying to open all the windows I found that either they were sealed screwed or nailed shut.

As the owner of the property lives out of state I spoke with her on the telephone. I asked what the reasoning was behind making all the windows in the house un-operable.

Her response to me was shocking!

This lady explained the reason she sealed all the windows, and made it so they were un-operable was to pass and receive a lead certification. I explained to her due to the fact she did this only put her now in a fire/safety violation.

Her response was icing on the cake!

She stated... "I know what I have done and if there was a fire in the house and someone was trapped they could just break the window, they do not need to open it. Its just glass"

To top things off.... I asked her if the realtor she hired was aware of this.... she stated "in deed and was told it is ok... that house will sell because the kitchen is beautiful"!

I told her (of course in a nice sweet way) that I have no idea who her realtor is... but I have never heard ANY realtor or any other person that sells houses EVER state such things....

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Gas Water Heater Vent Pipe & Hood Installation

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 10:54:41 -0400

Hey Guys..... I hope all is well with everyone! Keeping busy I hope!!!!

So here is my issue this week.... I have never seen this before and was hoping to get some insight from my fellow home inspectors out there. I have looked through my books and other information that I have on water heaters but still can not find anything that looks anything like this or any information on if this is the correct way to install.

Below are two photos of the Hood and Vent Pipe.

Is this correct installation for a GAS WATER HEATER?

I have only seen GAS WATER HEATERS / HOOD installed like the example I provided below....

Can't wait to hear from you guys... Its been a while! I hope all is good! ~~~~ Nikki

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Gas Water Heater Vent Pipe & Hood Installation

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 10:52:31 -0400

Hey Guys..... I hope all is well with everyone! Keeping busy I hope!!!!

Below are two photos of the Hood and Vent Pipe.

Is this correct installation for a GAS WATER HEATER?
So here is my issue this week.... I have never seen this before and was hoping to get some insight from my fellow home inspectors out there. I have looked through my books and other information that I have on water heaters but still can not find anything that looks anything like this or any information on if this is the correct way to install.

I have only seen GAS WATER HEATERS / HOOD installed like the example I provided below....

Can't wait to hear from you guys... Its been a while! I hope all is good! ~~~~ Nikki

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Inside Dryer Venting.... What are your thoughts????

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 22:53:28 -0400

Inside Dryer Venting... What are your thoughts on this?

I took the best photo I could with out moving this person's dryer.... I noticed all kinds of dust and debri in and around the area. I am looking for comments on how one feels about "inside dryer venting, vs. venting to the outside.

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Nikki's Photo Of The Day!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:01:00 -0500

I thought this was a great photo to share with everyone.

Yesterday after an inspection I spotted these stairs out of the corner of my eye.

My thoughts were "what a great photo to add to my collection". So I thought I would share it with all of you as my Photo of the Day!

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Water & Electrical ~ Agree /or/ Disagree

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:33:41 -0500

Water & Electric

Ok ..... I have always learned water and electric does not mix.

We should all agree on that (I hope)!

So let's say a water pipe located directly above the main electrical panel freezes and bursts. The main panel, the breakers, wires, light fixtures, outlets, etc. have all been exposed to large amounts of water.

Do you agree or disagree that even if there is no visible damage, simply letting the fixtures, wiring, "dry out" is not the proper or recommended practice?

Rather the only safe alternative is to replace the affected wiring, breakers, fixtures, and outlets.

What are you thoughts on this issue?

Contact: Nikki Marlatt-Young; Maryland Licesned Home Inspector #30395

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

HEY GUYS!!!! Your input would be greatly appreciated!!!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 08:07:44 -0500

Last night I was visiting family in PA. I noticed the ceiling has this black soot type stains in the corners and following the truss line in the off room / sitting area, located near the front door and stairway. There is no fireplace located in the area and the kitchen is located on the other side of the house. Directly above the area is a small attic entrance that backs to the master bath. There are no other areas in the house that have this soot type stain on the ceiling or any of the floor areas. Usually this would be an easy answer for me if there were a fireplace or kitchen area close with in the area. or if the stains were present in other parts of the house. Do you think that if this was coming from the air stream it would be in other areas of the house instead of just this one location??? Any input you guys could give me would be greatly appreciated...

Contact: Nikki Marlatt-Young; Maryland Licesned Home Inspector #30395

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Baltimore County’s 350th Year Anniversary Event

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:02:27 -0500

Up coming event in Baltimore County

Baltimore County's 350th Year Anniversary Event

On Saturday, Feb. 14th 2009 at 1:00pm, Baltimore County will mark its 350th anniversary at the Benjamin Bannekar Park / Historical Museum. The museum is located at 300 Oella Ave, Catonsville MD 21228.

