If you’re a home seller, it’s important to be aware of the venting requirements for your property. A common issue on a home inspection is having a vent, flue, or chimney too close to your roof or other combustible items. This can lead to dangerous and costly problems down the road. That’s why it’s always best to have your home inspected prior to putting it up for sale.
At New Home Inspectors, we recommend having a pre-sale home inspection done by one of our experienced professionals. We’ll help you identify any potential issues with your property so you can address them before they impact your sale.
Height/Clearance Requirements for Chimneys & Vents
When having your pre-sale home inspection done, our home inspectors make sure that all chimneys and vents comply with local building codes and regulations. This includes checking the height & clearance requirements of each flue, vent, or chimney.
On Long Island, for example, NFPA 211 requires a minimum horizontal clearance of three feet from any combustible material such as wood siding or vinyl siding. Heights must also be checked to ensure the flue is at least two feet above the roof line. If your property has gas appliances such as hot water heaters or furnaces, then you will need to double check their venting system too.
Image description: The sketch above shows the proper minimum chimney height and roof clearances for a masonry chimney. Image credit to Inspectapedia.
So, why is height and clearance so important?
A “too-short” chimney causes several problems for homeowners. When you are about to sell your house, a pre-sale home inspection will uncover these problems. Furthermore, waiting for your potential buyer to have their inspection only prolongs the inevitable. This issue is an important one and could result in a renegotiation of the deal.
Fire hazard. Short chimneys are unlikely to vent properly. The heat will gather and rises setting the roof on fire.
Water damage. Poorly placed vents can also cause snow and ice to melt, causing water damage. Both of which are expensive repairs.
Downdrafts and backdrafts. Venting that is too low can cause a downdraft, and sending air out instead of drawing it in. This results in backdrafting, which can cause carbon monoxide buildup.
Puffbacks. A puffback is a malfunction in the furnace. The oil burner may not be getting enough air or too much fuel, causing the flame to ignite improperly and blowout smoke into the home.
Carbon monoxide poisoning. Chimney height directly affects draft and airflow. A short chimney or vent cannot develop the right flow to remove gases efficiently. The possible result is carbon monoxide coming back into the home.
What to do if your inspection shows improper clearance?
If you are selling a home, make sure that your pre-sale home inspection covers all of your systems. This should include heights and clearance needed for chimneys and water heater vents. This will help ensure that there are no issues with venting, which could cause long term damage to both your wallet and your soon to be former home.
Image description: Water heater vent too close to roof. Picture taken on roof by New Home Inspectors with added red arrow to show issue.
So, what happens when your pre-sale inspection uncovers insufficient clearance? We recommend getting a qualified contractor to correct this. In order to get your house ready for sale, the venting must be corrected and brought up to code.
Can you wait it out and see what the home buyer requires?
Of course, ignoring the problem is an option. However, that’s an option you should take at your own risk. It can be a gamble because improperly vented chimneys and water heaters can cause long-term issues of their own, from air quality to structural damage.
Furthermore, it’s highly likely that the buyer’s home inspector uncovers the issue. So it is best practice to make sure these items are up to code prior to putting the house on the market. You don’t want to renegotiate in the middle of the home buying process. Or, even worse, risk a failed the home inspection.
2 Common Draft Fixes for a Too Short Chimney
First, the obvious fix is a chimney extension. This is the simplest and least costly option. However, depending on the structure, the chimney may meet fire clearance but still not create adequate draft. Which brings us to…
Second, a draft inducer fan helps to meet draft requirements. This is a fan that attaches to the top of the chimney and helps pull smoke and gases up and out. This should be installed by a qualified professional.
Final Thoughts from a
Long Island Home Inspector
Having an improperly installed flue, vent, or chimney puts your home and its occupants at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, among other things. It’s important to have a pre-sale inspection before selling your home so you can address any potential issues.
Additionally, home inspectors will be able to explain what needs to be done in order for these items to meet requirements. Having a pre-sale inspection can ensure that your home is up to code, and will help you avoid any unwanted surprises down the line when selling your home.
At New Home Inspectors, we understand how important pre-sale inspections are for home sellers. If you’ve got questions about the height & clearance of your chimneys & vents, give us a call today!
Heating systems are one of the most important features of a home. Not only do they keep you warm in the winter, but they also play an important role in the overall safety and efficiency of your home. That’s why it’s an important piece of the home inspection.
