Magnum Property Inspection

The New Year will bring Better Service for our Clients

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:43:29 -0800

We are happy to announce the newly aquired T400 Thermal Imaging camera to Clients. We have been using two of the B-Cams for the last three years. This new camera has a resoloution 8 times better then the B Cam, B40, B50, B60 cameras. We now have in our TI service department three cameras and three operators that are qualified and certified thermographers.

We can now truly diagnose to a greater detail and offer even more information to our clients in the Utilities field, and building field. We can see in greater detail moisture issues, missing or compressed insulation, electrical issues with a better image our specialists can now offer a much better detail of what is happening within the building envelope.

We have been on many jobs where more information and detail would have made pin pointing the issue that much easier. We now can pin point HVAC leaks with greater accuracy and also have better predictive maintenance information. This will enable our IAQ and Mold inspections greatly as we can now inspect for humidity levels and moisture levels giving us greater detail for reports.

So to all current clients I say happy new year and thanks to you we are able to bring better service and more information to you, and to new clients I say welcome to our family and have a happy New year.

We also will be expanding our service area as well to include Brockville, Kingston, Belleville, Trenton, Cobourg, greater Toronto Area and North to Ottawa and back along hwy 7 to Peterborough and all towns in between. This will encompass the Eastern Ontario area, and we are excited to have the ability to service more people.

Call us or email to scheduale your appointment

5 things a cell phone can do

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:24:45 -0800

I recieved this in the mail, not sure who the original author is, it does say to pass it along to others.

5 Things You Never Knew Your Cell Phone Could Do

For all the folks with cell phones. (This should be printed and kept in your car, purse, and wallet. Good information to have with you.)

There are a few things that can be done in times of grave emergencies.

Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival.

Check out the things that you can do with it:

FIRST
Emergency

The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an Emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly, this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out.

SECOND
Have you locked your keys in the car?

Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone:

If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).

Editor's Note : It works fine! We tried it out and it unlocked our car over a cell phone!'

THIRD
Hidden Battery Power

Imagine your cell battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370#. Your cell phone will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell phone next time.

FOURTH
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?

To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following Digits on your phone: *#06#. A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.

When your phone get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.

And Finally....

FIFTH
Free Directory Service for Cells

Cell phone companies are charging us $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 information calls when they don't have to. Most of us do not carry a telephone directory in our vehicle, which makes this situation even more of a problem. When you need to use the 411 information option, simply dial: (800)FREE411, or (800) 373-3411 without incurring any charge at all. Program this into your cell phone now. This is sponsored by McDonalds.

Seller Inspection, Advantages you need to know

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 18:18:34 -0800

The Seller then can disclose areas of concern to the inspector to be verified, and areas not known to the seller can be pointed out. Upon completion the seller then has a report that shows the current homes condition. If repairs or maintenance items are in need, the seller can then do these, increasing the overall total value of the home, This pre-listing inspection can then be added to the disclosure and will make buyer less apprehensive as an inspection has been done.

Buyers should conduct their own inspection to verify findings and that where noted repairs have been completed by the seller. This in turn removes the 11th hour surprise negotiation or possible suicide from the home. In keeping things up front the real estate can then make a proper market evaluation if sellers do not wish to make noted repairs, they can then be properly advised and the home will reflect this in it price.

This keeps sellers from getting mad at Real estate agents for home reductions while on the market. Buyers can then make informed decision as to whether they want to take on potential noted problem and the price has been marked down already to reflect the quoted cost of repairs, thus removing their 11th hour negotiation ability.

Advantages to the seller:

The seller can choose a certified inspector rather than be at the mercy of the buyer's choice of inspector.
The seller can schedule the inspections at the seller's convenience.
It might alert the seller of any items of immediate personal concern, such as mold, radon gas (if testing requested) or deficiency.
The seller can assist the inspector during the inspection, something normally not done during a buyer's inspection.
The seller can have the inspector correct any misstatements in the inspection report before it is generated.
The report can help the seller realistically price the home if problems exist.
The report can help the seller substantiate a higher asking price if problems don't exist or have been corrected.
A seller inspection reveals problems ahead of time which:
- might make the home show better.
- gives the seller time to make repairs and shop for competitive contractors.
- permits the seller to attach repair estimates or paid invoices to the inspection report.
- removes over-inflated buyer procured estimates from the negotiation table.
The report might alert the seller to any immediate safety issues found, before agents and visitors tour the home.
The report provides a third-party, unbiased opinion to offer to potential buyers.
A seller inspection permits a clean home inspection report to be used as a marketing tool.
A seller inspection is the ultimate gesture in forthrightness on the part of the seller.
The report might relieve a prospective buyer's unfounded suspicions, before they walk away.
A seller inspection lightens negotiations and 11th-hour renegotiations.
The report might encourage the buyer to waive the inspection contingency.
The deal is less likely to fall apart the way they often do when a buyer's inspection unexpectedly reveals a problem, last minute.
The report provides full-disclosure protection from future legal claims

