The past couple years I have had a chance to see alot of bank owned properties. Some owned by HUD, and those referred to as REO (Real Estate Owned) properties. These properties can offer home buyers a great value and an opportunity for building equity.

Having a home inspection on one of these properties is so very important. Unfortunately the circumstances that led to the home being foreclosed upon also tells you that there likely is deferred maintenance and possible needed repairs that were not performed, because there was no money for the previous occupants to do so.

Furthermore the banks and HUD will have their own inspections performed. But Buyer BEWARE that these "inspections" are not necessarily performed by Washington State Licensed Home Inspectors, nor are those "inspections" performed in accordance to the States' Standards of Practice regulating home inspections.

A recent inspection I performed, for a couple in Snohomish, WA, revealed multiple serious defects which included electrical, plumbing, roofing, and structural concerns. The seller produced one of these REO inspection reports, explaining she received it when she purchased the home a couple years earlier. I read the one page report that provided little information useful to a home buyer, and revealed none of these obvious visible defects that would have been present at time of the previous inspection/ sale.

What is sad is this buyer relied upon the report as if it were legitimate, and failed to have her own inspection performed.

Another example is a recent inspection which involved a current HUD home in Kirkland, WA that also had a HUD Property Condition Report. Fortunately this buyer had the right idea, and hired me to perform a professional home inspection.

In preparation for the inspection, he asked if I would like to see the HUD report. I accepted and again was dissapointed, particulary once I had completed a thorough review of the homes' conditions.

This report was better than the Snohomish one, but still lacked significantly. There were several serious defects that the report did not address. Such as flooding of the crawl space, plumbing drainage and supply line defects in the crawl space, and heating system duct damage in the crawl space.

See the pattern....the HUD Inspector never inspected the crawl space!!!

Kudos' to the buyers' real estate agent for recommending the home inspection! Now the buyer can move forward with the knowledge of these conditions, and take actions to prioritize repairs and have them completed.

Harold Miller is a Camano Island, Stanwood area Washington State Licensed Home Inspector operating Miller Home Inspection throughout Snohomish, King, Skagit and nearby counties in Western Washington.

For more information see; www.millerhomeinspect.com

We rely heavily on our computers to perform daily tasks. But sometimes they need a little TLC by someone who can troubleshoot what is making them slow, causing them to crash, removing viruses and malware, install updates and patches, and more.

If you are like me, I can't afford to be without my computer for days on end, and leaving it at a computer repair shop is just another hassle I really don't want.

So it is important to know a good computer repair professional who can fix Windows based computers right over an internet connection, remotely and quickly.

The company I trust for this service is Inland Northwest Computer Services. They have repaired the computers for Miller Home Inspection on numerous occasions over the years. And when I was ready for a new laptop, they were able to help me obtain a new Dell that fit my needs.

Give them a try, I know you won't be dissapointed!

Website    http://inlandnorthwestcomputerservices.com/default.aspx

Email Contact Inwcs@hotmail.com

"Grandfathered" is a term often used when referring to something installed in a home that was in compliance with codes at the time it was installed, but no longer would meet the current code.

Like the old drum style trap in this picture.

It is grandfathered, meaning that the building code official will not be knocking on your door and telling you to remove and replace it. You don't need to do anything, regardless of the fact that these are obsolete, and not allowed in modern plumbing installations.

But does this same concept of grandfathering apply to home inspection reporting? A lot of agents that I talk to seem to think so.

I could not even keep count how many times I have reported deficiencies such as stair and deck railing pickets that exceeded 4" separation, the absence of smoke detectors, and similar concerns, to hear a response from the agent that those items are grandfathered since the home was built before the code was adopted.

Take for example the GFCI (ground fault circuit interupter) outlets that in modern homes are required in bathrooms, kitchens, exteriors, outlets, basements, and other locations where electrical and water are in close proximity.

GFCI's were implemented in phases for a variety of locations according to the NEC starting in 1971. (See chart below)

But, while the history list above is interesting, it has absolutely no bearing on how an inspector reports the absence of such devices. Grandfathering is not part of the Home Inspection laws that we are required to follow.

