PineBreeze Inspections

How Colorado Summers Affect Your Foundation

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It tends to get toasty in Colorado during the summertime. The summers here can be brutal, with temps going over 90 degrees most of the time, and it often stays pretty warm until mid-September. Luckily, due to the high elevation, Colorado does not have to deal with oppressive humidity. But how does the hot weather affect the foundation of Colorado residents’ homes?

As the heat in Colorado can become overbearing, it can cause damage to the soil on your property and problems if you have a concrete slab foundation. Slab foundations are standard in Colorado and susceptible to damage when hot conditions arise. This soil damage or shrinkage often occurs when temps reach 90 degrees or higher; with a lack of rain, the soil can move away from the slab foundation because it’s so dry. It can also cause the concrete of your foundation to crack.

Also, you should not be concerned about just the summer. During the spring and winter months, when it’s colder and there tends to be more snow, you should check that there isn’t too much moisture surrounding your homes, such as standing water or puddles. It’s best to ensure water drains away from your house year-round, as too much water buildup can cause foundation problems.

Sinking Foundations and Dehydration

The soil around your house usually tends to be moist, so when dehydration occurs during a heatwave, the soil shrinks, cracks, shifts, and eventually fails to support your foundation. This is also known as settling.

Once settling starts, it will continue to do so until the foundation finds some form of support. So, if the soil has moved from your home due to the heat, the house will shift until it finds firm soil to re-establish itself. One to two months of such heat can be disastrous, and the after-effects will be damage not only to your foundation, such as slight sinking, but also to your home with the evolution of cracks in the floors, walls, and elsewhere.

If you suspect possible foundation damage, you should do routine checks inside and outside your home for the following:

  • Possible cracks in the slab foundation
  • Uneven floors
  • Cracks in walls
  • Cracks in door and window frames
  • Stuck doors and windows

How To Avoid Foundation Issues

What’s quite fascinating is that this issue can be helped with a straightforward ingredient: water. Adding water around your home’s foundation has been proven to help prevent shifting and settling.

One method to keep the soil moist is to use soaker hoses. These are primarily used for gardening and don’t operate like a traditional hose. They’re also known as ‘weeping hoses’ because the water slowly seeps through the fabric and helps saturate the ground. These hoses should be turned on roughly thrice weekly to keep the ground moist but not oversaturated. If you go this route, keep the hoses 6-22 inches from the foundation. The water will eventually seep into the ground and help keep the soil moist.

You can also run sprinklers if you have them. If you don’t have a built-in set of sprinklers, you can set up a regular garden hose to a portable sprinkler for about 15 minutes so that the water sprays the ground around your house and keeps it wet. It’s best to do this during sunset or once it gets dark because the water will evaporate if it’s done during the daytime when it’s hot. Remember that you may have a slightly higher water bill, but it may be worth it than replacing your foundation at an exorbitant cost.

Colorado Foundation Inspection

Our foundation experts will notice indicators and difficulties that indicate foundation degradation and the need for repair, some of which you may have overlooked or paid little or no attention to. Measurements will be gathered throughout the inspection, and damage and failing spots on the outside and inside of the home will be examined. After that, a strategy for repairing your home’s foundation will be devised. The most crucial thing you may also want to hear is the projected cost of the repairs, which will also be addressed.

Schedule Your Foundation Inspection in Colorado Springs

When searching for the right home inspector, it’s important to find someone you can trust — and that’s why we are here for you. The inspectors at PineBreeze Inspections are licensed by the State of Colorado, certified, and insured. When you need your home’s foundation inspected, you need it done right. Schedule your inspection with PineBreeze Inspections today and rest easy knowing the pros are on the job.

What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?

