Home Inspection Blog

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The 5 MOST Helpful Home Inspection Tips for Sellers

Are you planning to sell your home? Then you know that any interested buyer is going to have a home inspector look over your property before signing on the dotted line.

So, before you put your house on the market, you will want to take the necessary steps to ensure the review process goes smoothly to seal the deal. To make your house more appealing to buyers and boost your chance of a sale, here are some home inspection tips for sellers.

Declutter your home

This might seem like a given, but many homeowners neglect this important step when preparing for a home inspection. Be sure to clear away the clutter from HVAC units, furnaces, and utility closets. This is a good time to check your attic for mould as well.

You will also want to ensure that basements, attics, and the garage are free of debris to allow for easier maneuverability for the inspector and the potential buyer. While you are cleaning up, test the smoke and carbon detectors, and replace burned out bulbs.

Prepare a game plan for repairs

When it comes to preparing for a home inspection, it is always a good idea to know what inspectors look for. There are several items you should be prepared to fix or negotiate in the sale of the house, including structural integrity issues, roof damage, electrical system problems, plumbing concerns, and signs of water damage.

Knowing what needs to be repaired now will help you avoid being caught off guard later. Some potential buyers might bring their own home inspection checklist, something to keep in mind when you’re getting your own home ready.

Ensure the house is fully accessible

Home inspectors will need to conduct a thorough review of your entire property. So, it is important that your home is easily accessible for the inspector and the interested buyer.

If you won’t be there during the inspection process, provide the inspector with any necessary keys, garage door openers, or door codes for your home. You should also leave all the utilities on and provide remotes to lights or ceiling fans.

Provide all necessary documents to the inspector

Did you have any major repairs or upgrades done to your home? Before your home inspection, gather up any relevant documents like receipts and warranties for the inspector.

Having the precise information will help the inspector create an accurate report on repairs and renovations to provide to the potential buyer.

Make plans

As you might expect, the home inspection process can be a lengthy one, taking up to three hours or more to complete.

What’s more, the potential buyer will be present to go through the process with the inspector, learning about your home. If you are there during the inspection, the buyer may feel uncomfortable asking specific questions in your presence.

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Home Inspection Checklist for First-Time Home Buyers

Was your offer accepted on that home you have been dreaming about? Congratulations! But you might want to hold off on celebrating just yet.

Purchasing a home is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. It is not only a big financial investment, but also a place where you and the ones you care about will create memories that will last a lifetime. So, before you sign on the dotted line, make sure there won’t be unwelcome surprises after you move in.

As a first-time home buyer, house hunting can be an exciting and overwhelming experience, rife with emotions and uncertainties. To help make the home-buying process go as smoothly as possible, read on to learn what every home inspection checklist should include.

House Exterior

  • Roof
    Do you notice any damaged, cracked, or missing shingles? Are there stains, moss, or dark spots? Also, find out how old the roof is and if it needs repair or replacement. Is the chimney in good condition?
  • Exterior
    What is the condition of the gutters and downspouts? Can you see evidence of standing water? Does the siding appear to be in good shape? Is there proper drainage transporting water away from the house? Is the exterior paint peeling or faded
  • Foundation
    Can you see cracks in the concrete or on the structure? Are there shifts in the foundation at the base of the walls? Are there signs of rotting wood or termite damage?
  • Windows and Doors
    Do they open and close easily? Notice any darks spots of moisture around frames or between panes? Are they caulked properly?
  • Yard and Deck
    Are the walkways and driveways in good condition? Do you see any damage to the garage, patio, and stairs? Does the property come with a deck? If so, inspect the boards for signs of rotting, warping, and cracking.

House Interior

  • Heating and Cooling
    Are there any strange odours coming from inside the home? Are the home’s heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system (HVAC) functioning properly? How old is the water heater?
  • Attic
    Notice any stains on the underside of the roofing in the attic? Is there enough insulation and ventilation? Are there any open electrical splices? Is there any moisture buildup?
  • Plumbing
    Is there sufficient water pressure? Spot any leaks around the sinks? Do the toilets flush properly? Do the pipes leak? Are there leaks in the septic tank?
  • Electrical
    Do all the light switches work? Are the cables secured and protected? Can you find the electrical panel? Are the ceiling fans functioning?
  • Home safety
    Can you locate the required smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? Does the property come with a fire extinguisher? For older homes, ask about the possible presence of asbestos and lead paint.

While having your own home inspection checklist is great, it is always a good idea to hire a professional home inspector. A trained specialist will have the knowledge and experience to spot hidden issues you might have missed that can come back and haunt you later.

The typical inspection lasts two to three hours to complete. The home inspector will examine the condition of the house you are planning to buy, assessing the property from top to bottom. Once they are done, the home inspector will provide you with a written report on their findings, notifying you about any potential problems.

No matter how much you may want that house, don’t turn a blind eye to those potential red flags. With the right home inspection checklist and home inspector by your side, you will be well on your way to moving into that dream home.

If you are a first-time home buyer, reach out to House Sound Home Inspections today.