Like it or not, the cold weather is heading our way on Long Island. Let’s say you decided to skip your home inspection when you bought your new home over the summer. Best-case scenario: you turn on your heat and nothing happens. Worst-case scenario, it can be a disaster that threatens the safety of your home and family. Are you prepared to handle any home heating issues that may arise during the winter?
In this blog post, we will discuss what home buyers can expect during a heating system inspection, as well as some of the most common issues. If you’re in the market for a new home, be sure to read this blog post!
Home Heating: What Do We Inspect?
When a home inspector performs an inspection, we will look at all aspects of your home’s heating system. This includes inspecting the furnace, boilers, pipes, chimneys and ductwork. Additionally, John will look for any potential safety issues with the home, such as gas leaks, asbestos and carbon monoxide.
Obviously, there are certain challenges when you have a home inspection during the winter. However, this is not a reason to forgo the inspection. Additionally, winter is the perfect time to check the full functionality of your heating system.
Why an HVAC System Inspection is Important
Home inspections include the HVAC system. This is an essential home system, which is checked for efficiency, age, and maintenance. Here on Long Island, having an efficient home heating system during our cold winters is a crucial part of maintaining the comfort of your home.
A home inspector can inspect all aspects of the home’s heating system to ensure it’s functioning properly. Since it is one of the most important systems in a house, the inspection is very detailed.
Common Heating Problems Found on Home Inspections
When inspecting a home’s heating system, home inspectors will probably uncover issues. While not all issues will fail a home inspection, some will have an impact on its efficient and overall performance. Let’s look at some common problems:
Filters. Dirty or damaged filters cause airflow problems, inefficiency, higher bills, and health issues.
Leaks. A leak is a big problem in HVAC. Often, it is a sign of a larger problem in the home’s ductwork.
Incorrect Thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat may cause issues with temperature control and energy efficiency.
Condensation Issues. Sometimes, there is an issue with condensate drainage or condensing units that causes water to collect around the home’s heater. It can lead to an accumulation of mold and mildew.
Faulty Wiring. This is the main cause of most home fires. Homes with faulty wiring will have problems during times of high usage.
Flue Problems. Damaged flues increase the risk of toxins coming back into the home. Additionally, a flue that is too close to the roof will cause backdrafts.
Inspection Report. The hot water heater flu is too close to the roof.
Inspection Report. The TPS valve is leaking.
Inspection Report. The chimney crown is cracked and the mortar/bricks are loose.
These are only a few things home inspectors look at when assessing the home’s heating system. During the home inspection, the inspector will check for any of these problems, as well as signs of wear or damage due to age or poor maintenance. This can help home buyers prepare for potential repair bills or replacement costs.
Get Peace of Mind with New Home Inspectors
Whether you are buying a home, selling, or just looking for a seasonal efficiency check, we are here to help. John’s inspections include a thorough analysis of the home’s heating system, as well as other home systems, such as plumbing and electrical systems.
Did you know?
You don’t need to wait until you are buying a home to have an inspection of your major systems. Here are a few other reasons people would have their HVAC systems inspected by a home inspector:
Selling your home. Get an idea of what will come up on an inspection before the buyer does theirs.
Showing a home. As a real estate agent, have confidence showing a home.
Seasonal inspections. This ensures your system’s maintenance requirements are being met.
Winter is coming on Long Island and you’re in the market for a new home. Congratulations! You’ve come to the right place.
One of the most important steps in buying a home is getting a home inspection done and you should not skip it. But did you know that there are some things that can’t be inspected during the winter months? In this blog post, we’ll tell you what those things are and why they can’t be inspected. We’ll also give you some tips on how to get the most out of your home inspection during the winter!
Home Inspections Throughout the Seasons: What’s the Difference?
While home sales slow in the winter months, many people are still buying and selling. If you’re a home buyer who is ready to have a home inspection done, there are a few things you need to know. First of all, home inspections are not as thorough in the winter months as they are in the spring and summer. That’s because some things cannot be properly inspected in the cold weather.