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Asbestos is largely a thing of the past, but it still comes back to haunt homeowners when it is found and must be removed.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral substance, which was once a common ingredient in construction materials because its fibers are soft and flexible, yet heat and corrosion-resistant. Asbestos is an effective insulator in its pure form and it can be added to other materials to make them stronger. Unfortunately, asbestos’ tiny fibers, which can be pulled into a fluffy consistency, are also what make it highly toxic to humans. The fibers can get trapped in the lungs and body, they never dissolve and are very hard for the body to dispel.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

The same characteristics that make asbestos useful also make it dangerous. The microscopic asbestos fibers can’t be smelled, tasted, or seen, so it’s hard to know if you’ve been exposed to it. When you are exposed to asbestos, the fibers become trapped in your body. Over time, these fibers cause inflammation, scarring, and eventually genetic damage to the body’s cells. Asbestos can lead to numerous types of diseases and illnesses, some of which are hard to recover from. Because of this, the mineral fibers are now recognized as a health hazard and regulated by both OSHA and the EPA.

While no asbestos exposure is ideal, being exposed to asbestos one time isn’t likely to cause issues. The problems occur when you’re exposed on a regular basis, over a long period of time, or to an intense concentration. With each exposure, the level of asbestos in your body accumulates, as it has no way to leave. Right now, there is no way to reverse the damage this causes.

How Can You Be Exposed to Asbestos?

Many people know that it’s possible to be exposed to asbestos in old buildings where it was used. However, because asbestos is not banned in the United States, you can still be exposed to it anywhere it is used. Specific products that may still contain asbestos are listed on the EPA’s website and include some of the following examples:

  • Heat-resistant fabrics
  • Walls and floors around wood-burning stoves
  • Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesives used
  • Roofing and siding shingles
  • Attic and wall insulation that contains vermiculite
  • Textured paint and patching compounds found on walls and ceilings
  • Pipes covered with heat-resistant material

Asbestos-Related Diseases

Asbestosis

Asbestosis, or diffuse pulmonary fibrosis, is a non-cancerous lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers get stuck in the lung, they cause damage and scarring. This damage makes it much harder for the lung to operate. Though asbestosis is not cancerous, it has no cure and can be deadly if left unchecked. Common symptoms of asbestosis include chest pain, loss of appetite leading to weight loss, and shortness of breath.

Long-term deterioration from asbestos fibers hardens the affected person’s lungs. This can deprive them of oxygen and eventually suffocate them. In some cases, lung deterioration can cause other health effects or illnesses to arise. Asbestosis may lead to heart failure or mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma, rare cancer that can form in the linings of the lungs, heart, abdomen, or testicles.

Most cases of mesothelioma are not diagnosed until after cancer has spread to other areas in the body, making it harder to treat. However, if mesothelioma is caught early on, patients may be able to live several years after their diagnosis.

It can take 20-50 years of irritation from asbestos fibers before the symptoms of mesothelioma become noticeable. By this point, cancer may have spread throughout the body.

Those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are encouraged to find out whether they may be eligible for compensation.

Lung Cancer

Asbestos may cause lung cancer if the fibers get trapped in the lungs and cause the formation of malignant (cancerous) tumors.

Approximately 4,000 cases of lung cancer diagnosed each year are caused by asbestos exposure. While lung cancer can be deadly, there are treatment options if it is caught early on. Lung cancer tumors tend to appear as growths, meaning that they can be identified and removed, potentially increasing survival time.

Interstitial Fibrosis

Interstitial fibrosis is a general name that refers to a group of over 200 different chronic lung diseases and disorders, including asbestosis. These disorders are characterized by scarring of the tissue between the air sacs in the lungs, which is often caused by exposure to dangerous airborne materials like asbestos. The two main signs and symptoms for interstitial fibrosis consist of dry cough and Shortness of breath at rest or aggravated by exertion.

Once lung scarring occurs, it’s usually considered to be irreversible. While some medications may slow the damage of interstitial fibrosis, many people never regain full function of their lungs. Depending on the exact disorder, lung transplants may be an option for those suffering from interstitial fibrosis.

Is Asbestos Banned Today?

