According to a survey of home inspectors, heating problems were the fourth most frequently cited issues–after water problems, electrical problems, and leaky roofs. Most often mentioned were broken or malfunctioning operating controls, blocked chimneys, and unsafe venting systems. Inspectors often discover minor problems such as malfunctioning thermostats and dirty furnace filters, but it is rare [...]

According to a recent survey of home inspectors, the second most frequently cited problem was improper or inadequate electrical wiring. Typical comments concerned insufficient electrical service for the house and inadequate circuit-overload protection. Red flags for an inspector include heavy use of extension cords and multiplier plugs, ungrounded outlets and do-it-yourself repairs. Roof leakage, caused [...]

Whoever coined the phrase “What you don’t know can’t hurt you,” probably never bought a house. Buyers are more educated than ever, and want to know exactly what they are buying. A professional inspection is recommended even with a seller’s disclosure–sellers can disclose only what they know about. In a survey of Home Inspectors, the [...]

When should you use a home inspector? When you are thinking of selling your home, a professional inspection–before you put it on the market–can save time, money and frustration. Our homes are places of refuge, and we have an emotional attachment to them. We don’t look at them with the critical eyes of an inspector–or [...]