Advantages to the real estate agent:

Agents can recommend certified inspectors as opposed to being at the mercy of buyer's choices in inspectors.
Sellers can schedule the inspections at seller's convenience with little effort on the part of agents.
Sellers can assist inspectors during the inspections, something normally not done during buyer's inspections.
Sellers can have inspectors correct any misstatements in the reports before they are generated.
Reports help sellers see their homes through the eyes of a critical, third-party, thus making sellers more realistic about asking price.
Agents are alerted to any immediate safety issues found, before other agents and potential buyers tour the home.
Repairs made ahead of time might make homes show better.
The reports provide third-party, unbiased opinions to offer to potential buyers.
Clean reports can be used as marketing tools to help sell the homes.
Reports might relieve prospective buyer's unfounded suspicions, before they walk away.
Seller inspections eliminate buyer's remorse that sometimes occurs just after an inspection.
Seller inspections reduce the need for negotiations and 11th-hour renegotiations.
Seller inspections relieve the agent of having to hurriedly procure repair estimates or schedule repairs.
The reports might encourage buyers to waive their inspection contingencies.
Deals are less likely to fall apart the way they often do when buyer's inspections unexpectedly reveal problems, last minute.
Reports provide full-disclosure protection from future legal claims.

Advantages to the home buyer:

The inspection is done already.
The inspection is paid for by the seller.
The report provides a more accurate, third-party view of the condition of the home prior to making an offer.
A seller inspection eliminates surprise defects.
Problems are corrected or at least acknowledged prior to making an offer on the home.
A seller inspection reduces the need for negotiations and 11th-hour renegotiations.
The report might assist in acquiring financing.
A seller inspection allows the buyer to sweeten the offer without increasing the offering price by waiving inspections.
If Buyer wants a second opinion he can have his own inspection done at his expense for peace of mind.

Advantages to the home inspector:

Seller inspections allow the inspector to catch inspection jobs upstream, ahead of real estate transactions and the competition.
Seller inspections are easier to schedule and are not under the time constraints of sales agreement's inspection contingencies.
Working for sellers is typically less stressful than working for buyers about to make the purchase of their lifetimes.
Sellers can alert the inspector to problems that should be included in the report, answer questions about their homes, and provide seller's disclosure statements.
Repairs of problems found during seller inspections often necessitate the need for re-inspections by the inspector.
Seller inspections put a sample copy of the inspector's product, the report, in the hands of many potential buyers who will need a local inspector soon.
Seller inspections put a sample copy of the inspector's product, the report, in the hands of many local buyer's agents that tour the home.
The inspector is credited, in part, with the smoothness of the real estate transaction by buyer, seller and agents on both sides.
The liability of the inspector is reduced by putting more time between the date of the inspection and the move-in date of the buyers.
The liability of the inspector is reduced because the inspector's clients are not buying the properties inspected, but rather moving out of them.
The buyer might insist on hiring the seller's inspector to produce a fresh report since the seller's inspector is already familiar with the home.
Seller inspections provide inspectors opportunities to showoff their services to listing agents.
Seller inspections provide examples to the listing agent of each home, which might encourage those agents to have other listings pre-inspected by the inspector.
Most sellers are local buyers and so many sellers hire the inspector again to inspect the homes they are moving to.

Winter is around the corner are you prepared ?

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:08:42 -0700

This is the month where we really need to make sure that the outside is in order for the coming cold months.

Take the time over the next few weekends and ensure that you have gone through the steps of securing and storing your items. Make sure your BBQ is covered and in an out of the way place on the deck or better yet in the tool shed or garage.

Lawn chairs tables, umbrellas packed and covered to prevent damage.

Pool professionally closed, water levels are right, cover secure and ready for the freeze, slide and board in the pool shed, filters, chemical injectors and basket drained.

Gutters cleaned, clear and free from debris, downspout extenders on passing water at least six feet from the foundation, if you have big O drainage is the discharge open and clear from blockage.

Trees cutback from the structure, rosebushes dug up and laying down and buried to protect them for the winter, have you pulled the dead annuals as well.

If your putting up christmas lights have you pre thought how the power cords need to be placed, install a simple track system to prevent accidents and protect the extension cords.

Begin stocking up on some sand or " Icemelt" make ready some bins at the front and back door, maybe one along the driveway.

Get your snowblower tuned up before the rush, call the fella down the road to plow out your driveway and pay for the year in advance for a good savings. Is the teen next door still shovelling or blowing the driveway? A call will answer that for you.

If your in an area that can and has in the past lost power for any length of time PLEASE stock up on those extra needed items remember to make sure you have atleast 72 hours worth for all that will and could be in your home over the winter months. If you are hosting christmas dinner and expect 15 people, if bad weather and power loos happen you can accomadate everyone and keep stress and tension to a minimum.

Candles one per person, for every 8 hours, some bottled water 1 gallon per person per day ( if your on a well ) then you need more water in storage.

Fire up the coleman stove and ensure it is working, extra fuel would be a good idea.

