tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16309736186933565052024-03-23T03:14:08.303-07:00Confessions of a Serial Home InspectorAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-23544338843051078972019-05-29T14:50:00.001-07:002019-05-29T14:52:24.120-07:00Little Things<h2 class="date-header" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 0px; position: relative;">
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It's the Little Things That Make All The Difference</h3>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><b>You've Received Your Inspection Report - Now What?</b></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>When I write a report for my clients, </b>I cover every detail of the home. Starting with the sidewalks and ending with the roof, I examine every inch to give you the information you'll need to negotiate the final cost of the home based on it's condition. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">I put the "Big" things in a summary at the end</b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222;"> – I list issues that may cost a lot of money to repair and that may be hazardous to your health and safety in </span><span style="color: red;">RED</span><span style="color: #222222;">. These are usually what are used as negotiating points by you and your Realtor to adjust the final cost. Also in the summary I list things that are important to me in </span><span style="color: blue;">BLUE</span><span style="color: #222222;"> because I want you to pay special attention to them. These are the "little" things that mean a lot.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">So You've Closed on the Home, Now What?</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Hopefully, this means that all the </span><span style="color: red;">RED</span><span style="color: #222222;"> issues in your inspection report were addressed and you are happy with the final deal negotiated by your Realtor. But instead of moving in, now is a good time to review your report and pay attention to the </span><span style="color: blue;">BLUE</span><span style="color: #222222;"> items in the summary, while they are easy to address.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Gutters and Downspouts</b></span><br />
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This is the #1 most common issue that I discover that can have <i>the most devastating consequences</i> if not taken care of. Clean your gutters now and every year (if not twice a year) for as long as you own your home. I got a call from a client complaining that I didn't point out the leaks in his basement when I inspected his home last winter. Well, not to argue, but there weren't any leaks in his basement last winter! However, I did list in his report the clogged gutters and lack of downspout extensions. I check those to protect your home and investment from serious water damage. If the gutters are full of debris, water cascades like a waterfall around the perimeter of your home and will eventually find its way inside to your basement - possibly leading to mold or even structural damage. When I recommend downspout extensions, it's not because I like the way they look, it's because they work! They guide water away from your home. Please, please, take care of these things right away - don't wait for the damp basement to appear.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
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<b style="font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Your HVAC Needs Some TLC</span></b><br />
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<b>A furnace is like a car</b>, if you take care of it, it will last a long, long time. If you neglect it, it'll become unreliable and will break down at the most inconvenient time. Don't hesitate to get an annual contract to service all the components of your HVAC system. A good cleaning and lubrication of all the working parts will keep your home mechanically sound and can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.<br />
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What Else Should You Pay Attention To?</div>
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Often I find issues of deferred maintenance where a homeowner just waited too long to paint and caulk. What would have been a weekend chore is now a costly repair. Use my report as a Honey-Do list and get to know the wear spots on your home and attend to the touch-up paint and caulking before they get out of control. Again it's the whole Stitch-in-Time-Saves-Nine theory. Take care of it now and spend your money on a vacation next year instead of new siding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXKZqp3FF3vxhq8FIhM8EP5eibx9XKsyWxAHn2iyATWygGTsP04coxMAG3aqp8AwsJq786E_XeFglITdRl0IOTydodpQkZb1xjgJIAP8x0G8m729EgbUTO5r03RmtRlyjTDDpGPYLU5A/s1600/20190414_110018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXKZqp3FF3vxhq8FIhM8EP5eibx9XKsyWxAHn2iyATWygGTsP04coxMAG3aqp8AwsJq786E_XeFglITdRl0IOTydodpQkZb1xjgJIAP8x0G8m729EgbUTO5r03RmtRlyjTDDpGPYLU5A/s200/20190414_110018.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>Bathrooms Get a Lot of Use</b><br />
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You start the day and end the day there. You relax in the shower and take care of all your personal needs there, so it's not hard to imagine that a little preventative maintenance can make your bathroom lasts years longer with just a little up-front care.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rhenC679NbtOAjPli4zmR0DyZEcVi7F58DEXFvuyCcgfEqggEZaTDvV99Jkgaz02NFFbMJkHcqm9dGt9h8kMuem3rjiAX44oXSUSMZUGPO4jLWshGnavoe_vSzO9y-ei8b5GN1-ExiI/s1600/20190414_105329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rhenC679NbtOAjPli4zmR0DyZEcVi7F58DEXFvuyCcgfEqggEZaTDvV99Jkgaz02NFFbMJkHcqm9dGt9h8kMuem3rjiAX44oXSUSMZUGPO4jLWshGnavoe_vSzO9y-ei8b5GN1-ExiI/s320/20190414_105329.jpg" width="320" /></a>So caulk the corners and fix the grout. </span><br />
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Give all the grout a double coat of sealer and don't skimp on the quality of the paint you use in these rooms - they are expensive rooms to remodel, so let's add some years to the bathrooms you have.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Your Home Inspection Report is a valuable tool</b> - both for when you purchase your home and as a guide to maintain your home. Your Inspector is also a valuable asset. I appreciate my client's trust in hiring me for such an important job and I want to be a resource that you can call for help with any questions you may have for years to come.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Website</a></div>
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Steve Nadeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10614611435528913257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-10345239894978890462019-04-04T07:20:00.000-07:002019-04-04T09:22:31.793-07:00<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today I'm featuring a guest blog from Redfin, in which they asked me to contribute.<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; white-space: pre-wrap;"> My 200 words on "decks" are free gold...</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-house/">You can go to the article here.</a></span><br />
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What to Look for When Buying a House</h1>
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<span lang="EN">If you’ve ever been to an open house or toured
a home then you’ve most likely marveled at different home layouts, lamented
over beautifully designed kitchens or critiqued the color choice in the
bathrooms. But beyond the veneer that makes a house shine to potential home
buyers, have you ever wondered what could be lying below the surface? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Is the home you’re touring actually in good
shape or are there hidden issues that only a trained eye can spot? Here’s your
chance to learn what to look for when buying a house so you too can begin
touring homes like a professional home inspector.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the driveway<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">All parts of the home need to work in unison and that
includes your driveway. When entering a driveway you’ll want to look at its
surface conditions, levelness, and the areas around the driveway. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Walk the entire driveway, noting any deterioration,
cracking, heaving or settling. Driveways are known to crack over time but the
reasons behind these cracks can vary, such as:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Improper compaction of the soil prior to pouring the
concrete.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Trees near the driveway can cause heaving if their
roots grow underneath the concrete.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">A slope in the driveway can cause rainwater to
settle, causing it to erode the supporting dirt below.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Deterioration of any wood used in the pouring of the
driveway may leave a gap that can both become a tripping hazard and a means of
moisture entering the fissure, causing more damage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Scot Baker<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://bakerinspectiongroup.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Baker Inspection Group</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"> - </span><u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/12359/CA/Modesto"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Modesto,
CA</span></a></span></u><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the living room<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">When inspecting the living room, use three passes to look
at everything. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">On the first pass, walk the floor in a circle and look for
any signs of the floor moving or shifting, water damage, or any damage to the
floor itself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">During the second pass, check out the ceiling by walking
around the room again. Check for water stains and any cracks that could
indicate a structural problem. Also, check out any air conditioning vents to
see if they are clean, as dust or other debris around these vents may signal a
lack of maintenance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">On your third pass, look only at the walls, keeping an eye
out for cracks or separations between the walls, the ceiling, or the fireplace
that could be another indication of a structural problem. Look at the
electrical outlets to make sure they are clean (not painted) and don’t show any
indications of smoke or burn marks. And don’t forget to check all of the light
switches and ceiling fans to make sure they work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">David Selman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://selmanhomeinspections.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Selman
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/30794/TX/Dallas"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Dallas, TX</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the fireplace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Fireplaces can be an attractive focal point in
many homes. It’s a place where family and friends get together to relax and
warm themselves during the cold winter months. That’s why when touring a home
you’ll want to know if that fireplace with a great mantle is a winner, or if it
will be in need of repair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">First, you’ll want to inspect the exterior of
the chimney by looking for any structural issues around the foundation, as well
as the chimney case, crown, flue and cap (if installed). Whether it’s around
the foundation, firebox area, or chimney case you should make a note of any
signs of cracks as these indicate some deterioration. These cracks could have
occurred from normal settling of a home, movement from past earthquakes, or the
deterioration could have been caused by years of moisture seeping into these
cracks, resulting in more damage. Most of the time these areas can be repaired
by a mason.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Inspection of the chimney crown, flue and cap
usually means a trip up to the roof, which during a home tour you most likely
won’t do. If you decide to make an offer on the house, your home inspector will
look for any damage to these areas to make sure dangerous carbon monoxide or
moisture is not reentering the home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Inside the home, you’ll want to inspect the
fireplace for signs of cracked or damaged mortar and brickwork. Your home
inspector will go one step further by inspecting the fireplace throat and
determine if it has a proper sized hearth and that the mantel is secured
properly. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Mike Phegley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.napavalleyhomeinspections.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Napa
Valley Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/2553/CA/Calistoga"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Calistoga, CA</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
fire and carbon monoxide detectors<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">In
a newly constructed home, smoke detectors should be installed inside each
bedroom and in the adjoining area outside the bedroom door (such as a hallway).
