Should I Go With The Lowest Quote Inspector?

Not necessarily. While cost is an important factor to consider when hiring an inspector, it should not be the only factor. It is important to remember that the lowest quote may not always be the best choice for your needs. When it comes to hiring an inspector, you want someone who is experienced, qualified, and […]

Laundry and Utility Rooms

Laundry Room:  Watch for leaks and kinks developing at plumbing connections to the washing machine.  Water can overflow from the top or bottom if the machine is overloaded with a load that’s too big, or if it is resting on an uneven surface. Protect the electrical or natural gas connections to the dryer and ensure that […]

Kickout Flashing

Core360homeinspections.com Kickout Flashing

Kickout flashing, also known as diverter flashing, is a special type of flashing that diverts rainwater away from the cladding and into the gutter. When installed properly, they provide excellent protection against the penetration of water into the building envelope. Several factors can lead to rainwater intrusion, but a missing kickout flashing, in particular, often results in concentrated areas […]

Bathtub & Showers

Bathtubs Bathtubs are made from many different types of materials, including enameled cast-iron, porcelain-enameled steel, and plastic. Plastic tubs are made from materials including ABS, PVC, fiberglass, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, acrylic, and cultured-marble acrylic. Bathtubs that are equipped with shower fixtures should be manufactured with slip-resistant surfaces. Bathtubs should have a drainage outlet (tailpiece) with a minimum diameter of 1-1/2 […]

Stairs

Structural Integrity:  All stairs must be kept structurally sound. Don’t forget to examine the basement stairs.  Check the area where they meet the floor and where they are attached to the floor joists above. Stair Width and Clearance:  Stairways should have a minimum headroom of 6 feet and 8 inches, and width of 3 feet. Treads and […]

Interior, Exterior, and Garage Doors

Interior Doors:  Monitor the condition of your home’s doors and door frames, including the interior of entrance doors and storm doors. Check their hardware for finish, wear, and proper functioning. Sticking doors or out-of-square frames may indicate house settlement, which is normal. Exterior Doors:  Exterior doors should be checked often for their condition, operation, and the functionality […]

Crawlspace Safety

Crawlspaces are notorious for the nasty discoveries made there by homeowners, inspectors, and home remodelers, and it isn’t hard to figure out why; for one thing, their cool, dark environment attracts undesirable pests and can promote dangerous conditions. And since the crawlspace is mostly unmonitored, hazards can breed there unchecked for a long time.  Never enter a […]

Landscaping

Well-maintained landscaping and other improvements are important for the enjoyment of a healthy and durable property. Plants, Trees & Shrubs:  Check the location and condition of all trees and shrubbery. Those that are overgrown should be pruned or trimmed. Where trees or bushes have overgrown, complete removal may be necessary. Trees need to be trimmed.  Overhanging […]

Property Drainage

Making sure that your property is sloped to allow proper drainage can mean the difference between a trouble-free rainy season and a flooded basement a few times a year.  Unwanted moisture intrusion—even at a level not serious enough to cause interior flooding—can create insidious problems that will be difficult to completely eliminate, such as weakened […]

The Bathroom Vent System

Bathroom ventilation systems are designed to exhaust odors and damp air to the home’s exterior. A typical system consists of a ceiling fan unit connected to a duct that terminates at the roof.  Ventilation systems should be installed in all bathrooms, including those with windows since windows will not be opened during the winter in […]

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist Spring/Fall

 INTERIOR Check the ceiling and surfaces around windows for evidence of moisture. Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks, and toilet bases. Check ceiling areas beneath bathrooms for leakage. Check all stairs and railings for any loose members. Check all fire and safety systems regularly. Test all smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors regularly. Know the […]