While 55 countries around the world have banned asbestos — including Germany, Italy, and Japan — asbestos is still not banned in the U.S. as of 2020. The EPA tried to ban asbestos completely in 1989, but a court decision overturned this ruling in 1991.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The best way to protect yourself from asbestos-related diseases is to avoid exposure to asbestos. In the workplace, avoiding high-risk jobs may be impossible. Still, there are regulations put in place now to help. The EPA has been working to protect Americans from the hazards associated with exposure to asbestos, including banning certain asbestos-containing products and materials and the use of these products in the future.

At home, it may be smart to think about hiring someone to do an asbestos inspection and getting them to remove any found. Some other safety precautions to use in order to avoid exposure include:

  • Sealing off any renovation work area with plastic sheets
  • Turning on air conditioners when working
  • Wearing a mask, disposable coveralls, and gloves during debris handling
  • Using a HEPA filter when cleaning
  • Disposing of any potentially asbestos-containing waste safely

No matter the supposed “benefits” of asbestos, the deadly mineral should never be used — there are always alternatives.

What Is A Home Maintenance Inspection?

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Anyone who’s been a homeowner can attest that there’s always something to fix around the house. That’s why it’s recommended to set aside 1%-4% of your home’s value (depending on how old it is) for yearly maintenance.

Maintenance budgeting will help alleviate the pain every time you write a check to repair service. But natural wear and tear on the house can sneak up on you—even if you regularly respond to “fires” like a noticeable plumbing leak or appliance breakdown.

Homes do not have a check engine light. However, there is a reliable way to test your home’s health if you’re willing to be proactive: They’re called home maintenance inspections, and you can think of them as routine doctor’s appointments that help you catch the high cholesterol long before the risk of a heart attack.

What Is A Home Maintenance Inspection?

During a home maintenance inspection, a licensed inspector checks out all the main systems of your home—roof, walls, foundation, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing—and notes anything that might be starting to malfunction.

For example, at a pre-purchase total home inspection, your inspector will walk you through the home, showing you what was found and explaining what it means. You should have a chance to ask questions or get clarifications, and usually, the inspector will point out things you should be doing regularly to keep all of your home’s systems functioning in tip-top shape.

Often, a good inspector can see the little signs that something is starting to go wrong: small cracks, uneven wearing, or even just appliances such as water heaters reaching the eventual end of life. They can also remind you of the regular maintenance you should be doing on your house. Like an annual physical, a maintenance inspection can catch issues early and give you the peace of mind of a clean bill of health.

Afterward, the inspector will create a detailed inspection report and send it to the client within a day or two. This report will include all of the inspector’s findings, from minor issues to major problems. As a homeowner, you can use this report to decide what repairs need to be completed to keep your home in good condition.

Maintenance Inspection Adds Value To Your Home

If you avoid any maintenance or maintenance inspection, imagine what would happen when you tried selling your home. Your home inspection report will show that there are a lot of potential problems in your home. This will, in turn, decrease the value of your home, and buyers will be demanding a discount depending on the issues. You won’t receive as much back for your house, and even worse, you will have to pay a big chunk out of pocket to repair or replace the items that have been worn.

However, if your house is properly maintained, you will accumulate more equity in it, and the value of your home will increase.

Protect Your Family with a Home Maintenance Inspection

Aside from the resale considerations, leaving your home’s appliances unchecked could cause serious harm to your family. For example, if you neglect your furnace, it may develop a clogged vent and begin a dangerous backflow of carbon monoxide into your home.

Making a habit of scheduling regular maintenance inspections can help ensure that your property is kept in good shape and in safe condition for you and your family.

How Much Do Home Maintenance Inspections Cost?

The price for your home maintenance inspection will vary depending on the size of your home. Still, HomeAdvisor reports that the typical range is between $296 and $424 and the national average home inspection cost is $315. However, homes over 2,000 square feet will run more in the $400 range.

If your inspector is also doing additional specialized testing, like radon or mold testing, or checking for termites, you should expect to pay additional fees.