This event is being held in conjunction with the Benjamin Banneker, Inc. who will be saluting African American firsts in Baltimore County Maryland. County Exec. Jim Smith will acknowledge their legacies.

This event is free and open to the public. Benjamin Banneker Park & Historical Museum. The primary focus of the park and museum is the contributions of Benjamin Banneker - the first African American Man of Science. There are also extensive nature trails, patio garden, visitors center, collection of Bannekers work, a community gallery, and gift shop located at the park.

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Where have all the good ROOFERS gone? I'm holding out for a good ROOFER.

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 10:22:13 -0500

Where have all the good ROOFERS gone and where are all the gods?

Where's the street wise hercules to fight the rising odds?

Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery seed?

Late at night I toss and I turn and I dream of what I need......

I need a ROOFER

I'm holding out for a good ROOFER.

He's gotta be stong and he's gotta be fair, and he's gotta be fresh from the fight.

I need a ROOFER I'm holding out for a good ROOFER, he's gotta be sure, and its gotta be soon!

Rember that song??

That Bonne Tyler song is what has been going through my head for a couple of days now. In the past couple of days I have spoken to a couple of roofers via telephone.

What I am getting from most is,, if the work doesn't amount to the high dollar price it isn't worth their time. As the economy has hurt most of us.... i am thinking geeeeeeeee its nice to know someone people are able to turn down work because the price isn't high enough for them.

As I look through my contacts, the professionals I have had the pleasure in becoming acquaintances with and those names I toss out there to others.... I have found that my plumber, heating and air tech, electrician, landscaper, window and door installer, interior remodeling team, painter, etc. etc. have all been great to call upon and are extremely happy to have any type of lead or potential job.

I have never gotten the impression that they would turn down work because the job didn't pay high dollar.. I keep searching for a roofer contact but can't seem to pull one of those contacts out of my black book..... hmmmmmm WONDER WHY .........................

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact: Nikki Marlatt-Young; Maryland Licesned Home Inspector #30395

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Where have all the good ROOFERS gone, Im holding out for a good roofer!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 10:18:26 -0500

Where have all the good ROOFERS gone and where are all the gods?

Where's the street wise hercules to fight the rising odds?

Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery seed?

Late at night I toss and I turn and I dream of what I need......

I need a ROOFER

I'm holding out for a good ROOFER.

He's gotta be stong and he's gotta be fair, and he's gotta be fresh from the fight.

I need a ROOFER I'm holding out for a good ROOFER, he's gotta be sure, and its gotta be soon!

Rember that song??

That Bonne Tyler song is what has been going through my head for a couple of days now. In the past couple of days I have spoken to a couple of roofers via telephone.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact: Nikki Marlatt-Young; Maryland Licesned Home Inspector #30395

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Rubber Roof ........... Alligatoring????? Help Me Out Here Guys!!!!!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 17:56:17 -0500

I always thought that "Alligatoring" is a characteristic of asphalt, and occurs with aging.

Can a rubber roof have alligatoring?

One of my rental properties has a rubber roof... The renter called to say that the roof was leaking so, I called a roofer this afternoon to go check out the problem. The roofer just got back to me stating the rubber roof is alligatoring and shows no signs that there are any holes.

I find this hard to swallow... the amount of damage the house has in the upstairs bedroom and bathroom tells me that there is a hole in that roof somewhere. Has anyone ever heard of a rubber flat roof "Alligatoring"? I ask because I didn't think that was possible. And of course due to the wonderful law I as a home inspector am not allowed to inspect or write any kind of info on a property I have an interest in. So I rely on others to find what I would find... What do you all think?????? What should I do???

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

I'll show you mine if you show me yours........

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 19:27:26 -0500

So I was sitting here looking at some past photos I have taken over time and thought... hmmm wonder if anyone else has any really cool photos of shame they can share? Here are some of my photos and a little caption of what was going through my mind when I was taking the photo....

What Nikki was thinking.... So you wonder why the basement seems to always be damp....

This person was told that putting bbq charcoal in the house would take care of all their oder problems....

What Nikki was thinking..... OH MY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT NIKKI WAS THINKING....... OH MY OH MY OH MY

You have got to be kidding me!!!!!!

I will share more later,,,... but in the mean time..... post some of your photos of shame to share with me...... Lets see some really good ones.... not just the same old photos we are all use to seeing... make them good.... I would really like to see what some of you all have come across....

