Welcome to Crepps’ Home Inspection blog. That can be stopped, though. Here are some tips from a seasoned inspector on how to prevent home inspections from ending contracts.
During routine home maintenance, identifying and addressing minor issues like gaps around exterior fixtures can prevent unnecessary wear over time. While these gaps are often small, they can be pathways for moisture, potentially leading to subtle damage if left unchecked.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
Keeping up with small maintenance tasks, such as sealing gaps, plays a key role in preserving your home’s integrity and appearance. It’s a simple measure that can prevent the slow ingress of moisture, which, over prolonged periods, might affect the material condition around fixtures.
How to Address the Issue
Sealing these gaps is a straightforward DIY task:
Inspect exterior fixtures for any signs of gaps or separation from the wall.
Choose the right caulking material for outdoor use and for the materials of your fixtures and walls.
Apply the caulk carefully to fill the gaps, ensuring a smooth, waterproof seal.
Check the sealed areas annually as part of your regular home maintenance routine.
Conclusion
By incorporating simple tasks like sealing gaps around exterior fixtures into your home maintenance routine, you can maintain your property’s condition and appearance with minimal effort. Regular attention to such details helps in avoiding the need for more significant repairs in the future and keeps your home looking its best.
Identified Defect: Our recent inspection highlighted the presence of gaps between the trim and masonry around the overhead garage door. While often overlooked, these gaps can be pathways for moisture, potentially leading to damage over time.
Importance and Safety Implications: While the gaps themselves do not pose immediate structural concerns, the potential for moisture intrusion exists. Over time, moisture can compromise the integrity of the surrounding materials, leading to deterioration that, although not structural in nature, may require extensive repairs if left unaddressed. These gaps also offer an entry point for pests, which could lead to further issues within the garage area.
Potential Consequences of Ignoring This Issue: Ignoring these gaps can lead to moisture-related damage above the garage door, a common issue in many homes. While this situation typically does not affect the home’s structural integrity directly, it can lead to unsightly damage and potentially costly repairs down the line. The moisture may also contribute to mold growth, which can have health implications for some individuals.
Addressing the gaps between the trim and masonry is recommended as a preventative measure to avoid moisture-related issues. Sealing these gaps with a suitable sealant can prevent water entry and reduce the risk of pest intrusion. While immediate action may not be necessary, timely attention to this matter can prevent the problem from escalating, making it a wise maintenance decision. For best results, homeowners may consider consulting with a professional to ensure the use of appropriate materials and techniques for a durable and effective seal.
The suction line of an air conditioning (AC) unit can freeze due to a few potential reasons. Here are some common causes:
Low Refrigerant Level: One of the main causes is a low refrigerant level in the AC system. Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air and transferring it outside. When the refrigerant level is insufficient, the pressure and temperature in the evaporator coil (where the refrigerant evaporates) can drop, causing the suction line to freeze.
Restricted Airflow: Restricted or inadequate airflow across the evaporator coil can lead to the suction line freezing. This can occur if the air filter is dirty or clogged, the blower fan isn’t functioning properly, or if there are obstructions around the indoor unit inhibiting airflow.
Thermostat Issues: If the thermostat is set too low or has a malfunction, it can cause the AC system to run excessively, leading to the evaporator coil becoming too cold and the suction line freezing.
Faulty Expansion Valve: The expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil. If the expansion valve is faulty or stuck open, it can cause an excessive amount of refrigerant to flow through the evaporator, leading to the suction line freezing.
Ambient Temperature: In certain weather conditions, particularly in humid climates, if the outdoor temperature drops significantly, the moisture in the air can condense and freeze on the suction line.
If you notice the suction line freezing on your AC unit, it is advisable to turn off the system and contact a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the underlying issue. Continuing to run the AC with a frozen suction line can potentially damage the system and reduce its efficiency.
To clean vinyl siding on your house, you can create a simple and effective washing solution using common household ingredients. Here’s a recipe you can try: Ingredients: Instructions: When using the solution, it’s essential to follow proper safety precautions. Wear protective clothing, gloves, and eyewear, and ensure proper ventilation in the area. Pre-wet the vinyl […]
Uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics can pose a significant danger to homeowners. Not only do they have the potential to clog in the winter and cause the dryer to perform poorly, but they can also lead to fires. Here, we’ll discuss why uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics are dangerous and what homeowners can do to mitigate the risks.
What are uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics?
Uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics are exactly what they sound like: dryer vents made of metal that are located in attics and are not insulated. These types of dryer vents are typically used when it is not feasible to vent a dryer outside through a wall or crawlspace/basement. Instead, the vent is run through the attic and outside through a soffit or gable vent. Most often I’ll find these on a slab home.