 

First-Time Home buyer checklist - person writing on a notebook

home inspection

How to Find the Right Home Inspector

find home inspector

Buying a home is one of the most important and expensive purchases of your life. So, it is easy to see why you might want to cut corners wherever you can. But if you are thinking about skipping a home inspection, think again. Without one, you could wind up stuck with a nightmare of a home, rife with problems and costly repairs. To help make the home buying process a successful one, here are some handy tips on how to find the right home inspector in West Vancouver.

Get referrals

Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure to get referrals to choose a reliable home inspector. Get feedback from your real estate agent, friends, family, and social networks. Once you have the name of a few home inspectors, do your homework and research them, reading reviews from Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List.

Ask about qualifications

You wouldn’t put the satisfaction of your future home in the hands of just anyone, would you? Always go with a pro who has the proper training and experience in the building trades. They need to be able to spot issues with foundations, doors, windows, roofs, and attics, as well as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. When it comes to choosing the right West Vancouver home inspector, they must be experts in every aspect of a property.

Join them for the home inspection

If a home inspector refuses to let you accompany them on a home inspection, that is a major red flag—and a sign for you to choose someone else. While you certainly don’t have to go along for the inspection, a reliable professional will always welcome you to do so. This is your chance to see the process firsthand. You will not only receive valuable insight into the condition of a home, but also get the chance to ask key questions about any potential problems that could crop up later.

Request a sample inspection report

Any reliable home inspector will provide you with a sample inspection report. This will give you a clear idea on what is covered in the process. A comprehensive report will document the condition of the property, along with any recommended repairs, replacements, or improvements that need to be done. The report will also include a summary of significant issues for quick reference.

Compare the costs of similar home inspection companies

It is true what they say—you really do get what you pay for. Although you should never let price alone determine which company you go with, you also don’t want to get gouged either. So, remember, a quality company is worth the extra money. Just make sure you are not getting overcharged.

Buying a new home can be exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. Choosing the right home inspector will go a long way to making the entire home buying process easier and stress-free.

Learn more about our home inspector services:

Call 604-389-9556 , or email for a home inspection now!

 

Contact House Sound Home Inspection to learn more about what a home inspector can do for you.

Home Inspectors Association BC

Five great reasons for selecting a licensed home inspector who belong to the Home Inspectors Association BC

#1: Puts safety first

Your new home should be a haven – a place that provides comfort, functionality and safety for the entire family.  Why put the wellbeing of you and your loved ones at risk if you can avoid it?

At House Sound Home Inspections Inc, we take your safety very seriously.  That’s why our licensed home inspector will thoroughly inspect the home, examining the roof, exterior, structure, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and interior systems and finishes.

If there are any concerns that can jeopardize your safety, we will immediately notify you and provide the evidence supported with photographs in the report.

#2 Maintains integrity – we only work for you

Our primary focus is to provide you, the client, with the facts to make an informed decision about whether to buy the property or not.  Whether you proceed with the deal is NOT our concern.

We belong to the Home Inspectors Association of BC (HIABC) and we work to a code of ethics that protects our clients. 

Although licensed home inspectors are not required to belong to an association, the HIABC maintains ethical standards amongst its members.  An example of this is that members are not permitted to pay real estate companies a fee to be put on their “preferred list” of home inspectors.  This would be a clear conflict of interest. 

So, when selecting your Licensed Home Inspector, check that they belong to the HIABC.

House Sound Home Inspection is a member of the Home Inspectors Association BC

#3 Alerts you to property issues

Buying a home can be a complicated business and if you don’t know how to spot the warning signs, you may be getting in over your head dealing with potential problems.  At House Sound Home Inspections Inc, we have the necessary skills, experience and training to pinpoint issues that can come back to haunt you later. We will not only alert you to property problems, but also recommend how to deal with them.

#4 Encourages sellers to invest in upkeep

Savvy sellers know that many potential buyers are going to have the property inspected – and that’s good news for you.  If the homeowners want to get their asking price, they are going to invest in repairs and maintenance. Those that don’t will risk a higher number of deficiencies being identified in the report, leading to possible delays in the transaction and completion of the sale.

#5 Saves you money

Whether it’s an easy fix or a major problem, home repair issues are always a concern for any home buyer.  If you don’t catch these major deficiencies before you complete the sale of the home, you could be liable to high remediation costs late on.

Take advantage of our home inspection services as they can help you back out of a sale or renegotiate a deal with expensive deficiencies. 

Before you buy that new home, reach out to the friendly, professional, BBB accredited and award winning* Home Sound Home Inspections Inc.

*BBB A+ rated, The Squamish Chief Reader’s Choice award winner for “Best Home Inspection & Appraisal” category, 2017 and 2018.

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Call 604-389-9556 , or email for a home inspection now!

water ingress

Unfinished Basements and Crawlspace Inspection

Routine Preventative Maintenance for Unfinished Basements and Crawlspaces

If your home has an unfinished basement or crawlspace, a good preventative maintenance activity after winter is to check it for water ingress and look at the systems visible therein (plumbing – waste and piping, heating ducts etc).  Houses that are built on hillside lots, or those built on flood plains or close to water sources, are particularly vulnerable.

