I am amazed at how often I see plugged dryer vents. The lint/dust that plugs these vents represents a significant fire hazard and should be maintained free of debris. This is something that the homeowner/handyman can do. Everyone's use of dryers and the types of clothing they dry is diffe
...
12/31/2007
When do you NOT need an inspection? Well, inspections are always a good idea even when the conditions are as obvious as this interior door being used as an exterior door. Not all problems are this obvious. Sometimes obvious issues (even hilarious issues) can be a distraction leading to missing
...
12/31/2007
Many homes have what are called "frost-free" outside faucets. The design of these faucets is such that the water is actually shut-off at the interior of the home where is more likely to be warmer thus preventing freezing of the water near the valve outdoors. When you shut off the valve, water d
...
12/30/2007
When was the last time you tested your GFCI protected receptacles----you know those receptacles around the home that have the little test buttons on them (some are red & black)? These receptacles are required in New Construction at many locations including the Garage, outdoors, kitchen, bathroom
...
12/30/2007
Condo inspections represent an interesting dilemma for inspectors. There is so much that is "typically" deferred to the Condo Association: exterior, roof, common areas etc. Even while "excluding" these areas I am still inclined to look at these areas and note concerns I might see so that
...
12/29/2007
A secure home is never "absolute" but there are some things that can be done to make them more resistant to break-in. While I make no attempt to verify the relative security of a home, one simple thing that I do like to check is if the security pin on the lock-set enters the strike plate on the
...
12/28/2007
Home inspectors get asked this question every day. The answer can simply roll off the tongue---or it may be more like pulling teeth. The reasons for this are as varied as the homes themselves. Some inspectors have fixed fees (no ifs ands or buts), some have fixed fees (unless the house i
...
12/27/2007
I have always been fascinated with the beauty to be found in ordinary objects---objects with conditions that as a Home Inspector I would most likely be calling defects. The insides of furnaces, failing paint surfaces, and the patterns made by wood destroying organisms can all have a beauty beyon
...
12/25/2007
Fellow blogger, Leslie Bloss, suggested that I share a few insights about flooding of homes. Most homes sooner or later will be affected by seasonal flooding. As home inspectors we are very interested in assessing both past and present flooding and conditions conducive to, or indicative of
...
12/23/2007
I was a builder for over 33 years before I became a home inspector and I can tell you that there is no way to keep track of all that goes on during the construction process. Good contractors do their best to use the best sub-contractors, and local jurisdictions inspect the construction at many
...
12/23/2007
.JPG)