Are you about to buy a house on Long Island but feeling overwhelmed by the home inspection process? Not sure what all those complicated terms mean or how to make sense of it all? It may be overwhelming, but a home inspection should not be skipped.
Don’t worry – New Home Inspectors are here for you. Coming from 35 years of experience on Long Island, we know exactly how important it is for our clients to understand their home inspections.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the basics so that reading a home inspection report becomes something easy and stress-free!
1. Start with the summary
A report by New Home Inspectors starts with a general summary. This summary explains what was inspected, any major findings, and our opinion of the condition of the home. It’s a great place to get an overview of the inspection report before diving into more details.
Basically, the summary highlights areas of concerned based on our years of experience.
2. Utilize the Index
On the side of the report, you’ll find an index. This index is a great way to navigate your report quickly and easily. For instance, you can quickly jump to the roofing section to find specific details on the state of the roof. Each section contains information about a different part of the home and includes details like any problems that were found, along with pictures or other visual evidence of those issues.
3. Read the Entire Report
Once you’ve gone through the summary of the report and taken a look at the index, it’s time to start reading. Make sure to read all the way through the document, taking note of any details mentioned in your report. Furthermore, every notation is meant to be read by our clients. The notes contain our findings as well as recommendations of how to use the report in the future.
4. Prioritize the Issues
All homes will have issues. Some are big issues that can cause the home to fail the inspection, while some are minor. You’ll need to prioritize these issues and decide which ones you’re willing to accept, repair on your own, or ask the seller to fix.
At this point, you may want to consult with your home inspector and your real estate agent to come up with an action plan.
5. Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask us questions about the report or for further clarification. We want you to understand what you’re reading and, more importantly, make an informed decision on your home purchase. If there’s something that doesn’t make sense or you’d like to follow up on a particular issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Conclusion
Reading a home inspection report doesn’t have to be intimidating! With New Home Inspectors on your side, you can feel confident understanding the condition of your potential new home. Give us a call today and let’s get started!
As a seller on Long Island, you may be wondering why you need a home inspection before putting your house on the market. After all, isn’t it the buyer’s responsibility to make sure the home is in good condition? While it’s true that buyers typically request inspections, getting a pre-listing inspection can be beneficial for sellers too. In this post, we’ll explain why home inspections are important for sellers and why you should consider hiring a professional home inspection company like New Home Inspectors on Long Island.
Why Should Sellers Get a Home Inspection?
Identify Issues Before Listing
Getting a pre-listing inspection allows sellers to identify any potential issues with their home before they list it. This gives them time to make any necessary repairs and improvements to ensure their home is in top condition for potential buyers. This can also help sellers avoid any surprises during the negotiation process or after a buyer’s inspection.
Increase Transparency
By getting a pre-listing inspection, sellers can increase transparency with potential buyers. By disclosing any issues with the home upfront, buyers are more likely to trust the seller and feel more comfortable making an offer. This can also help prevent any disputes or legal issues down the line.
Save Time and Money
Fixing issues before listing the home can save sellers both time and money. It can prevent potential buyers from negotiating a lower price or requesting repairs, which can delay the closing process. Additionally, making repairs before listing can increase the value of the home and potentially result in a higher sale price.
Competitive Advantage
A pre-listing inspection can also give sellers a competitive advantage in a crowded market. By having a detailed inspection report available for potential buyers, sellers can show that their home is in great condition and ready for move-in. This can help attract more buyers and potentially lead to a faster sale.
Why Hire a Professional Home Inspection Company Like New Home Inspectors?
When it comes to getting a pre-listing inspection, it’s important to hire a professional home inspection company like New Home Inspectors on Long Island. Here’s why:
Experience and Expertise
Professional home inspectors have the experience and expertise to identify potential issues with a home that sellers may not be aware of. They can provide a comprehensive inspection report that details any issues with the home and recommends necessary repairs.
Objective Assessment
Professional home inspectors provide an objective assessment of the home, which can help sellers avoid any potential bias or emotional attachment to the property. This can help sellers make more informed decisions about repairs and improvements before listing.