Most home inspectors do not cover these specialized areas. However, your inspector should note in their report if he or she notices any signs of mold or termites (radon requires specialized equipment to detect).

Contact Us For Your Home Maintenance Inspection in Colorado Springs

A home maintenance inspection is an absolute must to keep your family safe, avoid surprises, and get the most value for your home when it comes to selling. Contact us today to book your inspection and learn about potential malfunctions with your home’s appliances. We will get back to you right away. Our team is eager to help you through the home-buying journey in Colorado Springs.

How to Maintain Your Water Heater

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What’s often overlooked is the home’s plumbing system. The condition of plumbing features, especially the shower, water heater, and sewer pipes, can dramatically affect a home’s value.

The size and design of water piping running to and from the water heater are extremely important and can affect aspects like water pressure and water leaks. Our expert home inspector inspects the different elements of the water heater and advises you on what requirements are non-negotiable. If problems occur, here are some water heater repair tips to help keep it working.

3 Reasons To Have Your Water Heater Inspected Regularly

Delaying water heater maintenance is never a good idea. You rely on your water heater for around-the-clock hot water. Imagine how unpleasant showering and bathing will become without it. Here are three good reasons to schedule a yearly professional water heater inspection.

Prevent Major Problems

You’re taking a significant risk by ignoring your water heater. The longer the water heater goes without an inspection, the more likely it is to malfunction. Warning signs, such as corrosion and sediment buildup, are easy to spot during an inspection. You’ll have the chance to address problems before they become beyond repair.

Lower Water Heating Costs

It takes a significant amount of energy to operate a water heater. It’s estimated that a water heating system accounts for up to 18 percent of home energy use. If your system isn’t working properly, it could cost more than you realize. A yearly inspection will keep your water heater operating at peak efficiency.

Protect Your Family

If you have a faulty gas water heater, carbon monoxide leaks are possible. This is extremely dangerous, as the gas is odorless and deadly. Stomach upset, physical weakness, dizziness, and headache are possible indicators of carbon monoxide poisoning. Chest pain, vomiting, and mental fogginess are also symptoms.

3 Ways to Maintain Your Water Heater

Check the Pressure-Relief Valve

Test the pressure-relief valve on the water heater’s top or side. This valve opens automatically if the pressure inside the tank gets too high. (Excess pressure can cause the tank to explode.) To test it, place a bucket below the discharge pipe on your water heater tank and gently lift the lever on the pressure relief valve.

If the valve doesn’t release water when you lift the lever, replace the valve. Replacement is simple: Turn off the water, drain the tank, unscrew the discharge pipe, and unscrew the old valve. Wrap the threads of the new valve with sealant tape and screw it in. If your valve is several years old and has never been tested, it might leak after you test it. In that case, replace the valve.

To check your work, close the shutoff valve on the cold water supply pipe that feeds the water heater. Then turn on the hot water at any faucet to release the pressure inside the heater’s tank. Leave the faucet on until you finish your work. If you have an electric heater, turn off the power at the main panel. With a gas heater, turn the gas control dial to “off.”

Drain Sediments From the Water Heater Tank

Drain the tank to flush out sediments that have settled to the bottom of the tank. Sediment buildup shortens the life of your water heater and adds to your energy bill by reducing its efficiency. Draining two or three gallons of water is usually enough to flush out sediments, but always let the water flow until you no longer see particles in the bucket. Open the drain valve slowly and let the water run until it’s clear and free of sediments.

Check for Strange Noises

Rust, sediment, and mineral buildup in the tank typically cause the hot water heater’s gurgling noises. This is common in older water heaters, which are more prone to rust and buildup. When you turn the shower or faucet on, the hot water in the water heater tank rises to the top for dispersal into your house. It’s replaced by cold water, which needs to be heated in preparation for use. The cold water settles at the bottom of the tank below the hot water. If there’s a lot of scaling or sediment build-up when the heated water rises, it creates a gurgling sound.