A menu of what can be stored and is still good to eat for the duration, a few jiffy pop popcorn plates will really go along way with kids and adults alike.

spare batteries for the portable DVD machine to watch movies for kids and help pass time. The portable radio does it still work.

flashlights with spare bulbs and batteries ( not the DVD's batteries)

A backpack with provisions in case some one needs to leave the house to get help they can take some and not effect the remainder.

Most important is have a good first aid kit and some one who has been trained in emergenct first aid and CPR.

Oil lanterns, are an upgrade to candles and can burn for days before refilling a few spread out through the house will have them already in proper placement.

Maybe do a one night lights off and dry run the evening and make sure you and your family know the " Drill" so if and when it happens everyone has thier assigned tasks and jobs and can just do and get what is needed, if company is over tis will really prevent any panic from guests as they will quickly see you all know what to do and where to get the required items.

If your inclined to do so, make a safety pack for each vechicle as well.

Above all be safe this winter and enjoy all that comes with the snow.

What do you want in an Inspector

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:11:35 -0700

Easy question to ask but have you really answered it.

Agents say they want whats best for thier clients, they advertise they will go to the end of the world for them, they will be there every step of the way during the purchase process, but why as an agent do you get some of the known soft Inspectors.

Or why do you not reccommend the known thorough inspectors, the inspectors that you know will do a proper inspection, follow the SOP in which we are required to, have the E&O Insurance and the tools to do the Inspection, also the cutting edge tools for an even more indepth inspection.

The question is in a nut shell would you as an agent advise your client to walk from a house if you knew that the burden of getting in would cause them to loose the house a few years down the road. Inspections and Inspectors are in a way governed by the agents, They basically offer up three names to their client and are the ones picking the three names. If the agent knows that you (the inspector) will always find issues as any good inspector should be finding with every house because there just not built to be perfect.

If they were Mike Holmes would be out of a job, and pounding the pavement like every other contractor in Ontario. But given the fact that mistakes are made in construction, building code inspections, things get missed and in the end are found with the Property Inspector being the bad guy when in fact were only the messenger.

So how do we get and keep a good relationship with the real estate agents to keep working and get referrals and still bring to our clients which were kindly reffered from the agent the truth about the house.

So the purchaser has the proper information to make a decision if the house can be affordably purchased and repaired if need be, where if they walk from that deal the agent does not get so upset that they then drop that inspector, instead of saying ok lets find you a better house that will meet your needs and is in better condition or priced at the right amount to allow for the needed repairs.

Thanks for reading the long winded post any suggestion or comments are welcomed I am always looking for a way to better myself and bring forth a professional inspection to my clients and also for the agents involved so everyone is aware of what is going on.

Seventeen ways to save energy

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:05:54 -0700

Ask your power company if they provide home energy audits. If they do, having one done every other year can determine updated methods for saving energy.
Install or upgrade the weather-stripping around all doors to the exterior, including that leading to the garage.
Tired of the drip-drip-drip from your faucet? Have it fixed. One drip every second can use 20 kilowatts of energy each month.
Get rid of those incandescent light bulbs! Not only do they use more electricity, but they put out more heat, resulting in higher cooling costs for your home. Switch to the compact fluorescent bulbs. In spite of their higher initial cost, they are more energy-efficient, last for years instead of months, consume little power, and generate little heat.
Add insulation or replace outdated insulation in your attic so that you have at least an insulation rating of R-21. The higher the R value, the better, so get the best you can afford at the time.
Have a programmable thermostat installed for your heating and cooling system, especially if your home is vacant most of the day. Set it to turn off a half hour before everyone leaves and to come on a half hour before anyone arrives home.
Adjust your heating and cooling thermostat to run two degrees warmer in the cooling mode and two degrees cooler in the heating mode.
Keep your thermostat at a comfortable temperature and wait rather than turning it up and down constantly. Constantly adjusting the thermostat can dramatically waste energy and increase your heating and cooling costs.
Make sure your water heater thermostat is set at the manufacturer's recommended setting. Setting it hotter wastes energy by keeping the water hot when no one is using it.
When personal computers first hit the market, many computer experts advised leaving the computer on in order to save wear and tear on the hard disk. That's not necessary with today's computer. You can either turn it off when you're not using it or use the energy-saving "sleep," "hibernate," or "standby" mode.
Seal energy leaks (this is where the energy audit in Item 1 can really help). Caulk over cracks and small holes around windows and exterior walls. Look carefully around plumbing pipes, telephone wires, dryer vents, sink and bathtub drains, and under countertops for holes and gaps and have them sealed as well.
Buy major appliances that wear the "Energy Star" sticker. Energy Star appliances meet or exceed standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Buy a front-loading washing machine. They use 50 percent less energy and one-third less water, and they remove far more water in the rinse and spin cycles, translating into big savings in dryer time.
Check for rebates whenever you install energy-saving equipment such as dishwashers and washing machines.
Ask your power company if they have any special energy-saving programs. Some programs shut down electric appliances for short periods of time during peak usage hours, hardly noticeable at the time but definitely noticeable when you get your utility bill.
Select roofing materials based on energy efficiency rather than simply on how the roof will look. Light-colored roofs and galvanized metal or cement tile roofs do the best job of reflecting the sun and cool more quickly at night.
Landscape wisely to take advantage of winter sun for heating and summer shade for cooling.