Newer homes are required to have smoke detectors wired into the electrical
system with battery back-ups. They should be interconnected so that activation
of one alarm sets off all alarms. In older homes, at least one smoke detector
is required per floor, including basements, and should be within 21 feet of
each bedroom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">Carbon
monoxide (CO) detectors are highly recommended for homes with gas appliances
such as stoves, hot water heaters, furnaces, and when the home has an attached
garage. They should be installed on each floor of the home and within 15 feet
of all bedrooms. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">After
you buy a home, it is a good idea to test the smoke and CO detectors every 2-3
months to ensure functionality. You'll also want to replace your batteries
regularly and it is recommended that you replace your devices after 10 years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Ryan Sorensen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://easternoregoninspections.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">R. Sorensen Construction & Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"> - </span><u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/14944/OR/Pilot-Rock"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Pilot
Rock, OR</span></a></span></u><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the kitchen<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">A good idea for prospective homeowners
attending an open house or touring a home privately is to look under the
kitchen sink, which can actually tell you a lot about the overall condition of
a house. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">If you see a well-kept cabinet under the sink,
it's usually a good reflection about the upkeep of the rest of the home. In
fact, if you see water damage or possible mold under the kitchen sink, it
usually means the rest of the house is in disrepair. Of course, this doesn’t
always hold true but more often than not, it’s a great barometer of the house
as a whole. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">When touring a home like a home inspector, the
kitchen is obviously a major component since they are unique in regards to the
volume of items that can have issues. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">During a typical inspection, home inspectors
usually operate all installed appliances such as the dishwasher, range/oven,
microwave, vent hood, disposal, and sink. They also note issues with the
countertops, cabinets and drawers, R/O systems, compactors, and built-in
refrigerators (if any). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Liz O’Neall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.inspectionsaz.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">AZ Property
Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/14240/AZ/Phoenix"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Phoenix,
AZ</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
bathrooms<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">In each bathroom, you will want to turn on all the lights
and the bathroom fan. If there isn’t a fan, make sure you take note because if
you end up buying the house you’ll need to open a window every time you shower.
Also, you’ll want to check and make sure there is a heat/air conditioning vent.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Next, look for water stains around the toilet, the
bathtub/shower, and especially under the sink. You’ll also want to make sure
the toilet is secure. Start by straddling it and then using your knees see if
the toilet rocks or moves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Look at any glass within five feet of the shower or bath
and make sure there is a tempered stamp etched in the corner. Do the same for
the shower doors as well if they are glass. You’ll also want to check for water
damage around windows of the shower enclosure. Then make sure the shower head
pipes and faucets don’t wiggle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Check for an electrical outlet within thirty inches of
each sink and that they are 3-prong (grounded). One of the bathrooms should
have a GFCI electrical outlet. You can easily spot it as it’s the outlet with
the two buttons in the middle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Finally, look at the ceiling, walls, and floors to make
sure there isn’t any damage. If the bathrooms are on an upper level, go
downstairs and look for water stains or patches on the ceiling under the
bathrooms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Michael Marlow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://vhillc.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Veteran Home Inspections, PLLC</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"> - </span><u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/16657/TX/San-Antonio"><span style="color: #1155cc;">San Antonio, TX</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
bedrooms<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Houses with bedrooms that are too small, too
few or on the wrong floor can make a great house dysfunctional for your needs.
Luckily, when it comes to inspecting, bedrooms are easy for most homebuyers to
evaluate for themselves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">You’ll want to note the number of windows each
bedroom has. Something that most people do not realize is that building codes
do not require a bedroom to have a closet, so make sure to see if each bedroom
has one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Bedrooms also require several important
features and security measures, such as a smoke alarm, an emergency
escape/rescue opening (such as a window or door), heat, and some means of light
and ventilation. The condition of the bedroom will often be indicative of the
overall condition of the house as damaged and scratched doors, stained walls
and carpets, and dirty ductwork can indicate a poorly maintained home. Consider
the heating and cooling system for each room and note any bedrooms above
garages as with older houses these can be less comfortable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Dylan Chalk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://orcainspect.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Orca Inspection
Services</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/1015/WA/Bainbridge-Island"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Bainbridge Island, WA</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the basement<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">The basement may not be the place you seek out first on a
home tour. However, basements can offer great extra space in a home that you
can potentially use as extra bedrooms, a family room or playroom, or storage
area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">If the basement is unfinished and insulation is not
covering the foundation walls, then you have a great opportunity to view the
foundation wall for signs of structural concerns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While minor concrete cracking is somewhat
typical, larger cracks and, in particular, horizontal cracks, can be an
indication of structural movement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">A white powder-like substance called efflorescence, can be
an indication of poor drainage around the home and possibly a grading or gutter
issue. Your nose is one of the best tools for inspecting a basement. If things
smell musty or damp, this can also be an indication of moisture concerns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Lastly, look around for signs of any unwanted insects or
rodents who tend to make their way into a home through the basement. Droppings
could indicate a pest concern.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">George Scott<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://scotthomeinspection.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Scott Home
Inspection</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/5155/CO/Denver"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Denver,
CO</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the garage<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #202020;">When entering the garage make sure all light switches
work. Though you most likely won't check electrical outlets during a home tour,
your home inspector will do it for you during the home inspection and report
any that are not working.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #202020;">You'll want to check the walls and ceiling to see if they
are fully sheetrocked. Sheetrock provides a fire barrier to your home when
properly installed.Also, make sure that the access point to the attic also has
a sheetrock cover; if it’s just plywood this would be a breach in the fire
barrier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #202020;">Test the garage doors and the wall mounted remote as well.
Look at the condition of the springs, tracks, and rollers of the garage door.
Do they appear to be in good condition? Your home inspector will go further by
testing all remotes, the laser eye barrier, and reverse sensor to make sure it
meets minimal resistance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #202020;">Look at the garage floor, also known as the garage slab.
Slight cracks are pretty common, but you should take note if you see excessive
cracks or settlement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Clinton Betchan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://betchanhomeinspections.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Betchan
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/8102/OK/Guthrie"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Guthrie,
OK</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .1in; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 14.0pt;">Below are things you won’t typically see
during a home tour. However, your home inspector will certainly look into these
areas of the house during a home inspection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the HVAC<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">One
of the largest systems in the home, the heating, ventilation, and
air-conditioning systems (HVAC), require periodic maintenance to ensure they
run properly for years. Neglected and dirty HVAC equipment is the main reason
for system failures. Though you most likely won't inspect these systems, here's
an overview of what's involved during an inspection:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Visual
inspection of each component of the system if it is accessible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Check for
loose connections, leaking gas lines, worn out components, and damaged coolant
lines.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Inspect the
heat exchanger and evaporator coils to ensure they are clean and in good
condition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Listen for
hard starts, irregular combustion, and worn out bearings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Check for
clogs in the condensate line and verify there is a proper discharge location.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Check the
filter to ensure it has been changed regularly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">The
average gas furnace lasts 15-25 years, the heat pump about 12-20 years, and
standalone AC 12-15 years. An annual inspection is a small investment to
protect your HVAC system. It's a good idea to maintain your HVAC system
biannually in the spring for air-conditioning units and the fall for furnaces.