However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have a home inspection done in the winter! There are still many benefits to getting an inspection at this time of year. Let’s look at the pros and cons…
Drawbacks of Winter Home Inspection
When buying a home in winter, there can be snow and ice covering places we need to get into. Additionally, some home systems will be offline for the cold weather months. Here are a few examples of winter home inspection challenges:
Roof
AC unit
Pools
Underground sprinkler systems
Grading & drainage
Roof Inspections in Winter
A home inspector can’t fully inspect a snow covered roof. Even if there has been no recent snowfall and the roof is clear, it could still be dangerous to climb up on a slippery surface. Instead, we take detailed notes from ground level. Additionally, we look for other signs of trouble like damaged gutters or loose shingles. Furthermore, since the roof is a vital part in a home’s safety, skipping this part of the inspection can be dangerous.
Air Conditioning Inspections in Winter
Naturally, AC units are not running in the winter months. In fact, turning the unit on when it has been under 60 degrees for several days can cause damage to the compressor. Therefore, we will not be able to check all components and functionality of the AC unit. New Home Inspectors will still be able to determine aspects such as age, size, and type. Additionally, we will look for any obvious damage to the unit and ductwork.
Pool Inspections in Winter
Pools and spas need to be winterized in the fall. We will not be able to check any pool related components in the winter months since their failure could cause damage from over-freezing or flooding when spring arrives.
In-ground Sprinkler Systems Inspection in Winter
Since the sprinkler system is completely underground, we will not be able to check the functionality of the system in the winter. We will determine if there are a sufficient number of valves and zones for proper coverage, but all other aspects must be left for spring.
Home Grading and Drainage Inspection in Winter
Grading and drainage can be difficult to evaluate in the winter because of snow cover. We will still inspect for improper grading, which could cause water intrusion or excessive moisture. However, due to weather conditions, we will not be able to fully assess proper drainage.
Benefits of Home Inspections in Winter
When buying a home in the winter months on Long Island, there are several benefits that home inspection provides. Just like any other inspection, we will check all home systems such as heating, electrical, plumbing and more to ensure that they are working properly. Additionally, we will provide an overall assessment of the home’s condition, which can help home buyers make an informed decision when purchasing a home.
Though home inspections are somewhat limited in the colder months, homebuyers still experience several benefits. Here are some winter-specific indicators that something needs to be fixed before you buy the home:
Cracked pipes
Drafty doors and windows
Condensation on windows
Ice dams and icicles in gutter system
Heating system health
The harsh Long Island winters can cause stress to any home. Often, the damage isn’t apparent until the weather gets warmer. However, inspection items such as insulation levels can be easier to detect in winter months.
Additionally, with all the extra weight of snow and ice, we can see how the home’s frame is holding up.
Final Thoughts
The real estate industry slows during the winter. With the holiday seasons, people are busy with family and vacations. Families with children will not want to switch school districts mid-year. Furthermore, no one wants to move in the cold weather!
On the other hand, there are many benefits to buying in the winter. Fewer houses and sales means more motivated sellers and quicker closing times.
The limitations on the winter home inspection should not deter you. At New Home Inspectors, we have many methods that will bring you the most complete inspection possible.
Winter is coming. And that means cold weather, snow, and ice. For many people on Long Island, it also means dealing with the cold drafty home. If you’re not prepared, your home can be a miserable place to be during the winter months.
That’s why today we’re going to talk about how to prepare your home for winter. While summer comes with its own challenges, winter brings harsh weather and destructive elements. We’ll discuss 4 tips from a home inspector that will help keep you warm and comfortable all winter long!
So let’s get started…
Tip #1: Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
The first step in preparing your home for winter is to inspect the exterior. This includes checking your home’s foundation, walls, windows, doors, and roof.
Look for cracks or gaps in these areas. If you find any, seal them up with caulk or weatherstripping to help prevent cold air from coming into your home. Drafts decrease comfort and increase your bills.
Also, check to make sure that your gutters are clean and free of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, which can damage your home’s exterior and foundation.
Tip #2: Check Your Heating System
Now is the time to have your heating system serviced by a professional. This will help ensure that it’s running efficiently and safely. An annual service can also help extend the life of your system.
If you have a fireplace, now is the time to have it cleaned and inspected. This will help prevent chimney fires, which are a leading cause of home fires during the winter months.
In addition, we recommend checking the height of your chimneys and flues. Ventilation issues have the potential for many problems in the winter months.
Tip #3: Attend to Exposed Pipes
Plumbing is a major home system that gets inspected. It runs through the entire house and can have severe consequences if not maintained.
One of the most common winter home problems is frozen pipes. Frozen water expands, which can burst your pipes. Even if the pipes just crack a bit, you will be left with low water pressure, water damage, and mold growth.