Energy savings

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:01:47 -0700

Energy savings: Getting the most for your money

There are many things that you can do in your home to help save energy, including those listed here.

Replace incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs cost more initially but last a lot longer.
Make sure your doors and windows fit tightly and have weather stripping, including the door to the garage.
Fix faucet leaks, especially hot water leaks, and if the leak is streaming instead of dripping.
Lower the thermostats on your water heater and heating system, and increase it on your cooling system. For every degree of change, you can decrease your electricity bill by about 2%. Don't lower your water heater below the manufacturer's recommended setting, though, which is usually marked on the thermostat or shown in the user's guide.
Have a home energy audit done every couple of years. Many utility companies do these free.
With the audit in hand, you'll know exactly what you can do to save money on your utility bills.
Check your air filter monthly and clean or replace it if it is dirty. Dirty filters cause your heating and cooling system to work overtime, thereby wasting energy.
Install landscaping that does more than just look good. The right mix of trees and shrubs can lower your utility bills by blocking winter winds or summer sun. Check with your local nursery for guidance on selecting appropriate vegetation.
If you're buying a new appliance, look for the "Energy Star," which indicates that the appliance meets standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Proper roofing material and adequate insulation (don't forget the attic) are essential to saving money. While building codes typically dictate the minimum amount of insulation, a home owner replacing a roof may choose a roof based on looks rather than energy efficiency. A study by Florida Power & Light proved what Southerners have known for generations: light-colored roofs do the best job of reflecting the sun. The study showed that the best type of roofing material for Sunbelt homes is white, galvanized metal. It actually came in a very close second to cement tile roofing in its ability to reflect the sun's heat, but won overall because of its "superior ability to cool quickly at night."

Whether the energy-saving changes you're prepared to make are big-ticket items (such as a roof, central heating and cooling, or an appliance), or inexpensive items such as changing light bulbs or getting a room heating or cooling system, be sure to check with your utility company for rebates. You might be surprised to see how rewarding energy efficiency can be in terms of savings and in terms of rebates from your utility company.

If you have any questions, simply contact me for help.

647 217 8473

Spamming and ruining a good thing

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 06:48:10 -0700

As of late I have fallen the victim of a person who has nothing better then to harrass and post lude and crude items on my blog.

This sort of stuff I had assumed was left back in grade school and was a kids only thing. For the moment I will not poet the offenders name but I can say his psyudoneme is Joe Public.

Once I can get proof of who I believe to be behind it I will post his name for the public to see.

There was one person who is famous for his new names and constant BS posting on another board and I belive this to be that person.

What amazes me is this person whom claims to be so busy has time to not only post BS here but on half a dozen other home inspectors blogs and a very regular basis. I am very busy working and barely have time to post my own items let alone BS on my or others. He was removed from that board for ethics violation and continous rude and repulsive posting.

I hope for this person that life gets better he gets busy and can move on, untill then I am now beif forced to disable comments as I can not afford the time to police my blog at his will.

I wish the best to all and hope you do not fall prey to this individual.

Maybe AR will implement wher comments have to be moderated before being viewed, and this will allow us to prevent such rude and worthless comments being seen.

The Canada Revenue Agency warns Canadians of mail scam

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 23:14:36 -0700

Tax Alert

The Canada Revenue Agency warns Canadians of mail scam

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is warning taxpayers to beware of a recent scam where some Canadians are receiving a letter fraudulently identified as coming from the CRA and asking for personal information. The letter is not from the CRA. A PDF version of the letter is available on the CRA Web site at www.cra.gc.ca/alert.

The letter claims that there is "insufficient information" for the individual's tax return and that in order to receive any "claims," they will have to update their records. The letter attaches a form specifically requesting the individual's personal information in writing, via fax or email, including information on bank accounts and passports. This letter is not from the CRA and Canadians should not provide their personal information to the sender.

All taxpayers should be vigilant when divulging any confidential information to third parties. The CRA has well established practices to protect the confidentiality of taxpayers' information.

The CRA has notified the proper law enforcement authorities of this scam.

For information about this and other similar scams, or to report deceptive telemarketing activity, visit www.phonebusters.com, send an email to info@phonebusters.com, or call 1-888-495-8501.

This document is also available for download in PDF format.

To get notification by email when news releases, fact sheets, tax tips, and tax alerts are added to our Web site, subscribe to our electronic mailing list. You can also subscribe to the Media room RSS feed.

For media information

Mold are you helping or hindering

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 10:14:07 -0700

Over the last few months I have been doing more mold inspections and in almost every case some of the problems were the owners themselves.

High humidity levels really are the problem but owners not taking the proper steps to prevent mold.