To improve efficiency, use a small portable vacuum to remove any dust buildup
on the system and the air-conditioning coils.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Grant
Waller<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.pacwesthomeinspections.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">PacWest
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"> - </span><u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/1432/OR/Beaverton"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Beaverton,
OR</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
water heater<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">You probably won't personally inspect the
water heater during an open house, however, you can count on your home
inspector to:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Visually inspect the surfaces of
the tank and plumbing lines for signs of leakage and overall condition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Verify proper earthquake
strapping—one strap on the top third of the tank, one strap on the lower third.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">If it's a gas water heater, the
home inspector will inspect the fuel supply piping, ensure a proper sediment
trap is present, check the length and type of the flexible fuel supply hose,
and look at the burner and venting from the water heater.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">If it's an electric water heater,
they will ensure the electrical supply is protected in the conduit, check for a
ground wire attachment on top of the tank, and ensure the element covers are
present and properly secured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Inspect the Temperature Pressure
Relief (TPR) valve and ensure proper material, routing, and termination of the
discharge piping.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Evaluate for vehicle impact if in
a garage - typically, a bollard (post) should be present in case the water heater
is in the path of a vehicle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Look at the area around the tank
checking for past leaks, ensure the tank is sitting on a stable base.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Refer to the manufacturer’s
identification label for size, age, and capacity of the tank.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Matt Fellman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://crawfordinspections.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Crawford
Inspection Services</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/30772/OR/Portland"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Portland, OR</span></a></span></u><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the home’s exterior<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">When approaching the home, take a look at the roof ridge
to make sure it is level and not sagging. This will give you a clue that the
house itself is not sinking and the walls are not spreading. It can also give
you a feel for the solidity of the roof support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Look at the grounds around the home and make sure the soil
is sloped away from the home and that gutters, downspouts, and downspout
extensions are present and in good shape. This is especially important if the
home has a basement as it helps prevent water intrusion into the basement and
to protect the integrity of the foundation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Walk around the home observing the condition of the
siding, eaves, fascia, and soffits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look
for wood rot, termite damage, and water staining, as well as carefully examine
caulking and flashings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for
deteriorated or missing caulk and flashings especially around windows, doors,
butt joints, and siding transitions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These simple observations can save some huge expenses down the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Michael Stanford<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.watchdogslasvegas.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Watch
Dogs Home Inspectors</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/10201/NV/Las-Vegas"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Las Vegas, NV</span></a></span></u><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the Landscape Irrigation (sprinkler) System<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">On a home tour, take note if the property has an
irrigation sprinkler system, as many homes have these types of systems to water
the lawn. Though you probably won't be able to test it, your home inspector
will inspect the irrigation system controller along with each sprinkler
zone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Any broken sprinkler heads and leaks found will be noted,
and the backflow valve will be visually inspected for damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The findings of the inspection will be
included in your home inspection report along with photos of each zone during
operation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Danny Smith<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://semperfiinspection.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Semper Fi
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/30794/TX/Dallas"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Dallas, TX</span></a></span></u><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
fences<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Inspecting the fence of a residence is
extremely important as it provides for the safety and security of a home.
During a home tour, you'll first want to note what material the fence is made
of (most commonly treated wood) and then see if there is any indication of rot,
damage, and other signs of deterioration. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">The home inspector will also look for those
same things but then test the amount of resistance the fence can withstand and
what type of code may need to be applied. Once those items have been
identified, the inspector is notified about the property line to ensure they
are inspecting the proper fencing for the specific property. Next, the
inspector will then assess whether the standard expectations associated with
the fence have been applied, including:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">4x4 posts should be at least 2
feet in the ground and they should be 6 to 8 feet from each other depending
upon the crossbar and planks being used.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Concrete used to hold each post in
place should be 3 times the width of the 4x4 posts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">The crossbar should be a 2x4 if
being used with the standard 4x4 posts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Each post should be perfectly
vertical or plumb.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">The proper industry standard
brackets need to be used to secure the cross beams to the posts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Any insect damage will be
carefully identified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Only if all of these standards are identified
with the fence in mind can the inspector be sure that the fence is meeting code
and will provide safety and security for the homeowners.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">James Beck JR<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://www.soundviewinspect.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Sound View
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/16163/WA/Seattle"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Seattle, WA</span></a></span></u><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
decks<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 94%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span lang="EN">Decks can be a great asset, especially during the summertime, but also
they may have hidden hazards. Often times, they were added to a home by
do-it-yourselfers who had good intentions but may not have used safe
construction methods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 94%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span lang="EN">During a home tour, pay particular attention to how decks attach to the
home, which is usually done with a ledger or starter board. A pro will use ½”
lag bolts with washers in a staggered pattern to attach this board. They also
will protect the ledger with flashing to stop water infiltration. If there is
no flashing water will weaken and rot the ledger over time, possibly finding
its way into the home and causing hidden pockets of rot and mold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 94%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span lang="EN">Railings also get extra scrutiny at inspection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you know that railings need to resist 200
pounds of force at any point along their length? Always look at a deck with
safety in mind. If someone stumbles at your next BBQ, the railing needs to
prevent them from going over the edge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 94%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span lang="EN">There are many considerations when it comes to deck construction and
all decks should be professionally inspected and regularly maintained.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Steve Nadeau<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Metro
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/5155/CO/Denver"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Denver, CO</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
retaining walls<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">Retaining
walls are used to hold back earth and landscaping and are typically made of
poured-in-place concrete and then backfilled. You want to make sure these walls
are perfectly plumb (vertical) without any leaning away from the retained
earth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">This
rule also applies to basement foundation walls as well. Besides the retaining
wall being plumb, there should not be any significant cracks. Small fractures
are typical but any differential movement on either side of the crack may be of
concern. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">If
there is a crack, see if it is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, which
would indicate one portion of the wall is sinking in relation to the other. If
one part of the wall is sticking out in relation to the other side of the
crack, that is a concern as well. Sometimes these walls can be lifted back into
position or pulled back towards the earth but this generally requires
excavation and added structural support. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">Joe
Konopacki<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.insightpsinc.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Insight Property Services, Inc</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;">. - </span><u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/29501/IL/Naperville"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Naperville, Illinois</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="background: white; mso-highlight: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the roof<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Each type of roofing has a different life expectancy.
However, the variables of installation, exposure, attic venting, and
maintenance are what determine the actual life of each roof.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Roof inspection begins in the attic by checking for water
staining, leaks, damaged roof members, and evaluating the available venting.
Heat and moisture build up quickly in improperly vented attics and shorten the
lifespan of the roof. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">An accurate assessment of the roof condition can only be
determined from closely examining the surface of the roofing. Inspectors will
look to determine the number of roof layers, such as multiple layers of roofing
hold more heat which causes more wear. Once on the roof, we evaluate the
surface of the roofing, flashing, and roof transitions. We also evaluate roof
penetrations (skylights, vents, chimneys) and note conditions like overhanging
trees that can damage the roofing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Chad Sulloway<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal;">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://www.pdxinspect.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">PDX Inspect Inc</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"> - </span><u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/30772/OR/Portland"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Portland,
OR</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
the foundation<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">The
most important part of any home, foundations are primarily built with stone, brick,
concrete or block. A home inspector will inspect the foundation for any damage
that can affect the integrity of the house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">When
inspecting the foundation the inspector looks at both the exterior and interior
for cracks, deterioration, and other environmental factors. Most foundation
damage is the result of water infiltration such as a missing gutter system,
which can result in water entering cracks and crevices of the foundation and
then, in the colder winter months, freezing, resulting in damage due to
hydrostatic pressure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Type,
size, and location of cracks in the foundation are very important to note. Any
cracks in the foundation should be monitored over time for movement and water
penetration. Shrinkage and settlement cracks are common in most homes, as are
hairline cracks in foundations. V-Shape cracks are something to be concerned
about as these could be evidence of structural settlement. Depending upon the
size and location, these cracks generally require further evaluation,
especially those greater than 3/16 of an inch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">Thomas
Herbst<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://claytonhomeinspection.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Clayton
Home Inspection Inc</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;">.
