These are items that I find on an everyday basis. Some of these defective items are what kills the deal at times. If Sellers can take this list and correct any items that they find to be in disorder, the Sale of their home would be less stressful. Let's get to work....
Whole House is Poorly Maintained - Deferred maintenance represents a potential high cost situation to bring the home back into a satisfactory condition. If the present homeowner did not properly care for the home over the years, then someone will need to upgrade the home sooner or later. Preferably sooner. My home inspection report can be utilized as a checklist in order to get the home back up to standards.
Poor Drainage around the Structure - All roof water needs to drain away from the structure at its perimeter, to prevent water intrusion into the basement. Roof gutters, downspouts and downspout extensions can be installed to rectify any site drainage problems. Grading (sloped away from the foundation) is also very important in this situation. 98% of the homes I inspect absolutely need improvements in grading.
Electrical - Insufficient overload protection to the electrical service and amateur (and often dangerous) wiring connections are my most common everyday issues. Electrical system problems are safety related and require immediate attention by a licensed Electrician.
Inadequate Insulation & Ventilation in Attic - Poor insulation and poor ventilation causes excessive utility costs and lack of occupant comfort. Most older homes require additional insulation, which then requires a ventilation improvement. In other situations... in an effort to save energy, many homeowners have "over sealed" their homes with insulation with no regard to ventilation, resulting in excessive interior moisture due to the inadequate ventilation. Significant moisture and excessive heat build-up within the attic cavity can lead to rapid shingle deterioration, Mold build-up, peeling of exterior paint, rusty nails, energy losses and rotting and failure of both structural and non-structural elements.
Heating/Cooling System Defects - Improper installations, inadequate maintenance, exhaust and combustion issues, aged components, and malfunctioning safety controls are the most frequent issues I encounter on a daily basis.
Roof Issues - Improperly installed and aged roof surfaces occur frequently. I frequently find poorly installed or missing flashing at the transition areas. Repairs may be simple or (at times) the entire roof may need to be replaced.
Minor Structural Damage - Minor structural damage means the house is not likely to fall down, but someone should correct with the problem before it becomes a more serious issue. Such damage is usually caused by water seepage into the foundation, floor joists, rafters or window and door headers are found unstable. First you need to fix the cause of the problem (a leaky roof or improper drainage outside the foundation, for example), then repair or replace any damaged structural members. Inadequate caulking or weather stripping is most common. Obviously, the more extensive the damage, the more expensive it will be to repair.
Plumbing Issues - The most common defects are leaking gaskets, deteriorated cast iron waste pipes, leaking and outdated problematic systems like polybutylene and galvanized piping and any incompatible piping materials. Repairs can often be made by a licensed Plumber but on occasion, a total system replacement is the only solution.
Air and Water Penetrating Cracks and Window Perimeters at Exterior - Foundation cracks and separations at basement windows can allow water into the wall cavities which is conducive to rot and Mold growth.
Attic Structural Damage - Cut, modified and broken trusses, rafters and floor joists are often found in attic cavities and on occasion I also find structural components missing. Usually carpentry repairs are needed, however I find it is rarely an imminent safety hazard.
Termite and other wood destroying organisms - Due the local environment and conducive conditions. All wood boring insect damage can absolutely be corrected. Costs will always depend on how excessive the insect damage is. Termite damage found in any sill area will be very costly.
Fire safety issues - Related to Electrical issues and fireplaces & wood stoves are often neglected.
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