Installing a water softener is the best way to prevent calcium deposits from forming not only in your water heater but also in your home’s entire plumbing system. This solution prevents calcium buildup before it occurs, saving you time and money in the long run.

Don’t Wait For Your Hot Water Heater to Break – Call PineBreeze Inspections Today

Before your water heater breaks and you need a costly replacement, schedule an appointment with PineBreeze Inspections. Our master home inspectors will walk you through maintaining your water heater and advise if a replacement is necessary. When you need a water heater inspection, you need PineBreeze.

What does a Well Inspection Entail?

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What’s Involved in Professional Water & Well Inspections?

When you’re in the process of buying a new home, having your water tested is essential. While public water systems are mandated to test and treat their water, these tests only cover the water that has yet to leave the treatment plant. Once it leaves the plant, your water must pass through miles of piping, some of which may be in disrepair or contain lead, before it enters your home’s plumbing system.

Pine Breeze Inspections is equipped to ensure the water in your home is high-quality and safe to consume. Whether you are just moving in or you’re already settled and just recognizing that your water has an abnormal odor, color, or taste, our professional team can confidently assist you.

Protect yourself and your family and contact us today if you have any questions about a water and well inspection for your property or home. We proudly offer service to clients in Colorado Springs.

The Dangers of Low-Quality Water

Not only does low-quality water have an unpleasant taste and smell, but it can also have a number of long-term effects on the body.

Poor water quality can result in several problems, such as:
● Neurological disorder
● Abdominal disease
● Respiratory disease
● Cancer
● Cardiovascular disease

According to the EPA Safe Drinking Water Act, there are two categories of contaminants. Primary contamination encompasses contaminants that have health-related effects. Secondary contamination includes contaminants with aesthetic effects.

Comprehensive Water Inspections For Your Home

Testing the water in your home is the only way to determine potential contaminants and/or biological compounds such as:
● Dangerous levels of bacteria, including E-Coli and Coliform
● Elevated levels of nitrates and nitrites from fertilizers that leach into groundwater
● Imbalances in PH levels
● High fluoride levels
● Mineral contaminants such as iron and arsenic
● Heavy metal contamination such as copper and lead

Professional Well Water Inspections

If you get your water from a private well, you are responsible for scheduling water & well inspection services. Most homeowners who use well water don’t request these services until they decide to sell their property. The EPA highly recommends that well owners schedule water testing
services every year and whenever they suspect an issue. Our certified master inspector will test your well for any traces of pH, total dissolved solids, nitrates, coliform bacteria, chemicals, and any other suspected contaminants. Because well water is not regulated, activity around your water source can change rapidly and impact the overall quality.

Some of the most common sources of contamination in well water include:
● Agricultural activity and the use of pesticides and fertilizers
● Waste from animals and livestock
● Mining and industrial activity
● Household chemicals that have been improperly stored
● Nearby septic tanks or leach fields
● Natural occurrences such as floods, tornadoes, earthquakes and hurricanes

What is a Well Water Quality Test?

A well water quality test is used to check your water for any impurities or contamination. It provides a holistic picture into the content of everything from water bacteria and parasites to heavy metals and organic chemicals. To perform a well water quality test, a certified Pine Breeze inspector will come to your home and collect a sterile sample from your water source. They will typically collect water at the well and from your tap for comparison. This helps to better determine where any potential contamination is coming from and ensure thorough coverage.

Then, the samples of your water will be analyzed for contaminants. In many cases you can get your results within three to five days. After receiving the comprehensive report, your inspector will review it with you and help determine the best course of treatment for any issues identified. Often solutions can be as simple as a well water filtration system

Levels Testing We Offer:

Basic Water Testing

This test is designed as a fast laboratory- precision screen for lead, copper, and high PH levels.

Coliform & E.Coli Screening

This test is performed in a professionally certified laboratory and analyzes a drinking water sample for potentially harmful bacteria. This test checks for the presence of Coliform & E .Coli.