Detailed Inspection Report
A professional home inspection company like New Home Inspectors can provide a detailed inspection report that can be shared with potential buyers. This can help increase transparency and build trust with buyers.
Compliance with Standards
Professional home inspection companies are required to comply with industry standards and regulations. This ensures that the inspection is thorough and accurate, providing sellers with the information they need to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Getting a pre-listing home inspection can be a valuable investment for sellers. By identifying issues before listing, increasing transparency, saving time and money, and gaining a competitive advantage, sellers can increase their chances of a successful sale. If you’re a seller on Long Island, consider hiring a professional home inspection company like New Home Inspectors to provide a comprehensive inspection report and ensure your home is in top condition for potential buyers.
April is National Home Inspection Month, which means it’s the perfect time to ensure that your home is safe and secure. If you’re on Long Island, then it’s essential to have a home inspection done by professionals like New Home Inspectors, who specialize in evaluating properties for potential issues.
So, why is April the right time for National Home Inspection Month?
What is National Home Inspection Month?
National Home Inspection Month is a yearly event that takes place in April. This month is dedicated to educating homeowners about the importance of home inspections and how they can benefit from them. It’s a time for homeowners to take stock of their properties, identify any potential issues, and make sure their homes are in good condition.
Why is a Home Inspection Necessary?
A home inspection is necessary because it provides a comprehensive evaluation of a property’s condition. It allows homeowners to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. This can save homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. A home inspection can also provide peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and secure for you and your family.
Who Needs a Home Inspection on Long Island?
Did you know that there’s more than just one reason to have a home inspection? Most people think of home inspections as something you do once your offer is accepted, which is before the appraisal and contract signings.
Aside from a home buyer, a home seller may want their home inspected prior to listing. A pre-sale inspection lets a seller know their home is ready to hit the market. Or, it will tell you what should be fixed in order to prepare for the buyer’s home inspection.
Another person that may request a home inspection is a real estate professional. When you have an independent home inspection, you will give your client peace-of-mind as well as have confidence in the property you are showing. New Home Inspectors partners with many qualified real estate agents on Long Island who use our reports to their advantage!
Why is April National Home Inspection Month?
The answer is simple: Spring is the beginning of the best time to sell on Long Island!
By the end of April, most people have filed taxes and received their tax returns. Additionally, with the holidays behind us, there is no rush or pressure during the Springtime. Even though April is the start of the best sale season, May is when it starts booming. According to a study by Zillow, early May seems to be the best time to list your home.
In terms of home inspections, however, the springtime brings some added benefits to your home search.
Spring Showers Brings Spring Floods
With the rainy season in full swing on Long Island, along comes issues with flooding and other types of water damage. A home inspection in winter comes with issues due to the ice and snow hiding issues. Water will shine a light on the issues!
When you hire New Home Inspectors, we will look for the following issues:
Structural problems: Loose or missing shingles, warped or broken window panes, cracks in the foundation, etc.
Soil grading: With the snow cleared, we can accurately see how the soil is graded to slope away from the home
Signs of water leakage: Stains on ceiling, paint bubbles, visible mold, etc
New Home Inspectors is a team of experienced professionals who specialize in evaluating properties for potential issues. They can help homeowners identify any potential issues with their homes, such as plumbing, electrical, or structural issues. They offer comprehensive services that determine the status of a property, regardless of where it is located on Long Island.
Celebrate National Home Inspection Month with New Home Inspectors!
To celebrate National Home Inspection Month with New Home Inspectors, you can schedule a home inspection today. By doing so, you’ll be taking the first step in ensuring that your home is safe and secure. Additionally, you can follow New Home Inspectors on social media to learn more about the importance of home inspections and how to keep your home in good condition.
Conclusion
April is National Home Inspection Month, and there’s no better time to ensure that your home is safe and secure. By scheduling a home inspection with New Home Inspectors, you’ll be taking the first step in identifying any potential issues with your property. As any real estate agent will tell you: a home inspection can save you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road and provide peace of mind, knowing that your home is in good condition. So, celebrate National Home Inspection Month with New Home Inspectors and ensure that your home is safe and secure for you and your family.