In higher then normal humidity it would be prudent to spend a few dollars and purchase a dehumidifier, spluge and get the digital one, where you are able to set it to a percentage level and then with proper drainage in to a sink or floor drain can basically turn it on, set it to 40% and forget about it.

If the area you have is larger than what the dehumidifier is capable of doing then BUY the second one, please do not expect a machine rated for 900 sqft to properly control humidity in a 1200 sqft basement. at full capacity it can only deal with 2/3's and humidity levels will drop but not enough.

This will not stop mold from forming or possibly taking hold in the basement.

Do your self a favour and ensure the area to be covered is covered by the proper amount of dehumidifiers to clear and retain the specified level of humidity, in the long run the supposed added expense will be a mere pittance if remeadation is required.

Just my thought for the day, I hope yall are having a fantastic summer and enjoy the reamainder

Billy

Infra Red Thermal Camera

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sun, 04 May 2008 12:43:11 -0700

Well I finally went out last month and bought myself the B cam SD and I'll tell you it was the best thing I have added to my tool belt in the last year.

This camera just opens up a whole new aspect to Inspection Services, it allows me to see things that I could or would have missed.

The moisture scan coupled with IAQ testing is just an unbeatable combination, I can now almost put the sampler right beside the suspected probmatic areas for what I believe to be bang on readings.

This can and will save clients money as now I can even more assuredly say if IAQ samples are required or a more intensive scan and monitor approach is required. Yhis allows me to keep clients more in tune with whats going on and also more calm to the posible presence of mold.

I am so Impressed with what I have been able to do so far, and it just gets better.

Those of you using one I would really like to hear how your using it for Structue,Insulation, Energy Audits, Electrical and what ever else.

Thanks more to come as I do more scans

Welcome the New Year

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 15:30:06 -0800

Welcome to the new year,

Resolutions abound, how many do you make and how many did you keep.

Well for me the main was to quit smoking and I started to quit back in November, Happily I am now two months smoke free and on my way to becoming a "Born Again Breather".

The weight will be lost in the summer months again as quitting has added a few pounds that was expected, spring weight training will be even more necessary now.

I hear people making lots of resolutions and commiments to loose weight, quit smoking, work harder, to better in business, have a better life, even be nicer,

But if you are one of those that has three or more all going at the same time I am sorry to say your most likley doomed to fail.

Do them one at a time, and quarterly if you have to, remember the year just started, so start with what is paramount and work through the resolution

October home maintenance tips

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:18:39 -0700

Septic Tank pump out - prior to the freeze this may be the perfect time to access this and get it cleaned out

If you live in a windy section or have possible snow build up areas on your property, you may want to consider erecting snow fences to direct the snow to less harmful areas around your home.

clean leaves from the gutters and vallys from the roof and thoses areas that seem to collect debris, this will prevent the possibility of premature freeze and possible water or ice damage in the future. NOTE* If you are not comfortable in walking your roof, PLEASE hire a contractor or quilified handyman to do this for you, Saftey first.

Walk around your home and look at joints and discharge from the evestroughs, now is a good time to put those extenders in the discharge pionts and help keep water from building up along the home.

I you own a pool now would be the time to have it properly shut down and serviced for the winter.

Is the back yard ready for winter, BBQ put away and covered, lawn and garden tools stored in the shed or garage for the winter months, have you taken a few moments to re arrange the garage for the car to fit in.

Have you picked up a few sand bags for ice or ice melter, do you still have a few buckets that can be placed along walkways and steps to ensure proper distribution.

for those in the south, do you have the mouse bait out in safe places from pets and children, hose bib covers should be hanging next to bib for easy install when required. Keep a look out for snakes and spiders as they will be looking to move to a warmer place, scorpions will also be on the move as well.

October week two tips

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 11:46:22 -0700

Welcome I hope you are finding these tips helpfull to some, and reminders to others. Normally it would be cooler and with the chinook we seem to be having it may be prudent to get to some of these when the cold snap hits.

Protect from freezing

Drain all outdoor hose bibs, empty hoses of water coil and hang in storage shed

cover the outside air conditioner units wall and floor models,

remove screen doors and store away for the winter

remove screens from the inside of casement windows to allow air from the heating system to keep condisation of glass windows

Remove screens from other windows and store for the winter

Install winter storm windows

Well this should keep a few busy the next couple days...

till the next weeks tips have a great thanksgiving for those Canadians and for my American friends please enjoy Columbus Day. May your blessings be an abundance...

Closing the cottage or summer house for winter

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:03:30 -0700

Water System

1. Shut off water systems by turning off the pump or shutting the valve if on city water. Drain the pressure
tank.

2. Open all faucets.

3. Break a union close to the valve so water will drain out clear to the shut-off valve.

4. Drain pump and run a second or two to be sure all water is out of lines from the pump.

5. Flush toilets and dip all water out of the flush tank.

6. Be sure to drain flexible spray hoses in showers and sinks.

7. Drain water softeners so water will drain back from soft water pipes and controls. Brine tank will probably
not freeze.