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

NEWS RELEASE: Rental Registration Program Success

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 18:34:08 -0500

News Update from James T. Smith Jr., County Executive

Rental Registration Program Successful
Nearly 12,000 Addresses Now On File

Towson, Md. (February 3, 2009) — Baltimore County officials released information today demonstrating significant compliance with the County's rental registration legislation that was passed by the Baltimore County Council on November 19, 2007. The initial legislation was later amended on July 7, 2008 to extend the deadline for compliance from July 1, 2008 to January 1, 2009.

At the beginning of the registration process, county code enforcement officials estimated that 12,000-15,000 dwellings in Baltimore County qualified for registration under the provisions of the law. As of February 1, 2009, 11,468 addresses are now registered as part of the rental registration program. "The fact that Baltimore County now has nearly 12,000 properties registered is remarkable," said Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith. "From the beginning, this legislation was about the quality-of-life in our communities. I commend county staff, community leaders, and property owners for their efforts."

Protects Safety, Health and Welfare

Rental registration protects the safety, health and welfare of tenants of by creating an additional procedure for the enforcement of county codes and regulations. The legislation requires a home inspection of each rental unit by a licensed private inspector. These mandatory inspections ensure that electrical and plumbing systems are functional with no apparent hazards, that windows are operational, that all combustion appliances are properly vented, that there is a secondary means of escape from all sleeping areas, and that smoke detectors are correctly installed and properly located. "Having rental properties registered with the County will help maintain our communities," said Ed Kilcullen, President of the Greater Towson Council of Community Associations. "This is a very positive step, and I am pleased that Baltimore County now has a comprehensive registration process in place."

The County administrative fee for the mandatory rental housing license application varies from $40 to $50. Applications must be submitted to the Code Enforcement Bureau along with an official inspection sheet completed by a licensed inspector. Landlords are responsible for hiring a qualified inspector who is licensed by the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation.

Certain rental dwellings are exempt from this law, including those that:

Are owner occupied, with other individuals in the home related by blood, marriage, or adoption
Are owner occupied, with no more than one additional unrelated adult and any of that individual's minor dependents
Serve as group homes
Are being rented back to the previous owner as part of a real estate sale
Are being rented to a caregiver living with the owner

"There are over 3,000 addresses now registered in my district," said Councilman Johnny Olszewski, Sr. "I was confident that the county could develop an effective program and it did. Compliance with this legislation is good news for people in eastern Baltimore County."

Progarm a Success

"The success of this program is an example of what government can do when it focuses on issues that make a real difference in the day-to-day lives of its citizens," said Councilman Vince Gardina. "While rental registration will improve neighborhoods all around the county, it is particularly welcome in Towson."

Landlords Can Visit the County Web Site

Landlords who have not yet registered their property are encouraged to visit the County's Rental Housing License web pages, to download all necessary documents related to the Rental Registration Law Paper copies of these documents are also available at all Baltimore County public libraries, senior centers, and at the Code Enforcement Bureau, located in Room 213 of the County Office Building, 111 W. Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, MD 21204. Landlords who fail to register rental property in Baltimore County are subject to a $1,000 civil penalty.

A complete list of properties registered in the county will be available online in the near future. For additional information regarding rental registration, individuals may call 410-887-6060.

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Peanut.... Peanut Butter & Jelly

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 11:28:31 -0500

529 people sick from the salmonella outbreak, 8 people who died from it, and 420 products recalled.

~ WOW ~

Michael Doyle, head of the food safety center at the University of Georgia said. "I think this peanut plant is just an example of the weakness in our system."

I say… Let this be an example of why inspectors of all kind should give in depth detailed reports!!!!

Some one described the facility extremely dirty and management showed no signs in keeping the building maintained. Rather more worried about the numbers and volume the company produced. Now the state of Georgia will provide inspectors with more in depth training in order to inspect properly. Its noted that the problem likely spans far beyond Georgia.

~~~~~ WHAT ~~~~

A Health inspector in Georgia toured the plant and only noted two minor violations in October. Then less then 3 month later, a federal inspector found roaches, mold, leaking roof and other problems.

The roof was leaking for months and continued to leak.

Food and safety experts say the lapse is a major concern and shows state inspectors are spread thin and might need more training.

~~~~~PLEASE ~~~~ If an inspector of any kind can not spot a leaking roof or even write that there is a “mold" type substance present. Then either someone needs to find a new line of work or they are just down right lazy.