As a real estate agent, you play a critical role in the home buying process. One of the most important steps in that process is the home inspection. A thorough inspection can reveal issues that may not be immediately apparent. Ultimately, they help your clients make informed decisions about the home they’re interested in.
However, navigating the home inspection can be a challenge. That’s why we at New Home Inspectors of Long Island have put together some tips to help real estate agents make the most of the home inspection process.
Tip 1: Be present for the home inspection
The home inspection process can be intimidating for many buyers. It’s important to educate your clients on what to expect during the inspection, and what the inspector will be looking for. This can help to alleviate any anxieties or concerns they may have. You can provide guidance on what items can be negotiated prior to closing. We recommend taking note of any issues that may come up during the inspection, and to follow up with your clients after the inspection is complete.
Tip 2: Choose a reputable home inspector
Choosing a reputable home inspector is crucial. You want to work with an inspector who is experienced, knowledgeable, and who will provide your clients with a thorough and accurate inspection. At New Home Inspectors, we have a team of experienced professionals who specialize in accurate home inspections. We’re dedicated to providing our clients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their prospective homes.
Tip 3: Review the inspection report with your clients
After the inspection is complete, it’s important to review the inspection report with your clients. This will allow you to address any questions or concerns they may have. You should be transparent and honest with your clients about the findings of the inspection. Then, provide guidance on what steps they may need to take next.
Tip 4: Follow up with your clients after the inspection
It is crucial to follow up with your clients after the inspection. This allows you to address any lingering concerns or questions they may have. Furthermore, you can show them how to utilize their home inspection. It also helps to ensure that your clients feel supported throughout the home buying process.
What are the Benefits of a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying process that can offer a wide range of benefits. A thorough inspection can reveal potential issues with a property that may not be immediately apparent, allowing buyers to make informed decisions about their prospective homes. By identifying any potential problems, a home inspection can also help buyers avoid unexpected costs and repairs down the road.
Additionally, a home inspection can provide buyers with peace of mind, knowing that they have a clear understanding of the condition of the property they’re interested in. Overall, a home inspection is a valuable investment for any buyer, and can help to ensure that the home buying process goes smoothly and successfully.
Conclusion
The home inspection is a critical step in the home buying process. Any agent that wants to be a true asset to their clients needs to be there for the inspection. As any real estate agent on Long Island knows, your job doesn’t end once the offer is accepted.
At New Home Inspectors, we’re dedicated to providing our clients with accurate and thorough inspections. If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced home inspector on Long Island, contact us today.
As a Long Island homebuyer, you may think that the house you want to buy is in perfect condition. However, there are several hidden issues that may be lurking beneath the surface. A home inspection can help uncover these problems before they become major issues. The home inspection is a vital part of the home buying process that should not be skipped.
Most problems are hidden due to weather or are simply hard to find. Aside from being hard to find, some home inspectors are not as experienced as New Home Inspectors. As a result, the do not know what to look for or how to look for it.
New Home Inspectors of Long Island has the expertise and the right tools to search every detail of your new home. Here are the top 5 hidden issues that home inspectors often find. But first, what do we mean by “hidden” issues?
What Do We Consider “Hidden” Issues?
Home inspection issues are considered “hidden” when they are not easily noticeable to homeowners or potential buyers. They can worsen over time, leading to significant damage and costly repairs. New Home Inspector’s expertise and tools can identify these issues, providing homeowners with valuable insights into their property’s condition.
Moreover, NHI has been working on Long Island for many years. Whether you are on the north shore, out east, or off the L.I.E, we know how your home’s location can impact your home inspection. With this knowledge, we are better equipped to uncover these hidden issues.
1. Water Damage
Water damage can occur from various sources, such as leaky pipes, malfunctioning appliances, or flooding. These issues may not be apparent to the untrained eye, as water can seep into walls, floors, and ceilings, causing mold growth, musty odors, and stains. Moreover, a seller may cover the cosmetic indications of water damage, which makes it harder to find. A home inspector will use specialized tools and techniques to identify any signs of water damage.