8. Drain water heaters.

Heating Systems

Electric heating systems require no maintenance other than shutting off the power to the heating units.

Hot air heating systems:

1. Turn off burner emergency switch which is often located at the top of the stairs.

2. Drain humidifier which is usually located on the furnace.

Forced hot water and steam systems: Drain all water in the system unless the liquid contains anti-freeze. It
is wise to have this type of system drained by a plumber unless you are well-informed on the procedures necessary.

Winterize your summer home as you do your winter home. To help conserve energy when the home is not
occupied, install a low-heat thermostat. By doing this your home could be maintained at abut 40 F. without a
freeze-up, rather than at 55 F. which is the lowest temperature at which most thermostats can be set.

Washer and dishwasher
Water left in hoses and internal components can cause damage when it freezes.

Shut off water supply to clothes washer. Remove and drain inlet hoses. Clear water valve by setting timer
for fill cycle. Press warm water button and run machine a few seconds. Drain water from drain hose. Disconnect
electrical supply.

For a dishwasher, remove inlet and outlet connection to the valve. Operate valve to remove any water. Remove
drain hose from the pump and drain. Disconnect electrical supply.

It is also a good idea to clean the equipment and to protect the finish with a coat of appliance polish.

Stored items

1. Remove food, cosmetics, or medicine containers that contain liquid that would freeze from shelves.

2. Food in paper or plastic containers should be put in large metal containers to protect from mice or other
rodents.

3. Remove or hide articles in the house that can be sold and converted to cash such as guns, radios, TV sets, tools
or other valuables.

Sewage system

1. Force as much water as possible out of traps with a plunger.

2. Add antifreeze to each trap so you have at least a 50% solution of ethylene - glycol and water.
3. Check for traps in these locations: kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, bathtub and/or shower drains, toilets,
washtubs, floor drains and maybe a sump pump.

Keep out animals

1. Cover chimneys tightly so that raccoons cannot enter the house, or birds fall down the chimney.

2. Stop up any places in the foundation or around the eaves where squirrels, chipmunks, mice or other small
animals can enter.

October -Maintenance Tips-

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 10:49:53 -0700

Hi all, had some time on my hands this morning and thought this would be a great time to offer up some maintenance ideas for October

This week you need to get to the :

Furnace filters replace or clean them up

Range hood filter in Kitchen Rinse with warm soapy water and air dry

Check belts in furnace adjust or replace as needed

Clean the blades on furnace fan if needed ( *** Turn power off while doing this *** )

Check the weather caulking around doors and windows inside upgrade where needed, stopping these small draft spots will pay dividends in heating costs

OK this should give you something to do over the weekend and help get your home ready for the cold season coming.

All the best

This Months Maintenance Tips

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 14:08:08 -0700

With the fall now being here and the leaves in colour change you may want to get started on your fall maintenance, here's a few items to help get you started off on the right foot.

Examine the siding on the home, is there water penetration, painting or touchups needed, what about just a good powerwash. Have you called the furnace company in for a tuneup of the furnace ( atleast every two years), replaced the filter ( monthly if allergies are present)

Fire place and wood burning stoves need chimney cleaned and inspected yearly.

Before topping the oil tank off make sure you have a look at it, is it leaking, are there stains on the concrete pad? If so make repairs before the oil company comes out and RED FLAGS your tank or furnace and you are void of any oil deliverys till it is fixed. If you have a gas furnace is the pilot light on, did you shutt off the gas last spring, maybe a tune up is in order, are the vents clear from shrubs and growth at the side of the house.

If you have baseboard heaters run the vacuum over the vents this time to remove dust and debris, helps keep that burning smell away when you turn them on again for the first time this year

Check your hot water tank for leaks, rust, is the TPR discharge line clear at the bottom, if you have a boiler system now would be a good time to put a few drops of oil in the lubrication ports.

Any questions please email or call, till next months tips, be safe and secure in your home.

Ten Tips to speed up your home inspection

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:09:30 -0700

Sellers can speed their home inspection by following these suggestions. The inspection will go smoother, with fewer concerns to delay closing and lets the inspector make positive comments on the home while doing the inspection.

1) Confirm that water, electric and gas service are on, with gas pilot lights burning. This happens a few times, if the house is vacant you really need to make sure it's all on, Professional inspectors that follow a standards of practice will NOT light pilot lights and will almost always differ the unit to be checked by a specialist for repair or replacement, If I can't check it how do you expect me to say it works, this makes buyers nervous and we all don't that.

2) Ensure pets won't hinder the inspection. Ideally, they should be removed from premises or secured outside in a caged area, not roaming free. Tell your agent about any pets at home so they can pass on the message to the inspector, I wear a unoform and pooches for some reason just seem to dislike uniforms, ask your postal worker.