To prevent this from happening, insulate your pipes with foam insulation or pipe sleeves. You can find these at most hardware stores.
Additionally, keep your home’s thermostat at a consistent temperature, even when you’re away. This will help prevent the water in your pipes from freezing.
Tip #4: Protect the Roof
Damaged or missing shingles allow rain and snow into the roofing system. This causes wood rot and mold growth. Eventually, you can end up with massive roof leaks and water damage.
Furthermore, make sure to clean your gutters and downspouts before the first snowfall. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, which can damage your roof and gutters.
Advice from a Home Inspector
Home inspectors like John are trained to look for potential problems in homes of all shapes and sizes. They know the exact pain points of a home to prepare for winter.
New Home Inspectors have seen it all. From old to new homes, he knows the type of wear and tear a home experiences. Simple drafty windows can become even bigger problems with the harsh elements of a Long Island winter.
Additionally, he knows the ins and outs on how major home systems work. This allows him to provide valuable insights on how to prepare them for the winter ahead.
Conclusion
If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a winter-proof home. But if you have any doubts, or need help with anything, don’t hesitate to call us! John will be able to help you identify any potential problems and give you peace of mind knowing that your home is ready for winter.
If you’re in the market to buy a home on Long Island, you know it can be a daunting process. Contending with high home prices and taxes, you probably just want to get it over with. However, the home inspection is an important step that you should not skip.
For home buyers (especially first-timers), you may not know when the home inspection happens. Here, we will outline the general home buying process and when to get a home inspection.
When Does the Home Inspection Take Place on Long Island?
On Long Island, the home inspection happens shortly after the seller accepts the buyer’s offer. There may be some negotiation about the price after you submit your offer. If using a mortgage lender, you need to send them a copy of the purchase agreement. However, once the seller accepts the terms, you should immediately schedule the inspection.
Home buying moves quickly in the beginning. Since you need an inspection early on in the process, you should have a good idea of who you are going to use for the inspection.
Who Pays For and Attends the Home Inspection?
In most cases, the buyer pays the home inspection. Additionally, we recommend that the buyer attend the inspection. In fact, John encourages his clients to come along and ask questions as he goes through the home.
He has found that many homebuyers are surprised by what an inspector looks for, and how in-depth the inspection report is!
What Happens After the Inspection?
The home inspection identifies any potential problems with the home before you finalize the sale. After the inspection is complete, you will receive a report detailing the findings.
The benefit of this is twofold. First, the inspection highlights necessary home repairs once you move in, as well as what to look out for in the future.
Second, you and your agent will make a list of requested fixes prior to closing. The seller does not have to do everything on the list, unless there are major home inspection fails.
If there are no major problems with the home, you can proceed with purchasing the property. However, if the home inspection fails, you may want to renegotiate with the seller or walk away from the deal altogether.
Hazards that wouldn’t be found without a home inspection
There are many steps to take when buying a home. From house hunting to the time you get the keys to your new home, there’s a lot to do.
After the home inspection, here’s what to anticipate happening next:
Home Appraisal. The appraisal is a review of the current value of the home. While similar to the inspection, there are distinct differences.
Ask for Repairs or Credits. Upon reviewing results of the inspection, you can ask for the seller to correct some of the problems. Alternatively, you can request credits to cover some of your closing costs.
Do a Final Walkthrough. Even when you’re 100% certain about the property, you want to do a walkthrough. You can see if the seller has left anything behind or there has been any damage between the home inspection and closing.
Time to Close! Depending on how you are funding your home, this can look slightly different. Regardless, you will sit with lawyers, realtors, and the title company and sign your name several hundred times. Ok, we are exaggerating, but it will surely feel that way!
Final thoughts from NHI
Now that you know the process of buying a home on Long Island, don’t forget the most important step: scheduling a home inspection with New Home Inspectors! John will give you the peace of mind knowing that your new home is in tip-top shape. Give us a call today at (631) 368-1800 to schedule your home inspection. We look forward to hearing from you!
If you are selling a home on Long Island, it’s important to be aware of the repairs that may be required after a home inspection.
The home inspection is an important part of the selling process. However, as the home owner, it is a worrisome hurdle you must get through in order to complete your sale. While some buyers may choose to skip a home inspection, most well informed and well guided buyers will not.
Inevitably, there will be some issues found on a home inspection. No home is perfect, unfortunately. As the home seller, what is your responsibility to resolve prior to the sale?
