10 Common/Costly Defects

Most people strive to keep their properties well maintained and trouble free, however we usually find issues with every property we inspect. Many problems are minor – some are more significant. After conducting thousands of property inspections, we have compiled the following list of what we consider the

The 10 Most Common Property Deficiencies

10: Plumbing issues such as steel piping, aging waste pipes and old hot water tanks can be the cause of sudden, expensive repairs. During the course of the inspection a flood test is conducted to simulate a real world scenario of how the plumbing system handles significant water flow.

9: Tree limbs and vegetation growth too close to the roof line or building. Trees, shrubs, vines or any other live growth near or on the building can cause excessive moisture penetration to the building materials, deposit bio debris on the roof surface and serve as a direct conduit to the interior for pests. Especially damaging to flat roofs. Trim tree limbs and vegetation back from the building. Never allow vines to grow on exterior building materials.

8: Chimney deterioration. Many chimneys are neglected which can cause mortar gaps, broken brick work and flu damage. If a gas furnace uses the chimney for exhaust, it should be lined with aluminum. It’s important to maintain the brick work on exterior chimneys. Little by little, repair costs add up. A qualified mason can provide expert repair and maintenance. The installation of rain caps will help prevent moisture and pests infiltrating the flues. Have chimneys cleaned by a reputable chimney sweep.

7. Exterior window frames. It is imperative that exterior window frames be well maintained. Water infiltration to window cavities will cause significant and costly damage. If you have wood window frames, make sure that the frames and sills remain properly sealed with a quality stain or paint. Expect to paint and caulk window frames every three to five years.

6. Indoor environment. From radon gas to water purity, indoor environmental issues are more important to our clients then ever. Radon gas is a by-product of decaying uranium and is found in every building. The EPA reports that indoor air can be far more polluted than outdoor air. We offer low cost testing for radon gas, mold spores, allergy testing, lead based paint, water purity and more. Visit our indoor environmental page for more info.

5. Mold growth. We estimate that 40% of the properties we inspect have some type of active mold growth. Visit our page on mold growth for more info.

4. Foundation & structure. Modern building practices have eliminated the potential for many foundation problems. However, the biggest threats to foundations are age, water, trees and improper additions to original structures. Significant structural defects typically call for specialized professional involvement and can make a property prohibitively expensive.

3. Heating & cooling systems. Most buildings are heated and cooled with forced air systems. These systems have a life span of 20 – 25 years if properly maintained. These systems are fundamental components to a home or building and are costly replacement items. Excessive corrosion within the heat exchanger, improper flue connections, leaking condensation pipes all lead to an unstable heating/cooling system.

2. Roofing system. We define the roof as a system because so many components contribute to a properly functioning roof. A typical roof installation has a life span of 20 years. Applying new material over an existing material reduces the life span of the top layer by 50% – it’s always beneficial to strip the existing layer before reapplication. Ventilation, drainage, insulation, ice shielding and flashing play an important part of the overall roof system. Your report will indicate how all of the roof components contribute to the life span of the current roof.

1. Water infiltration. Without a doubt, water infiltration is the biggest problem in homes and buildings. Material damage, mold growth, even mechanical failure is attributed to water infiltration. Look back over this list, many of the issues have water directly involved. Check downspouts, do they move rain water at least 5′ from the foundation? Low lying grade areas at the perimeter of the building? 95% of water infiltration issues to a foundation/basement are a direct result of improper waste water drainage. Structure & Site specializes in water related problems. For more info call us @ 1.866.411.SITE

Avoid costly problems by having your property inspected by a professional inspector.

Celebrity Inspections

We’ve been fortunate to provide inspection services for some famous folks. Nice properties – nice people.

Rocker – Kid Rock

Secretary of Energy & Senator – Spencer Abraham

Owner of Real Estate One – Stuart Elsea

Detroit Tigers megastar- Pudge Rodriguez (Please Help Us Pudge!)

Detroit Piston Star – Lindsey Hunter

Detroit Lions football announcer – Mark Champion

Founder of ABC Warehouse – Gordy

Detroit Shock Star Swin Cash

Julie Pasquinelli

Structure & Site Inspection Services

248.645.5522

866.411.SITE

http://www.the411site.com