3) This is such an easy fix but sellers get hit with this frequently. Replace burned out bulbs to avoid a "Light is inoperable" report that may suggest an electrical problem. Also if you have a light swith that controls a reciptical (plug ) please leave a yellow pot it note stating which plug it turns on and off, this way i put in the tester and watch it glow on and off. If it happens to be one of the plugs i test and it does not glow, it could get written up as Non Working plug in ??? room, have qualified contractor investigate.

4) Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries.

5) Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters. They should fit securely, another post it note on the side of th unit stating the date you switched the filter will also show you keep up with maintenance, another good thing I would point out to my client during the inspection.

6) Remove stored items, debris and wood from Exterior foundation. These may be cited as "conducive conditions" for termites or wood destroying insects. If it's junk call an inlaw/friend with a trailer and haul it to the dump out of sight, out of the report.

7) Remove items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electric service panels, water heaters, attics and crawl spaces. I kow you are moving and I know you are packing, but please try to keep the systems clear and clutter free, if at all possible put the items into storage, allow inspector access to see the walls and foundation, remember if we can see it we can inspect it, if the walls have boxes lined up along them it could get put in as "Unaccesable, unable to inspect" we snap a picture to verify this and move on

8) Unlock areas the inspector must access - attic doors or hatches, electric service panels, closets, fence gates and crawl spaces. Make sure the attic hatch can be opened and is not painted shut, if it is some inspectors will not " Break the paint seal" to access the attic and state attic unaccesable opening painted shut. This is not good at all, now the rafters and underside of the roof do not get inspected, insulation can't be verfied venting is also not verfiable, buyers will cringe when these places do not get inspected.

9) Trim tree limbs to 10' from the roof and shrubs atleast 12" from the house to allow access. If you have overhead power trim the branches away from there as well

10) Attend to loose, broken or missing items like doorknobs, locks and latches, window cranks, windowpanes, screens and locks; gutters, downspouts and chimney caps.

Checking these areas before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property. Your real estate agent will thank you and the inspection will be much smoother, we note these to the client as we do the inspection. This shows maintenance concern on you the seller and makes the potential buyer feel better about thier new home!

Pre-Listing Inspections

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 12:05:02 -0700

Seller inspections (sometimes referred to as pre-listing inspections) are becoming more popular because they virtually eliminate all the pitfalls and hassles associated with waiting to do the inspections until a buyer is found. The Seller then can disclose areas of concern to the inspector to be verified, and areas not knowen to the seller can be pointed out. Upon completion the seller then has a report that shows the current homes condition. If repairs or maintemance items are in need, the seller can then do these, increasing the overall total value of the home, This pre-listing inspection can then be added to the disclosure and will make buyer less apprehensive as an inspection has been done. Buyers should conduct their own inspection to verify findings and that where noted repairs have been completed by the seller. This in turn removes the 11th hour surprise negoiation or possible suicide from the home. In keeping things up front the realestate can then make a proper market evaluation if sellers do not wish to make noted repairs, they can then be properly advised and the home will reflect this in it price. This keeps sellers from getting mad at Realestate agents for home reductions while on the market. Buyers can then make informed decision as to whether they want to take on potential noted problem and the price has been marked down already to reflect the quoted cost of repairs, thus removing their 11th hour negoiation ability.

Below are listed items from the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors NACHI

Advantages to the home inspector:

Seller inspections allow the inspector to catch inspection jobs upstream, ahead of real estate transactions and the competition.
Seller inspections are easier to schedule and are not under the time constraints of sales agreement's inspection contingencies.
Working for sellers is typically less stressful than working for buyers about to make the purchase of their lifetimes.
Sellers can alert the inspector to problems that should be included in the report, answer questions about their homes, and provide seller's disclosure statements.
Repairs of problems found during seller inspections often necessitate the need for re-inspections by the inspector.
Seller inspections put a sample copy of the inspector's product, the report, in the hands of many potential buyers who will need a local inspector soon.
Seller inspections put a sample copy of the inspector's product, the report, in the hands of many local buyer's agents that tour the home.
The inspector is credited, in part, with the smoothness of the real estate transaction by buyer, seller and agents on both sides.
The liability of the inspector is reduced by putting more time between the date of the inspection and the move-in date of the buyers.
The liability of the inspector is reduced because the inspector's clients are not buying the properties inspected, but rather moving out of them.
The buyer might insist on hiring the seller's inspector to produce a fresh report since the seller's inspector is already familiar with the home.
Seller inspections provide inspectors opportunities to showoff their services to listing agents.
Seller inspections provide examples to the listing agent of each home, which might encourage those agents to have other listings pre-inspected by the inspector.
Most sellers are local buyers and so many sellers hire the inspector again to inspect the homes they are moving to.