- </span><u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/1826/MA/Boston"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Boston,
MA</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN">Inspecting
crawl spaces<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Every part of the country has their own
unwanted pests, so when inspecting the crawl space be aware that you might not
be alone. As such, a strong flashlight and keen eyesight are required.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">The most important system in the crawl space
is the foundation. There are several types of foundations, each with their own
unique components and possible problems. Regardless of which type of foundation
the home has, look for loose material (stone, bricks, etc..), bulging walls,
excessive settling, sagging, moisture intrusion, and how the building structure
is secured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Ventilation and moisture control are another
key factor. Is a vapor barrier required in your area? Is there sufficient vent
area for outside air to displace the moisture? Dryer vents should never end in
the crawl space, and HVAC ducts should be supported and insulated. In colder
climates, the floor should be well insulated from underneath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Plumbing components in the crawl space should
not only be inspected for leaks but also for proper supports, hangers, and
insulation. Some crawl spaces have a sump pump to remove excess water and these
should be inspected as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Electrical connections and terminations must
be contained in sealed junction boxes and often, mechanical systems are found
in the crawl space and require inspection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Steven Von Ehrenkrook<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span lang="EN" style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="http://www.azwhiteglove.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">White Glove
Home Inspections</span></a></span></u><span lang="EN"> - <u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/14000/AZ/Peoria"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Peoria, AZ</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Source: <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-house/">Redfin</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Steve Nadeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10614611435528913257noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-41045985890146208892018-09-25T12:42:00.000-07:002018-09-26T18:12:09.083-07:00<br />
<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> Fall is finally here ...</span></h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7s902Wx2cYi2dgT0LhmdBcQvix3vfgJncwGm5hc6nj-gGIKTcCuCWIsC_loejKcc88MY7K6P16E-83OeQowiChkespP9pl8fiZ06xi1ojUjyW2PleceAE_ecv7WBdEr7uOUKPkO94Hho/s1600/fall+house+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="167" data-original-width="194" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7s902Wx2cYi2dgT0LhmdBcQvix3vfgJncwGm5hc6nj-gGIKTcCuCWIsC_loejKcc88MY7K6P16E-83OeQowiChkespP9pl8fiZ06xi1ojUjyW2PleceAE_ecv7WBdEr7uOUKPkO94Hho/s320/fall+house+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h2>
...and it won’t be long before the first
frost. </h2>
<h3>
If you live in Colorado, you should know that it’s a coin toss on whether the first snow will be a
drizzle or a blizzard.</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s be smarter this year and get ahead of the coming
cold weather and prepare for the inevitable winter that’s just around the
corner. A little preventative maintenance now and we can enjoy our winter activities without worry later.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-LuCEs1YugpQCuxqLi5ZP6MbYDELQQvPqF0Ffg4lvRK0G4rNjgHI3FmH8WNml9Ru1rGy71W5x2DtJiVUVTS2iSFpjj1Jbz_7euPWaG6YFG9edvr3NgHYxRIuz3ii5wiZTUEH8qcjrY1Q/s1600/fallin+ladder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="269" data-original-width="195" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-LuCEs1YugpQCuxqLi5ZP6MbYDELQQvPqF0Ffg4lvRK0G4rNjgHI3FmH8WNml9Ru1rGy71W5x2DtJiVUVTS2iSFpjj1Jbz_7euPWaG6YFG9edvr3NgHYxRIuz3ii5wiZTUEH8qcjrY1Q/s320/fallin+ladder.jpg" width="230" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;">Please, please, clean your gutters.</span></b><br />
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If you were one of my
<b><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Home Inspection</a> </span></b>clients, you’ve already endured my lecture of the importance of
clean gutters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the
single most effective way of keeping your home in good shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hire someone to clean them – don't risk injury by taking my advice to clean your gutters! Falling from
ladders is more common than you think.</div>
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<b>Adding insulation and caulking</b> around windows can make your
home more comfortable and cheaper to heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now is a great time to do those tasks while the weather is nice – you
won’t want to do it once the cold wind starts to blow.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Instead of raking your leaves</b>, consider buying a “mulching
blade” for your lawn mower. You'll be amazed at how one of these can turn a
pile of leaves into valuable organic matter for your lawn. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>It’s time to clean your chimney</b> if you haven’t had it done in the last three
years, . If you enjoy frequent fires in your fireplace, or if
you burn pine logs, consider having your chimney cleaned every year.<br />
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<b>Order your firewood.</b> If you’re new to the neighborhood, ask neighbors for a good firewood supplier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hardwood, such as oak, maple, or elm, are your best choices as long as
they are seasoned for at least a year. Speaking of firewood, now is a good time
to have the trees trimmed. You can have the trimmings cut and stacked for next
year’s firewood – but make sure you let it dry for a year before you burn it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Remember when you bought your home and your <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Home Inspector</a> </span>recommended an annual HVAC Maintenance contract?</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcqk3X_Tu9mnXUYqutfLuu4Enb9t3USc13Vt6GDUaSFJaEGBfFNa1XDZmnXdH14kZ6Gfnm4GsXaaUmiqS0XBI28v_egZa7iicuJtZhpp6lE6CuGGqvkuF3F23Q01NzNEcY0NvEaHmz4c/s1600/furnace+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="273" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcqk3X_Tu9mnXUYqutfLuu4Enb9t3USc13Vt6GDUaSFJaEGBfFNa1XDZmnXdH14kZ6Gfnm4GsXaaUmiqS0XBI28v_egZa7iicuJtZhpp6lE6CuGGqvkuF3F23Q01NzNEcY0NvEaHmz4c/s400/furnace+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Now is the time you want to
schedule your furnace Clean and tune. </b><br />
<br />
You don’t want to beg for service if your
furnace conks out on a freezing February night. There is no better time than
now to start a relationship with a reputable HVAC company. Annual service
contracts are worth it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Once you take care of your home, you can count on your home
taking care of you.</b> <span style="font-weight: normal;">This winter, let’s
enjoy the wonders that winter brings to us and know that we’re prepared to make
the most of the season.</span><br />
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Did you find this article helpful? <b><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Visit My Website</a></b> or <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/metrohomeinspection/">Like Me on Facebook</a></b> to follow my blog.Steve Nadeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10614611435528913257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-68833238386349456242018-05-22T08:35:00.000-07:002018-05-22T08:38:28.858-07:00How to Save Money on Your Home Inspection<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>How to Save Money On Your Home Inspection</b></span></h2>
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You've finally found "The One"</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhQ8NebwRhiD-P6X7U54hRHeCjhQl_TT0Ufl6Ysa7dAX4sx7YxLtoqF0NfyKXlTQE0lXTF0BVpLuWaLwoiIlVN6PJMZP8GoSRqjU2ab3V6k1BAvGhWEKVwSgKE41K2dcrIWr4G9DlGhGT/s1600/save-money-piggy-bank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="768" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhQ8NebwRhiD-P6X7U54hRHeCjhQl_TT0Ufl6Ysa7dAX4sx7YxLtoqF0NfyKXlTQE0lXTF0BVpLuWaLwoiIlVN6PJMZP8GoSRqjU2ab3V6k1BAvGhWEKVwSgKE41K2dcrIWr4G9DlGhGT/s320/save-money-piggy-bank.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Great home. Great neighborhood. And now the work begins. You still have some hurdles to get over before moving day. Now that the sellers have accepted your offer, you still have to get an appraisal, arrange your mortgage and get an inspection.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">But How do You Save Money on the Inspection?</span></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;">Are you trying to save on the cost of the fee that the Inspector charges, or do you want to save <b>real</b> money? If you want to make sure the home you're buying doesn't have hidden expenses that will<b> really</b> cost you after you move in,</span></span> trying to find the Inspector with the lowest fee is taking the wrong approach! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQ7SjVryJDCeasW4GL5ueJVrSp8sYyfUQ67DwWNHFEmTr3m5eiEccQ0A3E6w2SlQuhbOOmMSU-HX7Ad_zg2xPNINpP2vBpJrg_g2CFBjEiEP8Qomdt9pIEKhxPjNph2uKZ1VjUj5yu7cT/s1600/inspection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="249" data-original-width="509" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQ7SjVryJDCeasW4GL5ueJVrSp8sYyfUQ67DwWNHFEmTr3m5eiEccQ0A3E6w2SlQuhbOOmMSU-HX7Ad_zg2xPNINpP2vBpJrg_g2CFBjEiEP8Qomdt9pIEKhxPjNph2uKZ1VjUj5yu7cT/s400/inspection.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>The "cheapest" inspector is the cheapest for a reason.</b> </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They are either inexperienced or they will rush through your home because they have two more inspections scheduled after yours! In either case, there is a real likelihood that they’ll </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">miss important and potentially expensive issues. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><b>The Best Inspector is a </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><b><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Certified Professional Inspector</a>. </b></span></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.12px;">But even that certification isn't enough. Your Inspector should have a well-rounded construction background. Not just in one trade, but as a contractor that has a working knowledge of all the trades. Talk with your Inspector and make sure they can effectively communicate their findings to you. The most important part of the Inspector's job is to supply your Realtor with the information they need to negotiate on your behalf. An experienced Inspector will know how to put a priority on any issues with your home in terms of how much the corrections are likely to cost you. That's where the <b>real money</b> is.