2. Electrical Issues
Many homes have outdated or overloaded electrical systems, which can pose serious safety risks. Faulty wiring, outdated fixtures, or improperly installed equipment can lead to electrocution or house fires. Home inspectors will assess the electrical system and identify any issues that require attention.
3. Plumbing Problems
Plumbing issues can also go unnoticed until they cause significant damage. Hidden leaks, corroded pipes, or improperly installed fixtures can result in water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. Home inspectors will thoroughly examine the plumbing system and look for any potential problems.
4. Structural Damage
Structural damage can be difficult to detect, and it can occur for various reasons, including natural disasters, improper construction, or aging. Cracks in the foundation, sagging floors, or uneven walls may indicate underlying structural damage that requires prompt attention. Home inspectors will look for these issues and recommend further investigation if necessary. An untrained person may see cracks in walls or notice the uneven floor, but it takes a qualified home inspector to determine the cause.
5. Pest Infestations
Pests, such as rodents, termites, or ants, can cause extensive damage to a home, including structural damage and health hazards. Home inspectors will search for signs of pest infestations, such as droppings, nests, or chewed-up materials, and recommend appropriate solutions.
6. HVAC Inefficiency
Another hidden issue that home inspectors often find is HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) inefficiency. A poorly functioning HVAC system can lead to discomfort, higher energy bills, and unnecessary strain on the environment. While it may not be immediately apparent to homeowners, an experienced home inspector can assess the HVAC system’s performance and identify any inefficiencies.
Inefficient HVAC systems may result from a variety of factors, such as old or clogged air filters, ductwork leaks, improper system sizing, or malfunctioning components. These problems can lead to uneven heating or cooling, reduced indoor air quality, and increased energy consumption. During a home inspection, the inspector will check the air filters, assess cleanliness and integrity of the ductwork, and test the functionality of the equipment.
Conclusion
If any of these hidden issues are found during a home inspection, it is important to address them as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues can lead to major problems and costly repairs down the road. Furthermore, some of these issues can actually cause a home inspection to fail. This means that you as the home buyer are better off moving on and finding a different home.
At New Home Inspectors, our experienced and licensed home inspectors use the latest technology to perform comprehensive inspections, uncover hidden issues, and help you make informed decisions about your property. Contact us today to schedule a home inspection and protect your investment.
If you’re in the market for a new home on Long Island, it’s important to be aware of the unique differences that come with each location. Depending on the location of your dream home, the home inspector can anticipate different potential issues and vulnerabilities of a home.
For example, if you’re looking at homes on the water, you will see more signs of wear and tear due to salt exposure. In this post, we’ll take a look at 5 ways a home’s location impacts the home inspection process on Long Island!
5 L.I. Locations & What Inspectors Look For
For most homebuyers on Long Island, it’s crucial to consider the location of the property. Obviously, homebuyers want to consider distance to family and friends, quality of schools, closeness to stores, and general landscape of the area. But did you know that different areas can present unique challenges for the home inspection process? By understanding the potential issues and vulnerabilities associated with specific locations, you can be better prepared when it’s time for the home inspection.
Here are 5 ways a home’s location can impact the home inspection process on Long Island:
1. Coastal Areas
Long Island’s coastal areas are a popular choice for homebuyers. Aside from The Hamptons, there’s Cold Spring Harbor, Northport, Port Jeff, and more. Many highly sought-after communities on Long Island are on the waterfront. After all, the beaches are some of the Island’s best features!
However, these areas can present unique challenges for a home. Exposure to salt can cause significant wear and tear on the exterior of the property. A home inspector will pay close attention to any signs of corrosion or rusting. In particular, we look for corrosion on metal surfaces like railings, window frames, and exterior light fixtures.