Advantages to the seller:

The seller can choose a certified NACHI inspector rather than be at the mercy of the buyer's choice of inspector.
The seller can schedule the inspections at the seller's convenience.
It might alert the seller of any items of immediate personal concern, such as radon gas or active termite infestation.
The seller can assist the inspector during the inspection, something normally not done during a buyer's inspection.
The seller can have the inspector correct any misstatements in the inspection report before it is generated.
The report can help the seller realistically price the home if problems exist.
The report can help the seller substantiate a higher asking price if problems don't exist or have been corrected.
A seller inspection reveals problems ahead of time which:
- might make the home show better.
- gives the seller time to make repairs and shop for competitive contractors.
- permits the seller to attach repair estimates or paid invoices to the inspection report.
- removes over-inflated buyer procured estimates from the negotiation table.
The report might alert the seller to any immediate safety issues found, before agents and visitors tour the home.
The report provides a third-party, unbiased opinion to offer to potential buyers.
A seller inspection permits a clean home inspection report to be used as a marketing tool.
A seller inspection is the ultimate gesture in forthrightness on the part of the seller.
The report might relieve a prospective buyer's unfounded suspicions, before they walk away.
A seller inspection lightens negotiations and 11th-hour renegotiations.
The report might encourage the buyer to waive the inspection contingency.
The deal is less likely to fall apart the way they often do when a buyer's inspection unexpectedly reveals a problem, last minute.
The report provides full-disclosure protection from future legal claims.

Advantages to the real estate agent:

Agents can recommend certified NACHI inspectors as opposed to being at the mercy of buyer's choices in inspectors.
Sellers can schedule the inspections at seller's convenience with little effort on the part of agents.
Sellers can assist inspectors during the inspections, something normally not done during buyer's inspections.
Sellers can have inspectors correct any misstatements in the reports before they are generated.
Reports help sellers see their homes through the eyes of a critical, third-party, thus making sellers more realistic about asking price.
Agents are alerted to any immediate safety issues found, before other agents and potential buyers tour the home.
Repairs made ahead of time might make homes show better.
The reports provide third-party, unbiased opinions to offer to potential buyers.
Clean reports can be used as marketing tools to help sell the homes.
Reports might relieve prospective buyer's unfounded suspicions, before they walk away.
Seller inspections eliminate buyer's remorse that sometimes occurs just after an inspection.
Seller inspections reduce the need for negotiations and 11th-hour renegotiations.
Seller inspections relieve the agent of having to hurriedly procure repair estimates or schedule repairs.
The reports might encourage buyers to waive their inspection contingencies.
Deals are less likely to fall apart the way they often do when buyer's inspections unexpectedly reveal problems, last minute.
Reports provide full-disclosure protection from future legal claims.

Advantages to the home buyer:

The inspection is done already.
The inspection is paid for by the seller.
The report provides a more accurate, third-party view of the condition of the home prior to making an offer.
A seller inspection eliminates surprise defects.
Problems are corrected or at least acknowledged prior to making an offer on the home.
A seller inspection reduces the need for negotiations and 11th-hour renegotiations.
The report might assist in acquiring financing.
A seller inspection allows the buyer to sweeten the offer without increasing the offering price by waiving inspections.

Please visit the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors NACHI for more information

What Professionals Should you call on?

William DeVries (Magnum Property Inspection) — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 19:18:10 -0700

Because purchasing a home is probably the biggest investment you will ever make, you'll definitely want a team of professionals working with you throughout the process.

A Real Estate Agent

No one will play a more important role in helping you find a home than your real estate agent. Your real estate agent's job is to:

Help you find the ideal home.
Write an Offer to Purchase.
Negotiate on your behalf to help you get the best possible deal.
Provide you with important information about the community, arrange and coordinate the home inspection and essentially save you time, trouble and money.

A Mortgage Broker

If you haven't already been pre-qualified, you will need to find a good lender to assist you during the purchasing process and for as long as you have your mortgage.

To find a lender or mortgage broker, you can:

Get a referral from your real estate agent, family members, friends or other professionals.
Look in the Yellow Pages.

A Lawyer

You need a lawyer to protect your legal interests, to make sure what your buying does not have any building liens or work or clean-up orders associated with it. They will review all contracts before you sign them Having a lawyer will give you peace of mind and ensure that things go as smoothly as possible.

A Home Inspector

You should consider having any home you are thinking of buying inspected by a knowledgeable and professional inspector.

Have the inspector show you the SOP Standards of Practice which outlines what will be inspected and what will not be inspected, look at their Code of Ethics, ask about insurance, which Association do they belong to.

The home inspector's role is to inform you on the property's fire, saftey and personal health concerns. It is a Non-invasive nor destructive inspection. You will also be informed of potential repairs / upgrades that should be done and may even be able to tell you where there may have been problems in the past.

Every inspection should include an evaluation of at least the following:

Foundation
Doors and windows
Roof and exterior walls
Attics
Plumbing and electrical systems
Heating and air conditioning systems
Ceilings, walls and floors
Insulation
Ventilation
Septic tanks, wells or sewer lines
Any other buildings such as a detached garage
The lot, including drainage away from buildings, slopes and natural vegetation
Overall opinion of structural integrity of the buildings
Common areas (in the case of a condominium/housing co-ops)

A good home and property inspector generally belongs to a provincial or national industry association. Home inspector fees are generally $300 and more, depending on the size and condition of the home.