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14byepuaBlXkct7T42coUd1as4mrMtOn9xjmgdM21ZHGWsFltOMH7m1fqxoVPj1f1dXCIdhs0mwAqFfZhFpx80FJZtvQ-fCW7plMpPw07fzMaAPylL7Y5ZLVH0EXq70hCVYGVRxOSs5Bk/s1600/Scan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="377" data-original-width="580" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14byepuaBlXkct7T42coUd1as4mrMtOn9xjmgdM21ZHGWsFltOMH7m1fqxoVPj1f1dXCIdhs0mwAqFfZhFpx80FJZtvQ-fCW7plMpPw07fzMaAPylL7Y5ZLVH0EXq70hCVYGVRxOSs5Bk/s320/Scan.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Where do you find the </span></b></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 17.12px;">Best Home Inspector? </span></b><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"> </span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">If your Realtor knows an Inspector they trust - and you trust your Realtor - you can be comfortable with their recommendation. Good Realtors really do look out for you. They know the long - term liabilities of hiring a "soft" inspector. Problems with a home will reveal themselves sooner or later, and knowing sooner is best - because you can negotiate a solution with the seller - therefore <b>saving you money!</b> If the problems surface after the sale, that will cost you. You won't be happy with your Realtor and they won't be getting referrals from you. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;">If you'd rather find an inspector on your own, make sure that whoever you choose is an experienced</span></span> <a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Certified Professional Inspector</a>. You can start with a simple Google search for Inspectors in your area. </span><br />
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></b>
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Skip the ads.</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go to the Inspectors with the highest organic results on Google. They got there by working hard and being recommended - not by paying a fee. If you use a service like Home Advisor or Angie's List, keep in mind those Inspectors pay a hefty fee to be listed on those sights as well. And naturally, the cost of advertising gets passed on to you if you hire them.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Are you hiring a Salesman, or an Inspector?</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz58eaHOWM5S5ND8OImKJzsnHAkouI1WXsIT9_T1371Q1xRSJFgM0G7M0SmInHL6RsOoaYFkzaknGW2i0P0LWBU6GP1lPTD_M6sIxwL9Gy5pii3OwMIogc4vQNcXA7BFs0iDmIqH1tteK6/s1600/Salesman1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="500" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz58eaHOWM5S5ND8OImKJzsnHAkouI1WXsIT9_T1371Q1xRSJFgM0G7M0SmInHL6RsOoaYFkzaknGW2i0P0LWBU6GP1lPTD_M6sIxwL9Gy5pii3OwMIogc4vQNcXA7BFs0iDmIqH1tteK6/s320/Salesman1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many Inspectors use gimmicks or "freebies" to entice you to use them. They may offer 90 day guarantees to make you "feel good" about hiring them. Any warranty that a Home Inspector can offer you for "free" isn't worth the paper it's written on. There are good Home Warranty programs, but the ones that will actually offer a degree of protection will cost a bit more than "free" - and usually can be obtained through the seller or your Realtor. Don't be tricked by a worthless warranty. Hire an Inspector that sells Inspecting.</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You've come this far, Let's finish strong.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know you've been negotiating offers, adding up closing costs, shopping for mortgages, and trying to get the best deals. Don't stop now. Don't skimp on the Home Inspection. What an <a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Experienced Home Inspector</a> can save you in costs far exceeds the fee that they charge.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Website</span></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-65848084187582164332018-01-23T16:25:00.001-08:002018-01-24T06:22:07.386-08:00The Inspection<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Getting a Check-up For Your Home - Before You Buy</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjI_BYyZZ_nSznhgCzxBdJgFkXFBnDf3wdIQpsH6YgIhyAKdd6_4KABDEVc1MIi-pAT70UsED5hFMxQUbEDNu0-e5zbOA8jPmGN_YFEPHJWgJrhyphenhyphenO3OH6RoeXeKoYEkrjEKcOombhDip1W/s1600/House+dr.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjI_BYyZZ_nSznhgCzxBdJgFkXFBnDf3wdIQpsH6YgIhyAKdd6_4KABDEVc1MIi-pAT70UsED5hFMxQUbEDNu0-e5zbOA8jPmGN_YFEPHJWgJrhyphenhyphenO3OH6RoeXeKoYEkrjEKcOombhDip1W/s320/House+dr.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b>When you go to the doctor</b> for your
annual physical, you get professional feedback on your health. You learn if you
have any medical issues that need to be fixed. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A home inspection is like a
physical examination for a house. An Inspection Report simply describes and
identifies what might need repair or replacement in the home you want to buy.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The difference between a good inspection and a
bad inspection is the Inspector</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
– not the condition of the house. The house is what it is – and you will find
out what its condition is sooner or later. Sooner is better. Later is a surprise that you don’t want to have.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">But How do You Find the Best Inspector?</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There are 3 types of inspectors. <b>New
inspectors</b> are enthusiastic, hungry, and cheap. If you’re lucky, they have some
training and at least follow a <a href="https://www.nachi.org/sop.htm" target="_blank">Standard of Practice</a>, but often they’re employees of a larger company and what they're
trained to do is run through a house as quickly as possible and get to their
next job – because they're expected to do 2 or 3 inspections a day! New
inspectors come with two strikes against them: 1) the likelihood that they’ll <b>miss important issues </b>because of their
inexperience, and 2) the very real possibility that they will <b>misidentify things as problems</b> where
none exist. Bad information from a new inspector could cause you to miss out on the
Home of your dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sDUavnvzby6LO0OO0sohBIv9V8K7if8LgoHzLhYYWquljKxu-gjAwCbhXALwoF7ZiqmFb9-OKDxU9L36vZIgOdq0qTwBS0iMcDxG4x24nvsZ2lxZPrtKP_lNnkk_fwvSI9n7zDE9-mBD/s1600/3stooges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1243" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sDUavnvzby6LO0OO0sohBIv9V8K7if8LgoHzLhYYWquljKxu-gjAwCbhXALwoF7ZiqmFb9-OKDxU9L36vZIgOdq0qTwBS0iMcDxG4x24nvsZ2lxZPrtKP_lNnkk_fwvSI9n7zDE9-mBD/s400/3stooges.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then there is the <b>Over-zealous inspector</b>.
Often, they specialized in a trade before becoming inspectors. They have
a nasty habit of making mountains out of molehills – especially in the trade
they used to be in. Many
don’t have a holistic understanding of homes and how the various systems
interact. They tend to only focus on their one area of expertise and they often miss
the “Big Picture”. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>The Best Inspector is an experienced </b></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Certified Professional Inspector</a>. </b></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">They have a well-rounded construction
background and the ability to effectively
communicate their findings to you. They won’t miss a thing and they’ll supply
your Realtor with the information they need to negotiate on your behalf. They’ll
get you the facts that will help you to make a good decision now –
and be comfortable with that decision in the future.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">How do you find the Best Home Inspector? </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Your Realtor
knows who it is! But why do so many Real Estate agents not give you the name of
that best Inspector? It’s because of a very persistent myth. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Realtors are terrified of a</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> Negligent Referral lawsuit. T</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">he most common way Real Estate agents protect themselves
against this unlikely event is they give you a list of three home inspection
companies because they've been told it reduces their liability. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But the reality is, the chance that referring an experienced </span><a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;" target="_blank">Certified Professional Inspector</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> will result in a lawsuit is about the same as being struck by lightning the same day you win the lottery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I understand where this seems to make sense</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">. If they tell you to hire an inspector that disappoints
you, it can come back to bite them in the form of a lawsuit. But Realtors actually create
liability for themselves in referring three Inspectors instead of the best one they
know. They’re asking you to play the lottery when they already know the
winning number!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do you trust your Realtor? If you don’t,
fire them and get another one. If you
do, ask them who the Best Inspector is that they know, and trust in that Realtor's expertise and the Inspector they recommend will be the best choice to work hard on your behalf.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioNuH4TUr0WE7bqAeQd9QBJYhI0dnND0AV2HGKm8SJiw-NSovcU0C21RhfGA3-9vYMaoOXwvMjnExpNRZ2lnwTfbsq7wihTvaU8WyWPhpZK_iE5MfNopcsKDTKdfUi0HmSYshbi-Apfwcq/s1600/Observer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="300" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioNuH4TUr0WE7bqAeQd9QBJYhI0dnND0AV2HGKm8SJiw-NSovcU0C21RhfGA3-9vYMaoOXwvMjnExpNRZ2lnwTfbsq7wihTvaU8WyWPhpZK_iE5MfNopcsKDTKdfUi0HmSYshbi-Apfwcq/s400/Observer.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Your Realtor is like a General going to
battle for you.</b> The Inspector you hire is their Forward
Observer who gathers intel so they can best fight that
battle. I</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">f you get the
home you want for a price that is fair, y</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">ou will be their customer for life</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. Of course they will help you pick the best Team to serve you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What do you hope will be the best outcome of
your home inspection?<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You may hope that the inspector finds
nothing wrong with the house, the negotiations go smoothly and you live happily
ever after. One can dream, right? Yes, I’ve found that 4-leaf clover. If
there’s nothing wrong with a house, I turn my focus
to showing you how to maintain and monitor your home to keep it good
condition. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But almost every home has some issues.