Why are they dangerous?
The danger of uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics lies in the fact that they can easily become clogged with lint and debris, especially in the winter months. When the warm, moist air from the dryer meets the cold air in the attic, condensation can occur, which can cause the lint and debris to become wet and sticky. This can lead to clogs and blockages in the vent, which can reduce the efficiency of the dryer and increase the risk of a house fire.
In addition to the risk of clogging, uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics can also lead to health hazards. Lint and debris that are trapped in the vent can create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
What can homeowners do to mitigate the risks?
First important step is to have the metal dryer vent insulated. This will help to prevent condensation from occurring and reduce the risk of clogs and blockages. Insulation can be added to the vent using a variety of materials. It is important to make sure that the insulation is installed properly and does not impede the flow of air through the vent.
There are several things that homeowners can do to mitigate the risks of uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics. As with all dyer vents, have the vent cleaned regularly, ideally at least once a year. A professional cleaning service can remove any lint and debris that has accumulated in the vent and ensure that it is free of blockages.
In conclusion, uninsulated metal dryer vents in attics can pose a significant danger to homeowners. By having the vent cleaned regularly, insulating the vent, and considering replacement options, homeowners can reduce the risks and ensure the safety of their homes and families.
As a real estate agent, a home inspection can be daunting after putting in weeks, months, or even years of effort with a client. While there are various reasons a deal may fail, such as credit issues, appraisal, or buyer’s second thoughts, a failed home inspection is a common cause. However, it can be prevented. Here’s some advice from an experienced inspector’s perspective on how to avoid home inspection leading to contract termination.
Inspectors Are Not Killers
Home inspectors are curious by nature. We like to know how things work, and we enjoy teaching. As a seasoned home inspector with over a dozen years of experience and conducting more than 5,000 home inspections, I’ve observed a common pattern that leads to transaction cancellations. Contrary to what some real estate agents may believe, the house or the inspector is not often at fault. The problem usually stems from the buyer’s expectations needing to align with the home inspection findings.
The client is expecting something different than what the report reveals. They are entering the transaction with the expectation that their 1957 home on a crawlspace is perfect because it has new granite countertops. Imagine their surprise when they discover a long list of issues they’ll need to consider. It may seem tempting to point fingers at the inspector for being too thorough in conveying the house’s condition, but this implies ill intent on the inspector’s part. The better solution is for buyers to understand the property before signing the contract.
I’ve recently dedicated much of my time to creating educational content for agents and clients. I can tell you that out of 5000+ homes, I’ve never wanted to kill a deal. I want to avoid dragging a buyer from house to house. In fact, the third inspection is FREE because I actually would like the buyers to find a home just as bad as they do.
Through my experience, I have identified 3 reasons buyers cancel a deal after the inspection. By being aware of these common pitfalls, agents and buyers can take proactive steps to ensure a smoother transaction.
1.Better Reporting
The home inspection process has undergone significant changes in recent years. The home inspection industry is still evolving, and technological advancements have led to rapid innovation. A quality home inspector now provides buyers with a comprehensive report comprising 40-80 pages of detailed information. Reports often include high-resolution color photos, videos, diagrams, and links to additional resources. And Home inspection resources have greatly increased, and the level of available information is leaps and bounds beyond what was available 12 years ago. I, for one, certainly know more than I did when I started.
This abundance of information and data can be both beneficial and overwhelming for homebuyers. On the one hand, they have access to more information about the home they’re considering than ever before. But on the other hand, they may need help processing all the facts presented in the report.
This is why agents are crucial. They help buyers navigate this information overload, guiding them to make informed decisions during the home-buying process.
2. Unprepared
Unfortunately, there are no courses in high school or college that educate individuals on the workings of a house or identify potential risks in residential buildings. Even professional real estate agents often receive limited training on evaluating properties and detecting issues, mainly relying on on-the-job experiences. This lack of education has become even more pronounced with a new generation of homebuyers who may have yet to have hands-on experience in home maintenance and repair. This lack of knowledge and experience can create challenges for buyers and agents alike.”
3. Expectations
The home buying process has become even more complex with the evolving expectations of buyers. Today’s buyers now demand a higher level of luxury and comfort in their homes, which starkly contrasts with what was considered acceptable just a few decades ago. People want more expensive and sophisticated properties. As a result, the focus is placed on visual aspects, and functional components are neglected. Both when preparing a house for the market or even owning one.
