Recalled Cadet Heater When a home inspector inspects a home, their goal and responsibility is to identify visible health or safety defects. Because there are millions of recalled products in the United States, it is not possible nor required by state law for home inspectors to identify recalled products in a home. [...]
Retaining walls are an important building component that help to secure the ground around a home. They are commonly installed when a home is built on a hillside, and where the hillside is cut to create a flat spot for the home or yard. They are also used where basement stairwells or window wells [...]
How to fix a loose toilet bowl. Toilets are an essential part of a home’s plumbing system and provide a sanitary way to remove waste and direct it into the sewer or septic system. However, like all household systems, they can occasionally need to be repaired or replaced. One of the most [...]
Wood destroying organisms. Pests are a common problem for homeowners across the country and can come in many different forms such as mice, rats, raccoons, spiders, snakes, and wasps. However, there is a group of pests that can cause significant structural damage and directly impact the structure of a home. This group [...]
Missing insulation can lead to ice dams. Water is one of the most damaging factors that contribute to the deterioration of a home and when it comes in the form of ice, the results can lead to a significant number of problems. Ice can not only damage the rainwater management system (gutters [...]
Leaking hose bibb. Leaking hose bibbs can waste a significant amount of water and can lead to significantly higher water bills when left unchecked. In addition, leakage at exterior fixtures have the added hazards of directing water towards a foundation, which can lead to moisture intrusion into the basement or crawlspace, as [...]
Homes are designed to keep many things out including water, excessive heat or cold, inclement weather, and pests. While homes are good at keeping most of these things out, there are always some chinks in the armor. Pests in a home are generally described as an animal that can cause harm to a home [...]
A GFCI, or “ground-fault circuit interrupter” outlet is an electrical device found in homes that are designed to increase electrical safety in areas that are exposed to moisture. A GFCI is a fast-acting circuit breaker that is designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground fault. For instance, if for [...]
In homes with attached garages, there are certain safety considerations that should be made in order to ensure that safe conditions exist for the occupants. Garages are great for storing vehicles, and are also often used to house combustion appliances such as gas furnaces or water heaters. Although this may be convenient, having combustion [...]
Using ceramic or stone tiles in a home is a great way to create an aesthetically pleasing space. Tiles can provide a durable water resistant barrier on floors, walls, and in shower or bath enclosures. With so many color and textured options, tiles surfaces can allow a home to be unique and beautiful. Grout [...]