Radon Water Screening

Radon is a known carcinogen with a particular impact on internal organs and the stomach. Various US states suggest levels for radon in drinking water range from 300 to 10,000 pCi/L.

VOC Water Screening

This tests your water for 50+ volatile organic compounds (VOC’s). Many of these are significant health risks and can migrate into your drinking water from a variety of sources such as chlorine disinfection, proximity to waste facilities, proximity to agricultural activity, and much more.

Schedule Your Water or Well Water Inspection in Colorado Springs

Whether well water quality testing is required to buy your dream home or you would like to know more about what you’re drinking, it’s easy to connect with a certified PineBreeze Inspector. Contact PineBreeze Inspections today to schedule your well inspection.

What Should You Look for During a Home Inspection?

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Whether you’re a property agent, a buyer, or a seller, settling on a price for the property calls for a celebration. But it’s not over yet! You need to get the home inspected by a trustworthy home inspector. A home inspector’s responsibility is to determine if a house is safe for dwelling and if any repair or maintenance work is carried out.

Home inspections also help determine whether all the construction standards have been observed. Homebuyers ultimately receive a home inspection report, but it doesn’t have a fail or pass rating.

However, a home inspection differs from a municipal or regulatory home inspection, which is meant to determine if the local building codes have been followed during the construction.  Here’s what you need to know.

Finding A Reliable Home Inspector Or Home Inspection Service

Finding a reliable home inspector is not always easy. Home inspectors and home inspection services in Colorado do not require a license, so it is important to verify whether the home inspector or the inspection service is qualified enough to perform a house inspection.

Choosing an InterNACHI or ASHI-certified home inspection service would be the perfect thing to do. Looking into a sample inspection report prepared by the home inspector is another good practice. A home inspector with work experience in the following fields can also be relied upon:

  • Plumbing
  • HVAC
  • Electrical
  • Framing
  • Roofing
  • Remodels

The Home Inspection Report

After completing the home inspection, the home inspector prepares a report. This report includes detailed descriptions of the house and the home inspector’s suggestions for repair and maintenance work.

The Standard Colorado Real Estate Purchase Contract

The standard Colorado real estate purchase contract requires sellers to compensate buyers if they deem certain conditions unsatisfactory.

The contract also permits buyers to adjust the price of the house they wish to buy or to terminate the contract altogether.

Things To Check While Carrying Out a House Inspection

Home inspectors need to examine every nook and cranny of a house with the utmost attention and care to ensure that it is safe and habitable.

A home inspector needs to:

  • Inspect the outer part of the house and the surroundings.
  • Ensure if the house is situated on solid ground.
  • Note if the house is situated close to things or factors that can affect the integrity of the structure in the long run.
  • Inspect the house foundation
  • Check the exterior walls, roof coverings, gutters, and also plumbing fixtures.
  • Check the conditions of doors, windows, floors, and ceilings.

While inspecting the interiors, home inspectors focus on those corners of a house that might exhibit signs of structural decay or require repairs. For instance, they inspect the basement, including the crawlspace. The other space not to miss out on – the attic!

Top Things You Should Look Out for During a Home Inspection

When buying a house in Colorado, pay attention to the quality of the insulation, the air conditioning system, and the existing electrical system. Your home inspection report will help you look for any issues.

Check the house’s roof condition very carefully. The roof plays a major role in keeping the interior in proper condition. If there are chimneys, vents, or skylights on the roof, the property inspector should also examine them.

You should also keep an eye on the GCFI outlets in the house. If these outlets are non-functional, it is indicative of major electrical issues in the house.

Watch out for improper venting of bathroom fans into the attic, as it might lead to mold growth. Also, check if there are attic air leaks because the presence of attic air leaks could mean that there might be some problems with the insulation system.