GFCI's are a safety device and the Washington State Law regarding home inspections (WAC 308-408c-110) require inspectors to "Verify" (iii) Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection, and (f) Report the location of any inoperative or missing GFCI devices.

Thankfully we don't have to remember the chart above and apply it to every home we inspect. Either the home has acceptable GFCI protection or it doesn't.

So now you know the rest of the story....

Miller Home Inspection

Camano Island Washington

Licensed Home Inspector #209

www.millerhomeinspect.com

DO Peason House, Stanwood WA (courtesy Wikipedia)

If you are buying a home in Stanwood, I highly recommend that you have it inspected by a Wa State Licensed Home Inspector first. A detailed, thorough inspection can do more than reveal serious defects, but can also educate you on specific maintenance needs and systems unique to the prospective home.

My name is Harold Miller and I have performed thousands of home inspections since 1997 throughout Snohomish, King, Skagit Counties. Miller Home Inspection is located on Camano Island, so I am local to the Stanwood area.

I provide;

Computerized reports on site - (No waiting for days to receive your report. PDF Reports are also e-mailed)

Digital Photos of defects- (emailed on day of inspection.)

Inspections are completed in accordance with the WA State Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

A thorough and honest assessment of your prospective home. ...I work for you, and no one else!

You can find out more about me at www.millerhomeinspect.com.

Miller Home Inspection Camano Island WA

425-501-2382

www.millerhomeinspect.com

Camano Island, WA

Camano Island is considered large with a land mass of nearly 40 square miles. During the last census in 2000 there were 13,358 residents, but it was estimated that 17,000 during the summer months. It will be interesting to see what the 2010 Census report says.

Camano Island is named after the Spanish explore Jacinto Caamaño. On the west side of the island lies Saratoga Passage. Skagit bay is to the north, Possession Sound to the south, and Port Susan to the east.

The small Davis Slough and adjacent wetlands are all that separate Camano Island from the mainland at Stanwood. The General Mark Clark Bridge makes the connection for drivers. No ferries required.

There are alot of great things to see and do on Camano Island. Enjoying the beaches, boating, kayaking, fishing, biking to name a few.

We have alot of really good local artists, like Marc Boutte'. I had the pleasure of meeting Marc about 10 years ago when he was buying a home here on Camano Island. He offered to trade some glass artwork in exchange for my home inspection services. I was reluctant, as I knew hardly anything about blown glass, and art in general.

I accepted Marcs' offer, and obtained a few nice pieces of blown glass, and in exchange I gave his new home a thorough inspection. My wife and I enjoy these, as well as several others we have purchased since.

Marc created a glass blowing shop and studio out the home, where he continues to craft some really nice blown glass pieces. You can see Marc at work during the annual Camano Island Mother's Day Art Tour. Seeing how these glass pieces are made, brings a great respect and appreciation for the art.   http://www.marcboutteglass.com/

Another neat thing to do on Camano Island is to stop at Terry's Corner where Camano Island Coffee Roasters is located. We met the owner, Jeff when he lived down the street from us, and actually was roasting coffee from a smaller building. We always enjoyed the days he was roasting because of the aroma that spread through the neighborhood. I love the smell of roasted coffee beans. http://www.camanoislandcoffee.com/

Jeff and his crew have some of the best coffee, and we are members of the coffee lovers' club. It is some good stuff.

At Terrys Corner there is a farmers market on the weekends, and the Islander is a place you can get a bite to eat.

This is really the tip of the iceberg. There is alot to do and see here. And for many of us, it is a great place to live also. If you are considering buying a home on Camano Island, I would be more than happy to help you in the process by performing a home inspection.

Miller Home Inspection

1561 Arrowhead Rd- Camano Island, WA 98282

425-501-2382

www.millerhomeinspect.com

Camano Island Home Inspections

Anyone can drive down to the big box store and buy electrical supplies, yet once they get home, there is a chance that they will install it right. But in alot of cases I see there are often serious safety hazards created by the "weekend warriors" attempt at adding electrical circuits. The results could be devestating, causing fires or possibly electrocution.

As a home inspector, I get to see alot of what I call "Bubba & Skeeta" altered wiring. No permits; Plenty of double taps; No understanding of polarity, bonding, grounding, floating neutrals, amps, volts, watts, load side vs line side.......and lots and lots of "electrical tape"

There are times when I see some very dangerous conditions in homes and just shake my head. Like live wires sticking out of walls, where children can touch them, when they are with their parents previewing the home.

