Hidden Secrets You Don't Want To Find Later

Sometimes it does not matter how many professionals are involved, it is not possible to discover hidden problems at the home. If problems are concealed behind vinyl wallpaper, behind cabinets -- unless there is an odor or an obvious defect at the roof or siding on the other side -- there is just no way to know. The photo below is an example of that.

A remodel was taking place and the homeowner removed a kitchen cupboard. That cupboard, when removed, had water damage at the top of it, and behind it. It ends up that the problem was the result of a roof leak around a plumbing vent stack that was up above. To the eye the vent stack looked like it should be watertight. The roofer who came in and did upgrades on the roof thought it was okay. In this case, everyone was lucky because the structural lumber was good, the insulation was okay but in a few areas some sheet rock had to be removed and replaced.

Steven L. Smith

Bellingham WA Home Inspections