The Other Things to Look For In a Home Inspection

  • It is also important to check the water mains and the basement of a house. Watch out for plumbing issues and check if all the bathtubs and shower pans in the house have been tested for leaks.
  • You can also check the furnace filter as it would give you an idea regarding the furnace maintenance in the house.
  • Many home inspectors also offer a few additional services, including radon testing, water testing, and termite inspection.

As a homeowner, get your houses inspected and carry out repairs and other maintenance work before putting up your houses for sale.

How Long Do Home Inspections In Colorado Take?

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The process of buying a house in Colorado is lengthy. Once a house seller accepts a buyer’s offer, the buyer enters into a contract. Then, you can initiate a home inspection.

Home inspections in Colorado can be scheduled immediately after a buyer comes under a contract. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about home inspections in Colorado.

What Is Inspection Objection?

Homebuyers must arrange a home inspection before the “inspection objection.” The objection refers to the date a buyer must inform the seller about the repairs or maintenance work they wish to do in the house.

How Long Does A Home Inspector Require To Complete The Process?

Depending on the kind of home a buyer invests in, home inspections in Colorado may take about 2-3 hours. If the house is big, old, or fixer-upper, the inspection will take longer than 3 hours. Also, a home inspector would need extra time if the sewer scope is included in the inspection process.

Who Should Be Present When A Home Inspection Is Being Carried Out?

A buyer may or may not be present during the home inspection. However, their presence is highly recommended. In a few states, realtors are restricted from attending home inspections as they are believed to exert their influence during the inspection.

Which Parts Of The House Should A Home Inspector Examine?

Home inspectors are expected to examine the following elements of a home:

  • Roof
  • Basement or crawlspace
  • Heating or cooling system
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical system
  • Foundation of the house
  • Walls and ceilings
  • Floors and windows

The home inspection process in Colorado does not include radon testing and sewer scopes. But these are highly recommended. Also, home inspectors will not evaluate the quality of an item or items they cannot access in the house.

How Should The Seller Prepare For A Home Inspection?

Sellers need to ensure that the home inspector and the buyer (if present) can explore every nook and cranny of the house during the inspection. Also, before the arrival of the home inspector, they can do the following:

  • Get all the drains cleaned,
  • Check for any sign of water leakage,
  • Flush all the toilets,
  • Caulk around sinks, windows, doors, and windows,
  • Have the furnace filter replaced,
  • Get all broken bulbs replaced,
  • Ensure the presence of carbon monoxide detectors,
  • Have all the pilot lights turned on,
  • Check if the grading is appropriate and if the water flows away from the house,
  • Ensure the presence of a downspout extension,
  • Ensure that the fuse box is labeled,
  • Have damaged window screens replaced, and so on.

If defects are discovered during the home inspection, a buyer might request that the seller complete all the repairs and maintenance work before closing the deal.

Buyers invest their time, energy, and money in buying and inspecting a house. They may terminate the contract if they find any significant issues. So, sellers must ensure that the house to be sold is safe and habitable.

What Happens After A Buyer Receives The Inspection Report?

A buyer may receive their inspection report on the same day or a few days after. The inspection report will contain all the details along with pictures.

So, if a buyer fails to be present on the inspection day, they need not worry. The inspection report will have all the details they need to know before they finally close the deal.

Home inspectors will also describe and classify all the issues in the report. This can help buyers understand the severity of those issues. For instance, this includes their recommendation after describing each issue in detail.

Occasionally, a home inspector will recommend the buyer to hold another inspection. After carefully reviewing the inspection report, the buyer can decide what they would request the seller to repair.

If no issues are found, the buyer may finalize the deal.

How Can A Seller Address The Problems Found In The Inspection?

The seller can address all the issues in the following ways:

  • They may decide to carry out the repairs on their own,
  • They can hire a contractor to carry out the repairs,
  • They can choose to give some credit to the buyer, with which they can cover future repair costs,
  • The seller can choose not to carry out any repair at all.

Home inspections can take some time, making the entire buying experience lengthy. However, house inspections allow homebuyers to buy a safe and habitable house and prevent their money from going to waste.