Then it was stated that the department has 60 inspectors responsible for examining 15,000 sites and some territories are left uncovered.

~~~~ They should take advice From the Baltimore County Council ~~~~

Find away to take care of your problem before it becomes out of control.

In my opinion Baltimore County was smart for stepping up and making it known that there is concern about the rental properties in the county. So instead of ignoring the potential problem… They made it mandatory for all rental properties to be inspected by a “State Licensed Home Inspector”. Now the County can have all properties inspected and are able to free up their time to handle those “MAJOR” property concerns.

It’s really a wonder that Baltimore City and other Counties in Maryland have not stepped up and followed example of this new law.

ANYWAY..... When reading this stuff I keep thinking to myself.... this is why I make sure I really look at everything.... and make note of something even when I am not sure!

Even though I am not a health inspector or inspect building such as the peanut butter plant...

I still feel that even in our homes there could be A SAFTEY OR HEALTH ISSUE!!!!!!!

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

When I Grow Up...... I want to be like Mommy!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:04:40 -0500

Another funny email I received today!

Please keep in mind this is "not" a picture colored by one of my children!

ENJOY!!!

Letter to a students teacher followed by the picture:

Dear Mrs. Jones,
I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an exotic dancer.
I work at Home Depot. I told my daughter how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit.
I told her we sold out every shovel we had, and when I found one more in the back room, that several people were fighting over who would get it. Her picture doesn't show me dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the last snow shovel we had.
From now on I will remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she turns it in.
Sincerely, Mrs. Smith

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Maryland Home Inspections for Buyers & Sellers!

Nikki Marlatt-Young (At Ease Home Inspections) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 12:27:36 -0500

Thinking of buying or selling a home?

Don't forget a home inspection before you do so.

Thinking of using your property as a "baltimore county rental unit"?

Don't forget to contact a MD Licensed Home Inspector before you do so. Its now a Baltimore County Law to have the property inspected before you rent the property to someone.

Radon Testing Service offered!

Contact: Nikki Marlatt-Young; Maryland Licesned Home Inspector #30395

Nikki Marlatt-Young

Maryland Licensed Home Inspector #30395

(410) 300-8699 - Direct Phone

ae-hi@comcast.net - Direct Email

www.ateasehome.com

Home Inspection & Pre-Sale Inspection Services Provided to all of Maryland Areas

Baltimore County Rental Inspections to any Baltimore County Rental Property Owner

Radon Testing

Nikki Marlatt-Young

(410)300-8699

Nikki's Blog

Rental Housing & Home Sales / Inspection Services

Baltimore County Rental Registration & Inspection Information

LEAD PAINT INSPECTIONS / Things to remember before the inspection.

Please help find in finding a Missing Friend!!!!! - Baltimore MD please network this info out-

Kevin AngeWhite male25/26yrs old6'0-6'1"150-175lbs (roughly)Dirty blondish hair

(If you need to contact me about this please call my cell @ 410-300-8699 & I will get you in touch w/ Emily or her roommate Kasey)

Sidewalks that are not clear of SNOW & Other Debris

As I am a Housing Inspector & Rental Inspector sometimes it is confused w/ Code Enforcement.

So I am putting the word out to eveyone I am networked w/ to Please...... READ.....

If you are selling or renting a property Please, Please don't forget to clear those sidewalks.

Calls I received today are about a house for sale in front of a school zone where crossing guards cross children and their parents.

I am not sure of the liability one would endure if someone were to fall and seriously hurt themselves. As I am sure it wouldn't be one I would want.

Thank you and I hope this finds you all well!

Yours Truly,

Nikki Marlatt-Young :)

Baltimore County Rental Housing Licenses IMPORTANT UPDATE!!!

A Little Too Much Protection ~ Outside Air Condition Unit ~ Home Made Slab

Mold Type Substance - Don't be silly...... It's MOLD

Standing in the bathroom admiring the Turbine Vent Spin!

She only did it to pass lead inspection, who cares about safety??

Gas Water Heater Vent Pipe & Hood Installation

Gas Water Heater Vent Pipe & Hood Installation

Inside Dryer Venting.... What are your thoughts????

Nikki's Photo Of The Day!

Water & Electrical ~ Agree /or/ Disagree

HEY GUYS!!!! Your input would be greatly appreciated!!!

Baltimore County’s 350th Year Anniversary Event

Where have all the good ROOFERS gone? I'm holding out for a good ROOFER.

Where have all the good ROOFERS gone, Im holding out for a good roofer!

Rubber Roof ........... Alligatoring????? Help Me Out Here Guys!!!!!

I'll show you mine if you show me yours........

NEWS RELEASE: Rental Registration Program Success

Peanut.... Peanut Butter & Jelly

When I Grow Up...... I want to be like Mommy!

Maryland Home Inspections for Buyers & Sellers!

Kevin Ange
White male
25/26yrs old
6'0-6'1"
150-175lbs (roughly)
Dirty blondish hair