2. Urban Areas
If you’re looking at homes in Long Island’s urban areas, you may encounter issues related to aging infrastructure. Long Island towns such as Levittown and Garden City have older buildings and homes. Older buildings may have outdated electrical or plumbing systems, which can be expensive to repair or replace. You may even find underground oil tanks on these older properties.
Additionally, urban areas may have higher levels of pollution, which can impact indoor air quality. A home inspector may look for issues with ventilation or other air quality issues.
3. Rural Areas
Homes in Long Island’s rural areas may present challenges related to utilities. This can be true for homes on both the North and South Forks of Eastern Long Island. Some rural homes rely on private wells for water, which can be vulnerable to contamination or other issues. Additionally, septic systems may require maintenance or repairs. A home inspector may check the condition of these systems to ensure they are functioning properly
4. High-Wind Areas
Long Island is prone to strong coastal winds, which can cause damage to homes. A home inspector may pay close attention to the condition of the roof, siding, and windows, looking for signs of damage or vulnerability. Additionally, homes in high-wind areas may need extra reinforcement to ensure they can withstand extreme weather events.
5. Flood Zones
Many areas of Long Island are prone to flooding, particularly during major weather events. A home inspector will closely examine the basement and other below-ground areas for signs of water damage. Additionally, they may look for evidence that the property has been flood-proofed, such as the installation of a sump pump or other measures to prevent water intrusion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the location of a home on Long Island can have a significant impact on the home inspection process. By understanding the potential issues and vulnerabilities associated with specific locations, you can be better prepared for the home inspection process and make a more informed decision about your next home.
If you’re a homeowner in Long Island, you’re likely aware of the various issues that can arise with your property. One of the most common problems that homeowners face is the growth of moss on their roofs. Moss may seem harmless, but it can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked. That’s why it often shows up on your home inspection report. However, having a home inspection during the winter limits our ability to discover moss on the roof of the home you want to buy.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how and why moss grows, how to prevent it, and why it’s a problem for homeowners in Long Island. We’ll also discuss what a home inspector checks on the roof and some common issues that we find.
What is Moss and Why Does it Grow on Roofs?
Moss is a type of nonvascular plant that thrives in moist and shady environments. It’s often found in forests, but it can also grow on roofs, especially those made of materials like asphalt shingles, wood, or slate. Moss can grow on any roof, but it’s more common in areas with high levels of rainfall or humidity. Therefore, Long Island is a prime breeding ground for moss growth on roofs.
Image Description: Picture of moss/lichen growth on the roof and black algae streaks. Red arrows point to the areas with moss growth.
Why is Moss a Problem?
Moss can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked. When moss grows on a roof, it can trap moisture, which can lead to water damage and rot. This can weaken the structure of your roof and compromise its ability to protect your home from the elements. Moss can also attract other pests, like insects and rodents, which can further damage your home.
Therefore, your home inspector will pay close attention to the state of the roof and any moss growth. The results of your home inspection report can help you prevent future issues, such as mold and other damage to your home.
How to Prevent Moss Growth on Your Roof
Preventing moss growth on your roof is important to ensure the longevity of your home. Here are a few tips to prevent moss from growing on your roof:
Trim Overhanging Branches – Trim trees and branches around your home to prevent moss growth on your roof. Overhanging branches can provide shade and moisture, which are perfect conditions for moss to grow.
Keep Your Roof Clean – Regularly clean your roof to remove any debris that could trap moisture and create a breeding ground for moss. Hire a professional roof cleaning company to safely clean your roof.
Install Zinc or Copper Strips – Install zinc or copper strips on your roof to prevent moss growth. These metals can help prevent the growth of moss and other types of algae.
Improve Your Home’s Ventilation – Ensure that your home has proper ventilation. Good ventilation can help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to moss growth on your roof.
What Does a Home Inspector Check on the Roof?
During a home inspection, a home inspector will check the roof for any issues that could potentially compromise the safety and longevity of your future home. Here are some of the common issues that a home inspector will look for:
Missing or Damaged Shingles – Missing or damaged shingles can lead to water damage and can compromise the structural integrity of your roof.
Leaks – Leaks can cause significant damage to your home and can be expensive to repair. A home inspector will look for any signs of leaks on your roof.