No matter how well you take care of your home, there may be some minor issues that need to be addressed in order to ensure a smooth sale.
What Types of Inspection Issues Must be Fixed?
Simply put, a home inspection is not a to-do list. The report will show more serious safety issues as well as smaller or cosmetic problems. The buyer can then present a list of requested repairs for the seller before closing.
When using a lender, they will likely have their own list. Basically, they do not want to fund a home that is unsafe or has issues with the major home systems.
All repairs and who pays for them are negotiable. The buyer can make reasonable requests, and the seller can decide if they want to fix it or just come down in price.
Here are some common things that will need to be fixed:
What are Common Requests Made from the Home Inspection
Since our home inspections at New Home Inspectors are incredibly thorough, potential buyers may choose to ask for repairs. These requests may not be very serious, but can affect the livability going forward.
Some common requests we see are:
Replace cracked windowpanes
Caulk the tub
Addressing slow drainage
Fix the broken ice maker in the fridge
Replace missing chimney caps
These home inspection fixes are typically very minor, and can easily be completed by the homeowner. If you’re selling your home, it’s important to remember that the home inspection is not meant to be a list of things that need to be fixed. It’s simply meant to give the potential buyer peace of mind knowing that they’re making a sound investment.
Final Thoughts: Prevent Home Inspection Fails Before They Happen
As a home seller, the home inspection can be one of the most stressful parts of the home selling process. But it doesn’t have to be! By being proactive and taking care of any minor repairs before the home inspector comes, you can avoid any major issues that could result in a failed home inspection. And that will give you one less thing to worry about as you prepare to sell your home.
If you’re thinking of selling your Long Island home, we would be happy to help! Getting a pre-sale inspection allows you to sell your home with confidence. With a pre-inspection, you avoid surprises and understand the condition of your home. Then, when the buyer has their inspection, you have a good understanding of the issues and what leverage you may have.
Home sale negotiations can be tough. Preventing inspection fails before they happen is your best bet as a homeowner to ensure a smooth transaction.
If you’re in the market for a new home on Long Island, it’s important to know what will cause the home inspection to fail. Many homebuyers are caught off guard when they find out that their dream home isn’t as perfect as they thought it was. While every inspection will show defects, there are some that can ruin a sale.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common items that can lead to a failed home inspection. We’ll also provide some advice on what to do if you encounter one of these items.
Top 8 Reasons a Home Inspection Fails
Commonly, we see cosmetic and minor flaws show up on an inspection. The simple items on the inspection are good to know for when you move in and start making repairs. Additionally, you can utilize your inspection to prevent future problems, such as mold.
However, a home inspection can show costly and more severe problems. In fact, this is why they are so important and should never be skipped. Here are some of the most common things that fail a home inspection.
Roofing Issues
The roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and keeps everything inside dry. If there are any problems with the roof, it can cause significant damage to the rest of the home. Generally, roofs will last 15-20 years before needing renewal. New Home Inspectors will call out misplaced or broken shingles, as well as leaky spots. A severely neglected roof can cost $10,000 or more to replace.
Foundation Problems
The foundation is what supports your entire home. If there are any cracks or issues with the foundation, it can lead to big problems down the road. Obviously, foundational issues will put your homes’ stability at risk. However, it can allow moisture and pests into your home as well.
Electrical Issues
Outdated or faulty electrical work is a common home inspection fail. If the home you are looking at was built over 50 years ago, it is likely that the wiring will need to be updated. Homes built in the late 60s or early 70s may have inferior aluminum wiring. This type of repair can cost between $500 and $5,000.
Toxic Materials
If your home inspector finds any asbestos or lead-based paint, the seller may be required by law to have it removed. These are both very hazardous materials that can cause serious health problems. The cost of removing these materials can be significant. Additionally, carbon monoxide and radon can be leaked into the home. These toxic materials are harmful to residents. They must be removed before passing inspection.
Drainage Problems
Poor drainage around a home can lead to all sorts of problems. If the home is not properly graded, water will pool around the foundation and seep into the basement. This can cause major flooding issues as well as mold and mildew problems. Improper drainage can also damage landscaping and sidewalks. It should be noted, having a home inspection in winter can prevent a proper drainage inspection.
Bad Plumbing
Another expensive repair is problems with the plumbing system. Damaged pipes and sewer line clogs are examples of what will fail a home inspection. Fixing or replacing piping can cost thousands.