Honestly, the best outcome is to find and identify all the issues with the
home, and to document them in a fashion so your Realtor can negotiate
skillfully on your behalf. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What do you fear could be the worst outcome?<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Buying a home is always stressful, especially at the time of the inspection. You’ve invested so much time and
energy to find this home and now you worry that the inspector will find a
“show-stopper” like a bad foundation or a sacred burial
ground in the basement and the deal will be killed. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These are even rarer than the “perfect
home”, but they do happen. Sometimes
it’s best to run – not walk – away from a home with serious problems. That’s
why you’ve hired a Realtor you trust. That's why you insist on the <a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Best Inspector</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You’ll find a better house, and
when you get through the inspection and finally settled in, you can sleep well, because you know that you hired the best team that wasn't afraid to go to battle to find The Perfect Home for You. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Website</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-31825089999955573712017-10-03T07:20:00.000-07:002017-10-03T08:48:55.253-07:00<h2 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.1; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;">
Halloween Is Home Maintenance Time:</span></h2>
<h2 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.1; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;">
Don't Be Afraid!</span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh862dDKrc_LTOmKYTkd6-9rb6aVRZPL6_hYwq6jAcgERGm-dEs85sjWQl2tpKPsXQIGEG09tFZv1TJO_v1gxyKllpv9cFl-M0jKzH8eQITCHV76Kz0u1z_lNGhou9xAl47OE2xenmklpiK/s1600/Happy-Halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="850" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh862dDKrc_LTOmKYTkd6-9rb6aVRZPL6_hYwq6jAcgERGm-dEs85sjWQl2tpKPsXQIGEG09tFZv1TJO_v1gxyKllpv9cFl-M0jKzH8eQITCHV76Kz0u1z_lNGhou9xAl47OE2xenmklpiK/s640/Happy-Halloween.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Spooky sounds and strange odors are part of the season. They are your home's way of telling you that it's ready for some care. </b></span><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Monsters in the Attic</span></u></b><br />
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<b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic35L33N4bPVMotumJnZ3E-4yCCRRXtpLLzoe1jlxRs6Q_VMKpeC7J-FxjLnwpVZz-axjeu5EwFx-aPoYDyRL2GcTvftlgvZ4fSUJo7PMhVFlar8IDIVWEVFeOpLvk238Pg80GImTO-dPS/s1600/rac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="510" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic35L33N4bPVMotumJnZ3E-4yCCRRXtpLLzoe1jlxRs6Q_VMKpeC7J-FxjLnwpVZz-axjeu5EwFx-aPoYDyRL2GcTvftlgvZ4fSUJo7PMhVFlar8IDIVWEVFeOpLvk238Pg80GImTO-dPS/s200/rac.jpg" width="170" /></a></u></b></div>
<b><u>
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The fall is a time when many creatures are looking for suitable places to spend the winter. Make sure your roof vents are covered with screens or you may have creepy critters move into your attic where they can create real havoc. Raccoons and squirrels can chew wires and potentially start a fire! It's a good idea to trim trees that are close to your home so that these little "Monsters" don't have an easy path to your roof.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">What is that Ghastly Smell?</span></u></b><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><br /></span></u></b>Now that it's cooler out and our windows are closed, you may notice strange odors that you've not noticed before. Identifying them is key to having a healthy home that doesn't become a graveyard. Let's put on our sleuthing hats and take the mystery away.<br />
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Many smells are obvious - like the smell of burning dust coming from your furnace. It's been awhile since it's been used and that burning dust smell is an indication that you should have your annual HVAC tune and clean. A clean and lubricated furnace is much less likely to have an untimely death. <br />
<br />
If it's more of a rotten egg smell - don't go down in the basement! Natural gas is odorless, but they add butyl mercaptan to give it that distinctive smell to alert you to any leaks. Go to a neighbor's house and call your gas utility to check on your gas lines and connections. Most utility companies will perform a safety check for little or no cost. Better safe than sorry!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PfJmiFNnqlzQBGar9k1RuHLiCYHJg1DVEmshfFcgVK9OA0uC8bHE_Bi8ecB0MV1XHQIDUXvx-0na5JCKnTzBAQMBWzI0Wd9-RI83WleaK9hrz3Kh4oCmJAbBAxCYdKUbJQ2EcsekjvVq/s1600/fp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="225" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PfJmiFNnqlzQBGar9k1RuHLiCYHJg1DVEmshfFcgVK9OA0uC8bHE_Bi8ecB0MV1XHQIDUXvx-0na5JCKnTzBAQMBWzI0Wd9-RI83WleaK9hrz3Kh4oCmJAbBAxCYdKUbJQ2EcsekjvVq/s320/fp.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">The Haunted Fireplace</span></u></b><br />
<br />
Have you smelled burnt wood, but there's no fire? It could be your fireplace. This Ghost Odor may be caused by a poorly sealing damper. The outside air can come back down the chimney, bringing old burnt wood smells with it. Have a qualified fireplace service person clean your chimney and make sure that your damper is in good working order. You’ll get rid of the smells and you might save on your energy bill, too.</div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Creaking and Groaning</span></u></b></div>
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<br />
Is it a Ghost wandering the halls? Goblins trying to open the windows? Most likely, it's your home shrinking and settling. Wood is dynamic, and it will grow and contract with temperature and humidity changes. Pops and squeaks happen when different materials expand or contract at different rates. This is a good reminder to check your caulking and weather stripping. Caulk seals will fail because of this movement and will result in a drafty home.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Some noises come from vents for bathrooms and clothes dryers. They often have dampers at the sidewalls of the house. These flaps sometimes move and rattle in the wind. Often, they are held partially open from the buildup of lint. A good cleaning and lubrication will often stop them from scaring you awake in the middle of the night.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Rest In Peace</span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div>
Winter is coming, don't let it be a frightening time. Your home can keep you safe and warm. All it asks in return is that you give it a little TLC. Most maintenance can be done by yourself, some should be deferred to a specialized tradesperson. But don't forget, an ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Website</span></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-17998303802732672112017-09-07T11:45:00.000-07:002017-09-08T09:55:37.743-07:00 There's a Nip in the Air...<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You can feel the seasons changing.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpp5Fi6j9tJWvnSplxYmtzUz33oGUbirT-h9VyJIBGgC_nbc9IHI-KGsOP47ENiT2Iiv_0qI5oJblqcIHRStiZt5wu4Mea5V4ksBsOt5G8U6TTKCrDhcDcMsQjYjgdnlxIR3kAaIAWp7f/s1600/gas+fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpp5Fi6j9tJWvnSplxYmtzUz33oGUbirT-h9VyJIBGgC_nbc9IHI-KGsOP47ENiT2Iiv_0qI5oJblqcIHRStiZt5wu4Mea5V4ksBsOt5G8U6TTKCrDhcDcMsQjYjgdnlxIR3kAaIAWp7f/s400/gas+fireplace.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">With the coming of Fall, your mind turns to Home and Hearth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
My mind turns to inspecting fireplaces!<br />
<br />
Most modern fireplaces - whether they're wood burning or Natural Gas - are pretty safe and trouble free. As a Home Inspector, the type that gives me the most issues is a wood burning fireplace that has been converted to gas.<br />
<br />
These are popular because they are relatively inexpensive and, if you're handy, fairly easy to install. But all too often I'm inspecting a home where these logs have been installed by someone who is less than handy, and the result can be disasterous.<br />
<br />
I find the gas line is frequently pulled in through the wall of the firebox by way of a jaggedly punched hole. This is a recipe for disaster. Flames or super-heated gasses can be drawn back through the hole and start a smouldering fire inside the wall cavity that may not ignite into a full blown fire for hours or days! That pipe line has to be sealed tight!<br />
<br />
Another common issue is the damper on the original fireplace <b>must</b> be clamped into the "open" position. This prevents dangerous Carbon Monoxide gas from coming back into the living space. A wood fire would warn you that the damper is closed by causing the room to fill with smoke, but that doesn't happen with gas logs. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1se76Inz67DFPkh022TycB0Uy54NSDdjmasF6LsOqZ6bp2BowYBdWcweaOzyeFWwmUWejrNWljQOAcTRkC1kg_2wdEIOh257LiKmRvGGX9JywnNv9gsg2AvC3UjWMlh-P-YjQBUx5kbaw/s1600/flue-sentinel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1se76Inz67DFPkh022TycB0Uy54NSDdjmasF6LsOqZ6bp2BowYBdWcweaOzyeFWwmUWejrNWljQOAcTRkC1kg_2wdEIOh257LiKmRvGGX9JywnNv9gsg2AvC3UjWMlh-P-YjQBUx5kbaw/s200/flue-sentinel.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Automatic Damper<br />
for Gas Log Fireplaces</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A big down side of your damper being locked open is that precious warm air (and the money that heated it) flows out of the house through the chimney whether there is a fire or not. This will create cold drafts throughout your home as well.<br />
<br />
Not exactly the "snuggly fire" scenario you had in mind, is it?<br />
<br />
An option that will help is having an automatic damper installed. This little wonder will set you back a few dollars, but by sealing off the chimney when not in use, you'll save money in the long run through lowered heating costs.<br />