Debris – Debris on your roof can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for moss and other types of pests.
Cracks or Holes – Cracks or holes in your roof can also lead to water damage and can compromise the structural integrity of your home.
Ventilation – A home inspector will also check your home’s ventilation to ensure that it’s adequate and working properly.
Why Choose New Home Inspectors?
New Home Inspectors is a reputable home inspection company that provides comprehensive home inspections in Long Island. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable inspectors will thoroughly inspect your home to ensure that it’s safe and structurally sound. We use state-of-the-art technology and tools to inspect your roof and identify any potential issues, including moss growth. We understand the importance of a safe and healthy home, which is why we take our job seriously and provide a detailed report of our findings. Contact us today to schedule your home inspection and get peace of mind knowing that your home is in good hands with New Home Inspectors.
When buying a home on Long Island, it is important to pay attention to the home inspection report. One key area of the report is the section on insulation and ventilation.
After scheduling your home inspection, you may not consider these areas to be super important. Major systems such as electrical and plumbing will likely be at the forefront of your mind. However, insulation and ventilation are vital to the home’s structure and your family’s well-being.
Why Pay Attention to Insulation & Ventilation?
Here on Long Island, we experience the extremes of heat in the summer and cold in the winter. Unlike other places in the country, our seasons in New York take us to the extremes of cold, hot, humidity, and dryness. These elements affect your home, your comfort, and your bank account. Insulation and ventilation are on the front lines of defense.
Insulation keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, so it’s crucial that it is installed correctly and is in good condition. Ventilation helps keep your home healthy by removing stale air and pollutants from inside. If there are any problems with your insulation or ventilation, it could impact the safety and health of you and your family.
Here’s a list of a few reasons to pay attention to the insulation and ventilation sections of your home inspection report.
1. Cost savings:
Insulation and ventilation improve the efficiency of your home’s HVAC system, which helps reduce your energy bills each month. Insulation and ventilation both play a role in keeping your home’s temperature at a comfortable level without using extra energy. Regularly maintaining these systems will help keep energy costs low over time.
2. Comfort:
Poor insulation or ventilation can make it difficult to keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year round. However, your home inspection report can predict a level of year-round comfort when the insulation and ventilation has been properly maintained.
3. Safety and health:
Insufficiently ventilated homes can be prone to moisture buildup, which increases the risk of mold growth and/or structural damage caused by water buildup. However, when issues with ventilation show up on your inspection report, you can use that information to make fixes that will prevent future mold growth.
4.Improved air quality:
Poor ventilation in a home can cause unhealthy levels of humidity and pollutants, which can lead to health issues such as allergies and asthma. Regularly maintaining insulation and ventilation helps improve the air quality inside your home, providing healthier living conditions for your family and pets.
5. Long-term investment protection:
Paying attention to insulation and ventilation during a home inspection could help you avoid costly repairs down the road. Failure to maintain insulation and ventilation systems can lead to unexpected problems such as water damage, mold growth, and pest infestations. Investing in regular maintenance avoids these unwelcome surprises down the line.
6. Environmental benefit:
Making sure that your home is well-insulated and properly ventilated helps reduce your carbon footprint. By decreasing green house gas emissions from inefficient energy use, you are helping to reduce your impact on the environment.
7. Increased property value:
A well-maintained house will have higher market value than one with poorly maintained insulation or ventilation systems. Investing in proper maintenance now could help you get more money back when it comes time to sell your home in the future. A pre-sale home inspection helps to uncover these issues before you need to renegotiate a home offer.
8. Peace of mind:
Knowing that your home is safe from mold, mildew, pests, and dust, and that the air quality within it is healthy can give you peace of mind. Taking preventive measures now could save you from costly repairs later on.
What Does a Insulation & Ventilation Inspection Include?
For both insulation and ventilation, our home inspection report lists the styles and materials present in the home.
Insulation:
New Home Inspectors observes and reports on the type, depth, and condition of the insulation. The spaces include the attic, roof, exterior walls, basement walls, crawl spaces, and more.
