The state of Ohio has started issuing licenses for home inspectors in an effort to raise the overall standard of inspections. While not yet required, we went ahead and have become some of the first licensed inspectors in the state. The application which involved getting FBI background checks as well as submitting a record of […]Read More about Home Inspectors In Ohio Must Be Licensed
Archives for 2019
Leaking Vent Pipe Boot, Replacement
Where the plumbing vent pipe exits through the roof shingles, there is a metal plate with a rubber gasket (boot) that stops water leaking into the attic. The flashing boot will generally deteriorate and start leaking water into the attic after about twelve years, that’s long before it’s time to re-roof. When boots need to […]Read More about Leaking Vent Pipe Boot, Replacement
Where Are the Gas Shut Off Valves Located?
Assuming it’s a small leak, one that’s hard to smell, the first thing to do is turn off the gas to the unit. The requirement is that there must be a shut off valve within six feet of and in the same room as the gas appliance. Turn off the valve (a quarter turn on […]Read More about Where Are the Gas Shut Off Valves Located?
Commercial Inspection Issues
We are always busy with commercial business inspections which are challenging and often unusual. The commercial properties are all so different, large multi unit apartment buildings, offices, movie multiplex theaters, schools, car wash, an animal shelter, convenience stores, strip malls, motels, warehouses, drive thru liquor stores, medical offices, so varied and of course numerous restaurants. […]Read More about Commercial Inspection Issues
Don’t Ever Assume!! (As You Start a Project)
In life I have discovered that it’s a good policy never to assume that something works, that the door is locked, that you have your ticket and passport in your backpack as you head to the airport. Over the last 20 years of inspecting homes, offices, hotels and everything else from Chinese restaurants to schools, […]Read More about Don’t Ever Assume!! (As You Start a Project)
Planning DIY Projects Pays Dividends
The old saying: measure twice cut once can apply to many DIY projects. Before rushing out and buying what you think you need for a project, it can pay off to plan what you are doing. If it’s a big project tape it out on the ground or walls, measure, re measure and make sure […]Read More about Planning DIY Projects Pays Dividends
Is Your Garage Door Intended For Use With an Opener ?
Video about reinforcing garage doors. The top of a garage door must be reinforced if it is going to be used with a garage door opener, otherwise the top panel will buckle and possibly rip the door out of the track. These bars or “struts” are not very expensive and are available from all garage […]Read More about Is Your Garage Door Intended For Use With an Opener ?
Your AC Condenser Does Not Like “Economy”
Air conditioners (condensers) positioned out of the way in a small space are not unlike unfortunate fliers in economy. They are in a space smaller than required and asked to behave as though everything is OK. When there are two condensers side by side they want 28” of space (yes, like leg room) between them, […]Read More about Your AC Condenser Does Not Like “Economy”
Common or Shared Neutral Wiring at Breaker
Video shows connections; Where two electrical circuits share the same neutral wire, the two breakers must have a common trip and be fed from opposite phases which are alternated from one breaker to the next.It is a fire safety concern if they are incorrectly wired and positioned.
Being Thorough Pays Off! Electrician was wrong
Recently we inspected a home in Yellow Springs, the house was built in 1920, our report being detailed identified that there was Knob & Tube wiring in the home. Our client was very diligent and immediately hired a licensed electrician to inspect the wiring and recommend if any rewiring would be necessary due to the […]Read More about Being Thorough Pays Off! Electrician was wrong
Disconnect Switch Required for Furnace
Video: Furnace must have a disconnect switch and not always where you think it might be.
Roof Leaks, There is one way of managing them!
In this day and age it’s all about multi tasking in our lives and multi purpose when it comes to equipment. Inspecting an older home, we were surprised to find a secondary use for a kids paddling pool! Up in the attic, strategically positioned to collect water as it leaked into the attic was their […]Read More about Roof Leaks, There is one way of managing them!
“ Windows Require Safety Glass If…….”
The beautiful big new picture windows installed in this remodeled house “passed” the five point test to determine that they must be made with safety glass. Safety glass is required when window meets all 5 requirements:1) they were less than 18″ from floor2) the top of glass was more than 36″ above floor3) the size […]Read More about “ Windows Require Safety Glass If…….”
Home Inspection “Put in Perspective”
Sometimes we all get caught up in what needs to be inspected and what must be repaired when buying a home. All to often we forget what life is all about and what is important in life. Last week arriving at a very small condo on a bright sunny morning and was greeted by the […]Read More about Home Inspection “Put in Perspective”