<br />
A better option may be to have a Glass Front installed. The best kind is a sealed unit, but you will have to allow for combustion air for your gas logs to burn. A more affordable (but less efficient) option is purchasing a glass door that is opened while the fire is burning, but closed when the fire is out to keep unwanted drafts to a minimum.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHL6_WrYsJQjlMU_-McOM0E590JDoQFWujs04blN5lMeQm50H680gFZcNMVenInrPGkP95H47ZUCsi2QNCVq03izuxYQItaZSZhCFD1T88vIhtIrD-QPmNS5rwGDMRJ666hl-7jTL4I0jA/s1600/glass+door.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="325" data-original-width="565" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHL6_WrYsJQjlMU_-McOM0E590JDoQFWujs04blN5lMeQm50H680gFZcNMVenInrPGkP95H47ZUCsi2QNCVq03izuxYQItaZSZhCFD1T88vIhtIrD-QPmNS5rwGDMRJ666hl-7jTL4I0jA/s400/glass+door.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Before you settle in for a romantic evening of hot cocoa and cookies, make an appointment with a fireplace specialist to make sure your fireplace is ready for the season. There's a lot of options out there for a safe and cozy fireplace, and the first step is to know your fireplace is a safe one. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy!<br />
<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/" target="_blank">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Website</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-75787307253980903892016-12-18T12:32:00.001-08:002017-09-08T09:55:50.094-07:00Waive the Inspection? Not So Fast...<span style="font-size: large;">"Honey, I've got a friend that knows a lot about houses..." </span><br />
<br />
"Let's get him to come look this house over and we can save the cost of a Professional Inspector. We can pay my friend in pizza and beer!"<br />
<br />
Sounds good, right? We all like to save where we can. But getting a Cheap Home Inspection can be the most expensive purchase you make - or worse.<br />
<br />
Last week I inspected a home for a young couple and it turned out well. I didn't find anything of note to be alarmed about. Newer water heater, well maintained furnace, a roof that was less than a year old - this was a perfect starter home. As part of my inspection services, I always walk my clients through their homes and teach them how to take care of the various systems so that they can save money down the road through preventative maintenance. I show them what I look for in my inspection, so they can be on the lookout in the future and head off issues before they become serious problems. This alone is a good value that you will receive from hiring a good home inspector.<br />
<br />
I was thrilled when I got a call the next day from my client's mother, who was buying a home as well (the whole family was relocating from California). She initially had waived her inspection (at the advice of her Realtor!), but she told me that her daughter had such a good experience with me that she thought she'd benefit from what I could teach her about her new home.<br />
<br />
Similar scenario. The home looked well maintained. A recently cleaned furnace, a new kitchen remodel, a newer roof - all things that show well and give confidence to a buyer. But what I found still gives me nightmares.<br />
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This is the exhaust from the furnace. It had become separated and deadly Carbon Monoxide laden gas was being pumped into the crawl space. No CO detectors in the home. Imagine moving into your new home, turning up the furnace and going to bed after a long day of moving in - only to never wake up. Unbelievable scenario? It could have been all too real. If there were any survivors, they could spend the rest of their heartbroken lives suing the Realtor for negligence in their advice to forego the inspection. </div>
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Secondly, I discovered this - way back in the crawl space. Not deadly, but left undiscovered it could have resulted in thousands of dollars in flood damage.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXvKGZx-Y2dZyt4idpXELkkvNisbJcROzdeG2H_r5ZFaYDd6yt2lFmFlDkJm0dZrf-GB2ffB9dB9nudVAwIq3-R_6WyO4COkAi4Que7owbDytS42QG0j-vhN5OeVRQgguS2HJ-C15NXkY/s1600/IMG_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXvKGZx-Y2dZyt4idpXELkkvNisbJcROzdeG2H_r5ZFaYDd6yt2lFmFlDkJm0dZrf-GB2ffB9dB9nudVAwIq3-R_6WyO4COkAi4Que7owbDytS42QG0j-vhN5OeVRQgguS2HJ-C15NXkY/s320/IMG_0034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Sellers disclosed that they had a new water line brought in from the street. Good, right? But the new copper was attached to the 50 year-old galvanized water lines, and in many places they were so corroded that they could have literally burst just by looking at them too hard.</div>
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I'm not going to go over the other 40 pages of discovery in my report, but let's just say that it contained a wealth of information that any homebuyer would want to know, regardless of whether or not it would have raised an inspection objection at the closing.</div>
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So next time you are tempted to save $400 by forgoing an inspection - think twice. Even if there are no problems to be discovered, the value of the walkthrough with your inspector and the peace of mind of knowing the condition of your new home are worth the minimal investment in a Professional Inspection, don't you think?</div>
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<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Web Site</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-6235405187855779442016-11-15T10:04:00.000-08:002017-09-08T09:56:17.167-07:00A Hammer Treats Every Problem as a Nail<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyQ9k5q9tEGF3bHAzg9I1p9R-sbftsTzD_lsMDcxXSIMZp70fnpS-W5SlcpF70Xvy8sG14XUpEaON1tntHCvWrc9Zm_GodEM8Cc3NaxyVaCJLRjfVy08BhQrtMP_6cr7_4hsNqEL2FXW6/s1600/EggHammer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyQ9k5q9tEGF3bHAzg9I1p9R-sbftsTzD_lsMDcxXSIMZp70fnpS-W5SlcpF70Xvy8sG14XUpEaON1tntHCvWrc9Zm_GodEM8Cc3NaxyVaCJLRjfVy08BhQrtMP_6cr7_4hsNqEL2FXW6/s320/EggHammer.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Who is the Best Home Inspector for You?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
I performed a condo inspection that was attended by the client's Realtor (the client was not present). I asked if he had any more sales coming up (I was fishing for more referrals). He told me that he only had houses - not condos, and that he always referred an Inspector who was also a Structural Engineer to inspect houses. He went on to explain that when inspecting "he doesn't charge for being an Engineer unless he finds a structural problem. Then he'll contract the client for his engineering services." <br />
<br />
Then he tells me "I've got a few homes right now with structural issues…"<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But several homes – all with structural issues?<br />
<br />
I’m not here to deride his Inspector / Engineer, but the Realtor’s last comment about having a few homes with structural issues – all “discovered” by this Inspector – leaves me wondering. Out of the last 150 homes I’ve inspected, maybe five have had structural issues. Some were obvious, like a concrete porch pulling away from the main house. Some less so, for instance a crack in a foundation that had been “repaired” with caulk and the crack appeared to be still enlarging. In my report, I noted the appropriate action to be taken (call a concrete contractor for the former and consult with a Structural Engineer for the latter).<br />
<br />
Let’s compare it to a different scenario. Let's say the Inspector also was a licensed HVAC tech. That’s fine and good – most Inspectors have some sort of construction background. But wouldn’t it raise your eyebrows if a large percentage of the homes he inspected were determined to have defective furnaces and the Inspector offered (for an extra fee) to fix or replace the furnace?<br />
<br />
Home Inspectors are Generalists. We are trained to look at your home as a system. We note problems as we see them. We know where to look for trouble spots in all the systems of your home. When we see an issue with a specialized system, our report often advises calling in a specialist. We discover and advise – and we adhere to a strict Code of Ethics so that there is no chance there could be – or appear to be – a conflict of interest between what we discover in our inspections and our ability to repair them for profit.<br />
<br />
Having an Inspector with specialized skills can be a plus, but keep in mind the old saying: "A hammer treats every problem as a nail". Make sure that he or she is also a Certified Professional Inspector. The best skill your Inspector can have is an ability to accurately and objectively communicate to you and your Realtor the condition of the home you are about to purchase. A Certified Professional Inspector is trained to look at your home as a system and to give you an unbiased and objective analysis of your home that you and your Realtor can use to negotiate the final cost of your investment. So be very skeptical of any problems "discovered" by your Inspector that he or she offers, for a fee, to fix. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Web Site</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-59909789131337376012015-03-13T12:02:00.000-07:002018-01-24T06:35:44.022-08:00Zen and the Art of Furnace Filters<h2>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Check Your Furnace Filter Lately?</span></h2>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgn5SBRBBIBeItpwyNFIsMx9GGmS8qEkctB8QYb0Z7Sxser5zhYg5TaJrEUN8OlvG6GplJlAJp2zaNCvGbmLYi4GnXFgtuYTaiYqzn9G6Kj7pgDSH5461tK189L35YwMGBnB1CUfPvlnu/s1600/fancy-schmancy+Pleated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgn5SBRBBIBeItpwyNFIsMx9GGmS8qEkctB8QYb0Z7Sxser5zhYg5TaJrEUN8OlvG6GplJlAJp2zaNCvGbmLYi4GnXFgtuYTaiYqzn9G6Kj7pgDSH5461tK189L35YwMGBnB1CUfPvlnu/s1600/fancy-schmancy+Pleated.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>LEFT: When it's new RIGHT: Soon thereafter!</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><u>I didn't think so.</u></i><br />