The reality is that are some folks that just don't respect and comprehend electrical systems. For this reason it is good to have a licensed home inspector do a thorough home inspection, which can often reveal such concerns.

Miller Home Inspection

Camano Island Home Inspector

www.millerhomeinspect.com

I don't know what compelled manufactured home builders to install these "water intrusion devices", .....but unfortunately they did. In fact., if I am going to find a leaking skylight it is often this design.

The problem is they run a bead of sealant around the back, and slap it into place. Sealants provide a few years of life (maybe) and then the water finds its' way in. Some of these will have tar slathered around the perimeter in an attempt to stop the water entry, but in this case they just allowed it to leak. Just as well, because the tar would not help much.

Poorly designed bubble skylight.                                         An example of some of the water stains.

THE RIGHT WAY; A properly designed curb mounted skylight

Above is the right way to install a skylight. The unit is elevated on what is called a curb, with step flashings along each side, a head flashing at the top, and an apron flashing along the bottom. I hardly ever find leaks at this style of skylight.

Miller Home Inspection

www.millerhomeinspect.com

Camano Island Home Inspector

Are you looking for an Everett, Wa Home Inspector? Look no further.

Hi my name is Harold Miller, owner and operator of Miller Home Inspection since 1997. I started my home inspection business in Everett, WA and have performed thousands of home inspections throughout the Puget Sound Region. I travel to places like Seattle, Everett, Mt Vernon, and Bellingham.

I really enjoy providing the critical information needed by buyers in evaluation of the condition of a prospective home. I provide fast, friendly service. I take pride in providing a thorough inspection for my clients.

Computerized Inspection reports are provided the same day as the inspection. Some other firms make you wait a day or two. I also take digital photos, that help illustrate deficiencies observed during the inspection.

Please take a moment to see my website at; www.millerhomeinspect.com

To schedule an appointment, or if you have any questions, feel free to call me at 425-501-2382

Licensed Home Inspector #209

Looking for a local home inspector on Camano Island? Look no further.

Hi my name is Harold Miller, and I have owned and operated Miller Home Inspection since 1997. Camano Island has been our home for a decade, and I always look forward to helping home buyers in the process of purchasing their new home. The inspection will provide you with the critical details about the condition of your prospective home purchase.

I take pride in doing a thorough inspection and strive to exceed my clients expectations on each, and every home inspection.

My clients and their agents are often surprised that the inspection report is completed and printed out at the conclusion of the inspection. Some firms make you wait a day or two for the results.

I also take alot of digital photos during the course of the home inspection. These photos are used to illustrate deficiencies found during the home inspection. I present a slideshow at the conclusion of the inspection which helps bring understanding to the deficiencies reported.

I have performed thousands of home inspections throughout the Puget Sound Region including areas like Seattle, Everett, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham. But most of all I enjoy inspecting right here on Camano Island.

If you are looking for an experienced and thorough inspector to evaluate the condition of your new home. Then you are at the right place!

Please take a look at my website; www.millerhomeinspect.com

Camano Island link; http://millerhomeinspect.com/CamanoIsland.aspx

If you would like more information, or to schedule an inspection. Please call me at 425-501-2382

Licensed Home Inspector #209

Miller Home Inspection Inc, 1561 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island, Wa 98282 425-501-2382

Kick out flashings are important in diverting roof water from an adjacent exterior wall system. Kick out flashings are normally installed at the lower end of the step flashing run. These flashings divert water into the gutter system. Failure to repair may be conducive for water damage, and fungal wood rot decay, in exterior siding and structural elements.

Siding damage under a roof to wall intersection missing this critical flashing.

This is a common flaw I see routinely, and sometimes it results in serious damage.

A great website detailing this can be found here;   http://www.thehomeinspector.com/Clients/Newsletter/Kickout/Kickout.html

Make sure and have your home inspected by a professional home inspector.

Harold Miller

Everett, Seattle, Mt Vernon area inspector

Licensed Home Inspector #209

Licensed Structural Pest Inspector #58788