Your home inspection report will note where insulation is not present, damaged, or cannot be seen. Additionally, it will detail any problems. Common problems include signs of animal infestation, damaged insulation, or the vapor barrier is facing the wrong way.
The insulation was installed backwards with the vapor barrier facing away from the heated sections of the house.
Ventilation:
The inspector will check the ventilation of the attic and foundation areas. Additionally, we check the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry venting systems.
Schedule Your New Home Inspection Today!
Following your offer being accepted and prior to the home’s appraisal is the right time to have the home inspected. A home inspection is an integral part of the home buying process and should not be skipped. Insulation and ventilation in a home can make or break your safety, comfort, and bank. When you receive the home’s report, you can decide what needs to be fixed immediately, what can wait, and even what the seller will need to fix for the deal to continue. New Home Inspectors is available for home inspections across Long Island, with most reports available within 24 hours!
A home inspection is a vital part of the home buying process. When you get a home inspection, one of the things that is checked is the roof. The roof is one of the most important parts of a home, so you want to make sure that it is in good condition. By having a home inspector check your roof, you can be sure that there are no major issues that need to be addressed before purchasing the property.
In this blog post, we will discuss what a home inspector looks for when they check the roof, as well as some common issues that are found during inspections. If you are buying a home on Long Island, it’s important to know what to expect from the roof inspection!
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2 Roof Inspection Methods
Visual Inspection: Like most home inspectors, we climb up onto the roof to check for damage. We inspect the shingles, check for missing or broken ones, and look for signs of wear. We also check around chimneys, skylights, and any other roof penetrations to make sure they’re properly sealed. Additionally, we check for chimney and vent heights in relation to the roof.
Drone Inspection: If we cannot access the roof, we can use our drones to record the condition of the roof and its components. Drone imaging will show any potential issues, such as broken or missing shingles, worn flashing, aged caulking, rust on metal panels, leakage around pipe penetrations, sagging eaves and more.
Documentation of any existing damage or deterioration
Photos taken from both the ground and the roof when possible
Completion of a detailed report outlining findings.
Common Roofing Problems to Look Out for on a Home Inspection
Roofing problems do not age well. What starts as a loose or missing shingle can grow into a weakened area of the roof. That weakened area can cause water and debris to collect, which eventually become a leak. We recommend our clients pay close attention to our findings on a roof.
Here are some common problems found on the home inspection:
Missing or loose shingles
Damaged flashing
Blistering, curling or broken shingles
Improperly installed vents and chimneys
Gutters that are pulling away from the structure
Debris buildup in gutters and downspouts
Ice dams near eaves or valleys of a roof.
We will also check for proper attic ventilation and insulation. Poor attic ventilation can cause structural damage and mold growth over time if not corrected. Poor insulation causes heating issues in winter as well as excessive utility costs.
Undoubtedly, not all issues require an immediate fix prior to closing. Our main goal is to provide all information for buyers and sellers to review and chose which get resolved before the sale. In extreme cases, however, roofing troubles can lead to home inspection failure.
What to do if a Roof Fails a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a vital part of the home buying and selling process. For buyers, it gives peace of mind that their new home is safe. For sellers, a pre-listing inspection helps prepare them to fix up their home and negotiate their home’s worth. In some cases, home inspections can fail due to extreme roofing issues. Both buyer and seller have options in this case.
What the Buyer Can Do:
If a roof fails the home inspection, the buyer may choose to renegotiate the contract. They can ask for repairs that fix any existing damage or deterioration. The buyer can also request that the seller pay for all or part of the cost of a new roof. If these requests are not accepted by the seller, it’s up to the buyer to decide whether or not they’re willing to take on this risk and purchase a home with a failing roof.
However, it’s worth noting that it will be difficult to secure homeowners insurance with a dilapidated roof. For instance, you may be required to clean any moss or algae from your roof before your insurance is issued. If ignored, moss will damage your shingles and the integrity of the roof.
