As you arrive on a location, it is best to start on the outside of the structure first. This way you can examine all of the exterior wood trim, rooftops, chimneys, rain gutters, downspouts and splash blocks. In addition, you can also examine the sprinklers and any water leaks that may be visible as well as standing water on the ground next to the structure which is not allowed.
Porch covers
When inspecting porch covers, look for the obvious signs of water damage, wood rot, fungi growth, and wood deterioration. If any of the above discrepancy are discovered make a note of it and negotiate repairs.
The existing cover is in need of repairs as well as wood replacement.
Wood trim
You should examine the exterior wood trim to look for obvious signs of wood rot and deterioration, warped sections, and unpainted wood. In addition, look for loose or separating wood from the structure which would promote exposure to the element creating an atmosphere for moisture infiltration.
A tool, such as a flathead screwdriver, is required to assist you when starting your inspection in the area with rot. If you suspect that there is an area of wood trimming that has wood rot, you should begin slightly probing it to see if any rotted wood will fall out of the area under examination.
This fascia board is rotted and deteriorating. Replacement is necessary.
What to do with damaged and rotting wood?
Any wood that is found with excessive rot or deterioration should be replaced. In addition, any exterior wood trim showing slight separation from the structure should be sealed with an exterior weatherized caulking or silicone method to protect the joints from moisture infiltration.
Whenever the exterior wood trim is showing signs of loose and separating sections of wood that is beyond repair, replacement of the damaged wood trim is recommended.
Usually the pest control agencies may replace the rotted and deteriorated wood as well as termite infested wood. I recommend discussing the rotted wood replacement with the real estate agent.
This exterior trim below the front support column is not only rotted but it has wood attack from termite infestation as well. If you look closely, you will see a small brown termite in the right corner burrowing into the wood.
The discrepancy above must be evaluated by a pest-control agency to determine if there is a significant termite problem. Following the evaluation, the pest-control agency should treat the infected area and replace the rotted wood.
Newly replaced wood must be protected from the elements by sealing and painting the bare wood. This method is designed to prolong the life of the wood.
This exterior trim below was penetrated by excessive moisture resulting from the sprinklers spraying against the column, which have promoted wood rot and deterioration.
In a situation like this, I would recommend for a further evaluation by a pest-control agency to determine if there is an inactive or active termite problem. After that, the rotted wood should be replaced.
It would be in your best interest to make a note of your findings and then try to negotiate with the selling party to have excessively damaged wood replaced
It would be in your best interest to make a note of your findings and then try to negotiate with the selling party to have excessively damaged wood replaced
It is imperative to pay close attention to freshly painted exterior wood surfaces. Many homeowners today will use wood filler or even plaster as a method of filling in the damaged and rotted sections instead of spending money to properly replace the wood.
Another thing to look for is cracks, brittle, or a smooth finish in the wood surface that are not consistent with the existing wood grain. Some problems can be found in the fascia boards, wood board siding, wooden support columns, the exterior window casing, etc.
I recommend using a small flathead screwdriver as a probing device and slightly rotating the screwdriver around in the areas of concern. Be very careful when probing wood surfaces because some of the sellers do not appreciate holes being made around the property, especially if the home is not purchased by you or falls out of escrow.
If you want to avoid any controversy with the sellers, it is recommended to hire a professional certified home inspector to conduct the inspection for you.
Rain gutters and downspouts
The installation of rain gutters and downspouts are nice to have for the sole purpose of catching the rain runoff from the roof and diverting water away from the structure. Without the installation of rain gutters, water can seep into the basement, crawlspace, and foundation. You will find many structures that lack the installation of rain gutters and downspouts. It is not mandatory for the seller to install them before selling the home.
There are several key points when checking the rain gutters and downspouts. Make sure that the gutters are free from obstruction such as twigs and leaves.
You should also look for missing, damaged, or sagging sections in the gutters. This step will require the use of a ladder. I do not recommend that an inexperienced person climbs up the ladder, especially during rainy and windy conditions.
It will be in your best interest to hire a professional inspector or an experienced licensed rain gutter contractor to conduct the inspection for you. If these discrepancies are present, repairs or replacement is necessary.
The rain gutter below is currently leaking at the seams where the to gutters join together. I would recommend replacing the gutter instead of trying to patch the problem.
Here is a photo of a downspout without a splash block at the discharging end of the spout. Remember, a splash block is recommended at the base of the spout for the purpose of
diverting water away from the structure.
Standing water on the property is not allowed. It must have an adequate means to drain. The photos below show water resting on the grass adjacent to the concrete slab and block wall. The installer who laid the slab failed to put in a drainage system to move water from the property. This problem does not meet code requirements and violates the vecter control ordinance because the standing water is promoting a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Please make a note of it.
Whenever there is a swimming pool present, the fencing surrounding the pool area must remain in good repair. Fencing and pedestrian gates that fail to meet pool barrier requirements must be corrected immediately because of the hazardous condition involved. It is recommended to consult with your local jurisdiction to determine what the pool requirements are in your area.
The drain cover is missing at the bottom of the pool. This must be corrected right away by installing a new drain cover. If this problem is not repaired, someone could be held down by the suction from the pump and drawn.
My friends, I hope that this little bit of information was helpful to you. May your home purchasing experience be a great one.
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