Moreover, the current market conditions characterized by tight inventory and high competition add an extra layer of stress to the buying process. In such a fast-paced environment, buyers have less time to make informed decisions, leading to an increase in multiple offers and impulsive buying. This rush in the decision-making process increases the likelihood of buyer’s remorse.
Real estate agents must be equipped with the right knowledge and skills to guide clients through this complex process, ensuring they make informed decisions and avoid any regrets later on.”
A Better Approach
As discussed, the primary reason why deals fail after a home inspection is due to the mismatch of expectations between the buyer and the actual state of the house. Unfortunately, this can often result in blame being placed on the inspector or the property itself. This is why it’s crucial to approach home inspections with a realistic understanding that all houses have problems. However, the right house is still a great find for the right person.
As a home inspector, I have seen many properties that are in deplorable conditions. I will inevitably write a 100-page report with red flags all throughout. The client will get the report, send me a great review, and buy the house! And here is why they don’t back out… a house in that condition announces that it has significant issues. All the client wants to know is what the issues are. On the flip side, on a well-built little starter home with a handful of deferred maintenance issues, I will write a modest report with zero red flags, and the buyer will walk away. This is because the buyer is not prepared that all homes have issues.
I am asked every day, “Would you buy this house?” And my answer is almost always the same. I joke about it not having enough bedrooms and then say that is not a question I am prepared to answer for you. I don’t know how long you’ve been looking, your finances, or any other qualifiers. I am just here to accurately document the property’s condition so that you can make a well-informed decision on whether to buy it at the desired price.
Are Home Inspectors Sometimes Responsible For Killing Deals
Home inspections are essential to the home-buying process as they thoroughly examine the property. This is done to identify potential issues or red flags that need to be addressed and to educate the homebuyers. A home inspection process is subjective; what one inspector finds to be an issue might be ignored by another. We can often report on the same problem differently. It is important to remember:
Not all reports are the same.
Not all inspectors are the same.
Not all standards are the same.
Inspections are not all-encompassing.
Because of this, there is sometimes a perception that home inspections can hinder the buying process, causing delays and causing deals to fall through. As stated earlier, the difference in a client’s reaction to a report is based on their expectations. Another example would be the more recent practice of making offers where the buyers can inspect but won’t ask for repairs. The buyers expected they wouldn’t be able to ask for things in the report, so they were fine with that outcome. And in this recent market, they were happy just to get an accepted offer. So the buyer’s expectations were the deciding factor, not the report findings.
The home inspection industry could take steps to prepare inspectors for their role better. Providing more experience and resources to inspectors would help ensure that they are better equipped to relate their findings clearly, concisely, and with context. A home inspection’s aim is to help buyers understand the significance of the issues and how they may affect the property in the long term.
In addition to improving inspector resources, the real estate industry can also do more to educate buyers and agents on what to expect during a home inspection. This can help buyers come to the inspection with realistic expectations, leading to a smoother, more positive experience. One of the biggest challenges first-time home buyers face is their lack of experience in buying a home. They often start at the lower end of the market and may be unaware of the issues commonly found in older or lower-priced homes. A better-informed buyer will likely be more satisfied with the home-buying experience. An example is; seasoned homeowners are rarely deterred at all by an inspection report because they know all homes have issues.
I am not aware of what specific requirements real estate agents must meet in Kentucky to get licensed. However, I believe that increasing the education and training available to agents would benefit everyone involved in the home-buying process. An agent who has a greater understanding of the ins and outs of a home and its systems can provide valuable insights to their clients, helping them make better-informed decisions.
In conclusion, home inspections play a crucial role in the home-buying process. Helping to identify issues and allowing buyers to make more informed decisions. Educating agents and buyers on the home inspection process can help ensure that home inspections are seen as a positive, helpful step in the home-buying journey. This will lead to happier clients, better referrals, and more prosperous home buyers.
Chimney crown cracking is one of the more common observations made when inspecting a home with a chimney. These cracks can cause moisture intrusion and also cause the chimney to deteriorate. Often there is a leak observed at the interior, and often there are damaged brick.
A chimney crown should ideally be made of concrete or metal, but, more often than not, they will be built out of mortar. The problem is that mortar was not meant to be installed in this manner. Because of this, failure is common. When the mortar fails, moisture intrusion is often the result. Since chimneys are places to access, this condition often goes unnoticed and, therefore, will continue uncorrected for a long time. In the picture, you can see where damage had occurred; some repair attempts to seal were made, but the failure continued.
Tending to these failures early is important and may save you lots of money in the long run. This is a good article talking about repairs. Having your chimney inspected before purchasing your home is a good idea and a must if you plan to use the chimney. Some general observations will be made during a home inspection. If you are selling your home, here is some helpful information.