Failing HVAC Systems
The home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is another item that will fail a home inspection. A home inspector will check to make sure the furnace is in good working order and that there are no ductwork leaks. If the home has central air conditioning, the inspector will also check the condition of the AC unit. Certain HVAC issues will cause an inspection to fail since they are severe safety issues.
Poorly Maintained Condition
Minor issues like a missing chimney cap might not seem like a big deal. However, minor and even cosmetic issues can add up if there are enough of them. Having so many problems show up on the inspection should alert to you as the buyer that the seller has not maintained the home well.
What to Do if the Home Inspection Shows Any of These Problems
If you’re considering buying a home, it’s important to be aware of these potential problems. As your home inspector, we will look for these and other issues during the inspection process.
So, what can you do if you’re faced with one of these problems?
If you’re confronted with a major structural defect, the best course of action is to walk away from the deal. These types of problems are usually expensive to fix and can cause a lot of headaches down the road.
If you’re dealing with an issue like electrical problems or bad plumbing, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to have them repair the problem before closing on the home.
At the end of the day, it is your decision as the buyer whether to buy the home or pass on it. If you are up for the repairs and the renovation, then go for it. Or if you do not want to sink more money into the home after closing, then it may be best to pass on it. Regardless of your choice, you will need a home inspection in order to get all the information to make the right decision.
Conclusion
Are you in need of a home inspection on Long Island? Contact us today! We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions and schedule an appointment for you. Home inspections are important to avoid any unwanted surprises after you’ve already purchased your home. Be sure to have a professional home inspector check for any of the items on this list before signing on the dotted line!
Mold can be a huge issue in Long Island homes. With the moisture in the ground and in the air, mold will quickly grow. While New Home Inspectors do not do a mold inspection, we can help you avoid issues with mold in the future.
Mold can be a huge issue when buying or selling a home. It can cause structural damage, health problems, and even financial losses. If we notice growth on or in a home, we will recommend a mold inspection.
First, let’s consider how mold starts to grow. Mold spores are everywhere – in the air, on surfaces, and in dust. They are invisible to the naked eye and can enter your home through open doors, windows, vents, and HVAC systems.
Mold needs three things to grow:
A food source (organic material like wood, paper, or drywall)
Moisture
Warm temperatures
If any of these three things are missing, mold will not be able to grow.
Using Your Home Inspection to Prevent Mold
When you’re buying a home, the home inspection is your chance to identify any potential problems that could lead to mold growth. This is yet another reason to never skip a home inspection! Even common plumbing issues can result in mold growth down the road.
Here are some things to look for on your home’s inspection:
– Water stains on ceilings or walls
– Dampness in crawl spaces or basements
– Loose tiles in bathrooms or kitchens
– Leaks around windows or doors
– Replace old or dirty filters
If any of these issues are found on the inspection and the seller has not corrected them, then you should repair them right away to prevent mold.
4 Simple Ways to Prevent Mold Growth
Like what was noted above, mold is inevitable on Long Island. This is especially true if you have a basement. The key is to take the proper precautions to prevent its growth.
First, utilize a dehumidifier. This will remove the moisture that mold needs in order to grow. Second, fix any leaks quickly. Once water starts coming in, it will not stop on its own. Additionally, water will settle at your home’s lowest point (ie- the basement). Your dehumidifier will take moisture out of the air but will not help if the upstairs toilet is leaking. Third, keep your AC on Auto in order to help keep the air cool and dry. Mold loves warmth.
Finally, ventilate areas that tend to be humid. This includes your kitchen and bathrooms, especially after a shower.
Final Thoughts from New Home Inspectors
If you do find mold in your home, don’t panic! It can usually be removed with a little elbow grease and the right cleaners. However, if the mold is widespread or you’re unsure of how to remove it, it’s always best to call in a professional.
When followed correctly, these tips will help you avoid any major problems with mold down the road.
Are you selling your home? If so, it’s important to be prepared for the home inspection. This is an important process that will help buyers determine if the home is in good condition and worth their investment.
In this blog post, we will discuss what home sellers can do to prepare for the home inspection. We’ll also provide some tips on how to make the inspection go as smoothly as possible!
What to Check Prior to Inspection
As a home seller, you should make sure that your home is in good condition before the inspection. This means fixing any obvious damage or problems, such as leaks, cracks, holes, and so on. You should also declutter your home and remove any personal items that could get in the way of the inspector’s work.