Image Description: The inspector noticed moss/lichen growth on the roof and black algae streaks. Lichen can cause mineral loss on the roof shingles. The growth can be cleaned off by a qualified professional.
What the Seller Can Do:
The seller in this case has two options; repair or replace their roof prior to closing. Our home inspectors will call out specific areas of repair or replacement. Repairing their roof will involve bringing in an expert to look over any existing damage and make necessary repairs. Depending on the age and condition of the roof, it may be more efficient in some cases to replace it entirely rather than repair any damage.
In either case, it’s important to make sure that all necessary permits are obtained. In order to protect both parties, any work needs to be inspected prior to sale.
Conclusion
The roof is an important part of the home inspection. It is one of the home’s major elements that require a mandatory fix. Furthermore, many homebuyers will walk away from homes with substantial roofing issues.
In conclusion, it’s important to handle any roof issues prior to closing if you are the homeowner. Whether that means repairing or replacing the existing roof, all necessary permits should be obtained and inspections completed in order to ensure everyone is protected. Taking these steps beforehand can help avoid potential problems with the sale of a home.
New Home Inspectors is ready to dive into an important piece of underground knowledge. This time, we’re talking about underground oil tanks.
Depending on the age of your property, you may very well have an old and perhaps even leaking oil tank beneath your feet. Knowing that this could be a potential problem is key to ensuring proper and safe maintenance of your home.
In this blog post, we’ll talk more about oil tanks and why it’s so important for homeowners to understand the risk posed by them.
How Home Inspectors Find an Old Oil Tank
For many Long Island homeowners, they may have no idea there is an underground oil tank on their property. Moreover, if they do know it is there, they will often assume it is empty. However, this is most likely not the case. That’s why it is so important for New Home Inspectors to find tanks on every property we inspect.
In order to find the tank, we will look for common signs that one is present. For instance, there may be a “fill pipe” that is visible above ground. This is a pipe that was used to fill the tank with oil. Additionally, we will look for oil burner switches.
Inspector’s Notes: The inspector noticed signs of a buried oil tank and recommends obtaining a abandonment certificate
What to Do if an Oil Tank is Found on the Property
First, you will want to determine if it is active or decommissioned. If the tank is active, it will need to be tested for leaks or other issues. If a leak is discovered, then an oil company must be called in to address any potential contamination. The homeowner will be responsible for cleanup costs. Hence, another reason why a home buyer should never skip the home inspection.
If decommissioned, then the homeowner should supply evidence of such. As the home buyer, it is vital to have a certificate of abandonment.
5 Tasks to Decommission an Oil Tank
All abandoned oil tanks are required to be decommissioned by a licensed contractor. There are 5 major tasks performed in order to do so.
Disconnect tank piping from the new heating system
Fill pipe removed or cut below grade and sealed with concrete
Clean the oil tank of any residue
Fill the tank with sand or foam
Test the tank for leaks and get a Tank Abandonment Certificate
Unfortunately, many sellers will not have the proper certificate. This means that a leak test was not performed. Many homeowners feel that it is “out of sight, out of mind.” However, an improperly decommissioned oil tank poses a threat to the environment, to your wallet, and even the ability to sell the property.
Buying a Home? What to Know About Abandoned Oil Tanks.
Oil tanks are abandoned for a variety of reasons. The most common on Long Island is due to a switch to a more efficient heating system. Furthermore, the tanks may be forgotten about over time due to lack of maintenance or neglect. Regardless of the reason, it is important to check for and address any abandoned oil tanks before buying a home.
It is essential that home buyers schedule their home inspection as soon as their offer is accepted. This is especially important purchasing homes built prior to 1975. Among other things, oil tank handling was very different to today. Discovery and proper handling of any existing underground oil tanks will help protect against any potential pollution or liability risks in the future.
Furthermore, the presence of an old oil tank buried on your property can affect your ability to get homeowners insurance. The associated costs of an oil leak can be astronomical. Therefore, insurance companies may be weary of insuring a home with an abandoned oil tank on the property.
Knowing what to look for and understanding your options can help reduce those risks!