<br />
I check a LOT of filters as a home inspector and it's become pretty obvious to me that it is a very low priority for almost everybody. <br />
<br />
Every now and then, most homeowners peruse a Big Box Home Improvement store and see the aisle dedicated to filters, and the thought occurs to them that <i>just maybe</i> they should buy one of those things.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
But you're not really sure of the size or type and so the thought just drifts away - like a Zen Master's thoughts of the world leave during meditation. On to see if the tulip bulbs are on sale...<br />
<br />
I'm laying down the Challenge. Go to your basement and record the size of the filter. Then look at the filter that's in there. YUCK! I know. It's okay - we still love you even though your filter is dirty. But to get your Zen on, you need to get with the flow.<br />
<br />
And I'm talking about Air Flow! Chances are, you've got a fancy-schmancy pleated type filter that is so clogged it looks like Oscar the Grouch's backside. When you bought it, it probably had a picture of Bob Villa or some other demi-god of home repair on it and you <i>trusted</i> it - after all it also had "High Efficiency" written all over it too.<br />
<br />
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, the way you should treat your inside air is with a room HEPA unit. Your furnace filter is designed for the furnace's efficiency, not to cure your hay fever! The fancy-schmancy pleated ones are fine, just as long as you check them every month and change them when they are dirty and clogged. But when we turn our eyes inward and are truly honest with ourselves - we don't and won't do that! If we're good (and far better than most) we'll schlep down to the furnace every six months and check it. <br />
<br />
So do yourself a favor and make a special trip to the Big Box store just for filters and buy yourself a dozen LOW EFFICIENCY (yes I said it) CHEAP (yes I said that too) furnace filters of the fiberglass type and change that sucker. You have the right size written on a scrap of paper or, if you're like me, you've got a picture on your iPhone of the right size.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5oS6CpxxZvgmCalhXzFgK5KNkT2Uejd3qwcxO72RFZriYyE7y2KaqqSDPDZjkD2P2oS-fgDYf2Fd49dl17VQ170qrv3SvRG35Pq2Wt3J91hY3yZd8MMHwE_Mk5srb58B9wnPjKXRn19V/s1600/Good+and+CHEAP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5oS6CpxxZvgmCalhXzFgK5KNkT2Uejd3qwcxO72RFZriYyE7y2KaqqSDPDZjkD2P2oS-fgDYf2Fd49dl17VQ170qrv3SvRG35Pq2Wt3J91hY3yZd8MMHwE_Mk5srb58B9wnPjKXRn19V/s1600/Good+and+CHEAP.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>IMHO The Best Bet</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The fiberglass type filters are designed for your furnace. They stop the size particles that will damage your fan motor and clog the fins on your condensers. The fancy-schmancy pleated ones are really good - and <i>if you can commit </i>to checking and changing them <b>often</b>, probably the best way to go. But most of us have more pressing issues on our minds (for instance: is the DVR set to record 'Dancing With the Stars'?) <br />
<br />
You want your Furnace to Breathe in Deeply and it will appreciate you for your caring. It will live longer and run more efficiently if the filter isn't clogged - and you'll save money from it not having to run as long <i>and</i> from not buying the fancy-schmancy pleated filters, so <i>you</i> can breathe easy!<br />
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<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">Visit Metro Home Inspection's Web Site</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07157059205850275141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1630973618693356505.post-16145370251527236562015-03-02T17:36:00.001-08:002018-01-23T08:54:02.792-08:00What Really Matters<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Big Four<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-I1TxH0nQLY02SkTWnTHvX9sBZJm-Wr36b9RwaP7ccG6qJQRUAq7eXObhAAiRWppNmX1pLNUO4qtC8w2aoHsFIj4wGq7NdSzGZIm2DJ58rMC9Q1xZHcjjtv-hZoeiWOEWTwzyw48MBee/s1600/Broken+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-I1TxH0nQLY02SkTWnTHvX9sBZJm-Wr36b9RwaP7ccG6qJQRUAq7eXObhAAiRWppNmX1pLNUO4qtC8w2aoHsFIj4wGq7NdSzGZIm2DJ58rMC9Q1xZHcjjtv-hZoeiWOEWTwzyw48MBee/s1600/Broken+House.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>A few issues </b>show up over and over again in Home Inspections I
perform. From my perspective, a home that needs a little caulking or minor cosmetic updates is no
reason to back out of buying your next home. However, some things that come up
during a home inspection should be addressed before finalizing a home
purchase. Below are some issues that
should not be overlooked. All too often I see buyers panic - but the
solutions are usually simple!</div>
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<b><u>Roofs<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Old shingles, poor flashing, and water stains on interior
ceilings are all signs that the roof may need to be replaced. Multiple layers of shingles are no longer
allowed on homes. The removal of layers
of old shingles can make roofing replacement an expensive undertaking. Make sure the roof inspection is thorough. If the roofing is found lacking, it's not necessary to scuttle the whole deal. Get
estimates on roofing replacement and work that into your counter-offer. After all, knowing that you have a brand new
roof on your new home should actually make it easier to sleep at night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Electrical</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many homes were built before modern code requirements of
GFCI and Arc-Fault circuits were required. This is not a reason to panic. GFCI outlets in wet locations and
basements are easy and inexpensive to install. An outdated or overloaded Main
Panel may be much more expensive though.
If your home was built in the early 1970’s or before, your Main Panel
could be ready for an update. Your Home Inspector should be certified by a
leading agency such as International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
(InterNACHI), and they will be able to advise you on whether or not this is a
concern. If it is, again the solution
can be easier than the problem. A
qualified electrician can come up with a firm bid to update your panel if
necessary. Again, no need to panic, but
Knowledge is Security, and is a powerful tool in negotiating the right price for your
home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Plumbing</u></b> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are four parts to plumbing: Water supply, Hot water, Drains and Vents. The Water supply coming from the street should be looked at and evaluated right away - especially in Denver. Some homes are still connected via lead pipes - we're talking Ancient Roman level of technology. Sometimes they are connected using Galvanized steel pipe. That can be trouble, but not necessarily. The sooner it's switched to copper tubing, the better, but make sure the transition is done with a Dielectric Union - a type of fitting that uses a plastic bushing to prevent two dissimilar metals from contacting and causing corrosion.<br />
<br />
Hot water is something we take for granted - until we don't have any! An inspector can tell you if there are any causes for concern with your water heater. Drains are also critical. A common source for leaks, they are often victims of corrosion or loose joints - especially the "Pretty Chrome" ones. Sometimes that chrome hides a drain that's rusted from the inside out. Nobody thinks about vents - but a clogged vent pipe can slow down a drain as much as a clogged P-trap, and sometimes lead to siphoning a P-trap dry which can lead to sewer gasses in the home. A gurgling noise or slow drains may be caused by the lack of proper drain venting. A good Home Inspector will check for this. </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Foundation<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cracks in walls and sticking windows and doors can be signs
of structural damage. Careful examination by an experienced Home Inspector can determine if they
are just minor settling issues experienced by all homes - or if they justify further
examination. Choosing a Home Inspector
that is familiar with the area that you live in can greatly decrease the chance of a
misdiagnosis. Would you want to give up on
buying your home for a drywall crack that can be repaired for under $50?
Perhaps sanding away a little paint is all you need to free up sticky doors and
windows. Most of Denver is built on sandy loam - an excellent base for building a sturdy home. Some areas have bentonite clay in the soil - which has expansive qualities that can wreak havoc on a foundation. A home Inspector that is familiar with your area may give you clearer insight on this localized problem, and whether your foundation is designed for the soil it's sitting on. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>The Bottom Line</u></b></div>
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Every home has an issue or three. If the home fits your lifestyle and is in an
area you would like to call home, don’t “throw the baby out with the
bathwater”. From my perspective, I see common issues such as these all too often get blown all out of proportion. Granted, I'm pretty handy and very familiar with home construction, so my comfort level is higher than someone who perhaps is not as handy as I am. I just don't want you to miss out on what can be the perfect home for you once you get past a few of these types of issues. Yes, there are some problems
that will make you want to walk away.
But with the information gained from having your potential future home
inspected, you are in a good position to fairly negotiate with the seller and
end up owning the home of your dreams. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Visit my site at:</div>
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<a href="http://www.metrodenverhomeinspection.com/">MetroDenverHomeInspection.com</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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