It’s also a good idea to be present during the home inspection. This way, you can answer any questions that the inspector may have. And if there are any problems with the home, you can discuss them with the buyer directly.
Similar to a home appraisal, the home inspection is an important step in selling your home. By being prepared for it, you can help make the process go smoothly and ensure that your home is sold quickly and for the best possible price.
10 Simple Fixes to Improve the Inspection
You don’t need to go replace your roof or have your home rewired to improve your home’s inspection. There are simple things you can check for and fix. This will make the inspection look less overwhelming to the buyer and will show that you take care in maintaining your home.
Replace lightbulbs with the correct wattage bulbs
Make sure there are switch plates and outlet covers on every light switch and outlet
It is important to maintain your home all year long, not just when you are trying to sell it. By keeping up with simple repairs and maintenance tasks, you can avoid more costly problems in the future. Not to mention, it will make selling your home much easier and faster. If you take care of your home, it will take care of you.
Final Thoughts
So if you are thinking of selling your home, make sure to get a head start on preparing for the home inspection. By following the tips above, you can avoid any stressful surprises. And who knows, maybe you’ll even get a higher sale price because potential buyers will see that you’ve taken good care of your home. Either way, it’s a win-win situation. So what are you waiting for? Start prepping for your home inspection today!
If you need help getting started or have any questions along the way, feel free to contact us at New Home Inspectors.
When you are buying a home, one of the most important things to do is have it inspected. You want to make sure that there are no major problems with the property that could cost you a lot of money down the road. But did you know that there is another type of inspection that you might need as well? An appraisal!
Home Inspection vs Appraisal
When you’re buying a home, it’s important to know the difference between a home inspection and an appraisal. Ordered by a lender, an appraisal determines the value of a property in order to secure a loan. A home inspection, on the other hand, looks for defects or problems with the property that could affect your decision to buy it. If you’re unsure about the difference, read on for more information about each one.
What is a Home Inspection?
Conducted by a professional inspector, a home inspection is an objective examination of the physical structure and systems of a home. The inspector will look for any defects or problems that could affect the value of the property or your ability to live in it. Although not required by law, home inspections are highly recommended. Your home inspection report from New Home Inspectors can be a powerful negotiating tool.
A home inspector must be licensed by New York State in order to perform the inspection. Choose a licensed and insured company, like New Home Inspectors.
Typically, lenders for conventional financing do not require home inspections, but they are recommended. However, FHA or VA loans may require an inspection.
What is an Appraisal?
An appraisal is performed by a licensed appraiser and is used to determine the value of a property for loan purposes. The appraiser will consider certain factors when determining the value of a home. This includes location, square footage, recent sales of similar properties. When applying for a mortgage, lenders will require an appraisal.
When the appraiser looks at the condition of the property, they are looking for obvious defects and safety hazards. Some examples are peeling paint, missing hand rails, leaking roof, or trip hazards.
Basically, an appraiser will take into consideration that the roof is leaking when placing a value on the home. Whereas, a qualified home inspector will get on the roof and identify the cause of the leak.
Recent home inspection by John – Missing shingles on a roof.
Do You Need Both?
Do you need both a home inspection and an appraisal? If you’re buying any home on Long Island, it’s generally advisable to get both. A home inspection will identify any potential problems that could affect your ability to live in the house. Furthermore, these problems could lower the value of the property. An appraisal will give you an idea of how much the home is worth.
Of course, getting both services done can be costly. Since your mortgage requires an appraisal, you might consider skipping the inspection. This is especially true for people buying new construction. However, even in that case, it’s always a good idea to have a professional take a look at the property before you finalize your purchase.
Some Similarities of Inspections and Appraisals
While they have two difference processes and purposes, there are some similarities. This often leads to confusion, especially for a first time home buyers.
Both appraisers and inspectors are licensed, impartial third parties
Unless otherwise negotiated, the home buyer is responsible for paying for both. While you select the home inspector you want to work with, the lender will select the appraiser.
The appraisal and inspection are carried out during escrow. That is, the time in between the accepted offer and closing on the home.
Results of both the appraisal and inspection will allow for negotiations. For instance, if the appraisal comes back low, then you can renegotiate to cover the difference in price. Similarly, if the inspection shows significant problems – for instance, the electrical systems – you can request repairs or credits.