If your downspouts discharge above grade, pay attention to inside the crawlspace or basement adjacent to where they discharge on the exterior.  To prevent water ingress, it is recommended that downspouts that discharge water above grade should do so 4 – 6 feet away from the house. Look for damp areas.  A building scientist once told me that 90% of wet basement and crawlspaces are caused by poor control of surface water.

water ingress unfinished basement

The photograph above shows water ingress caused by a downspout that discharges above grade and too close to the house.  Due to a lack of preventative maintenance, this had caused the sill plate of the wood frame of the house to rot. Always remember, preventative maintenance will save you money in the long term.

In older houses, if they are fitted with a perimeter drainage tile, it is recommended that these are checked annually with a CCTV camera to ensure that they still functioning and are not broken or blocked.  Tree, plant and scrubs roots can invade drainage tiles in their search for water. Most plumbing contractors offer this service at reasonable cost. Black corrugated plastic and old cement drainage tiles can be prone to failure.

Cracks in foundation

Finally, check the foundation walls for cracks.  If you know your foundation walls already has these, check to ensure that they have not changed.  If they have been subject to repair, check that the repair is still good.

Most cracks in foundation walls are not serious, but if present, monitoring for changes is recommended.  The example below shows a typical minor crack. Anything else should be repaired.

minor crack found in house inspection

The photograph above shows a typical minor crack.  The foundation is not on an exposed position and there is no evidence of water ingress or differential settlement.  The 12” rule is used for scale. The crack is below 1/8” wide. This type of crack should still be monitored in case it changes.

However, here is a summary of what to look out for with cracks that require further specialist evaluation (foundation repair specialist).  This list is not exhaustive.

  • Any horizontal crack.
  • Cracks that show differential settlement (see photographs below)

foundation crack half inchFoundation crack – ½” wide  

foundation crack side view Same crack ¼” difference in vertical face

In the example shown above, the house was on a steep hillside lot with a watercourse below.  There was a similar crack on the diagonally opposite foundation wall. Combined factors suggested that the corner of the house had moved.  This is a good example where advice of a structural engineer and foundation repair specialist should be sought. It is likely that the foundation will require underpinning.  In a pre-purchase home inspection, this should be completed prior to subject removal so that you are aware of the cost of remediation before you commit to the deal. This crack was found in a crawlspace 16” high.   It’s a good example of why you should employ a professional licensed home inspector.  

  • Cracks that are wider at the top than at the bottom
  • Cracks wider than 1/8”

Other routine checks that can save you money

The basement and crawlspace areas also provide access to check the plumbing for leaks.

          evidence of waste pipe leak in basement             Waste pipe – evidence of leak

rot from pipe leakRot to surrounding sub floor

The above example again shows the benefits of regular preventative maintenance. The leak could have been spotted earlier, before rot occurred.

So, get into your unfinished basement or crawlspace and have a look around.  In the vast majority of circumstances, nothing will have changed. But if you do notice anything unusual, the chances are that you will have caught the problem before it causes major problems.  That’s the whole purpose of preventative maintenance.

Contact House Sounds Home Inspections

If you are unsure about the state of your basement or crawlspace, click here to contact Mark or Gerrie Goodwin with House Sound for a thorough and professional home inspection.

Learn more about the home inspection services:

Call 604-389-9556 , or email for a home inspector now!

 

See What Customers Say about House Sound Home Inspections

Vermiculite under glass fibre attic insulation

Asbestos Home Inspection

Homes built before 1990 are more likely to contain asbestos products.  The only method to confirm the presence of asbestos is by means of a laboratory analysis.  This is beyond the scope of a visual home inspection.

Asbestos is only a health hazard if it becomes friable (airborne) and this will only become problematic if you intend to complete renovation or alteration of the house where potential asbestos containing material may be disturbed.

If asbestos is confirmed as being present, then this may have a financial implication due to the high cost of removal of the contaminated products by licensed contractors.

Where is asbestos found?

The common areas where asbestos products may be found are: drywall, loose fill attic insulation such as vermiculite, asbestos cement products, acoustic tiles, flooring materials such as vinyl tiles and linoleum.

asbestos home inspection - Vermiculite under glass fibre attic insulation (grey granular material). Not all vermiculite contains asbestos. If found, all vermiculite should be laboratory tested for asbestos.Vermiculite under glass fibre attic insulation (grey granular material).  Not all vermiculite contains asbestos. If found, all vermiculite should be laboratory tested for asbestos.

 

asbestos home inspection - White “bandage” type duct tape may contain asbestos (laboratory test required to confirm)White “bandage” type duct tape may contain asbestos (laboratory test required to confirm).

 

Resources

Work safe BC produce a guide showing the possible locations and appropriate advice for dealing with asbestos.  Here is a link to their website where this information can be obtained:

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/slide-shows/asbestos-in-demolition-and-renovation?lang=en

moss tree debris roof

Moss and Tree Debris on Roofs

roof-house-inspection

The definition of a roof, according to Wikipedia is: “Part of a building envelope. It is the covering on the uppermost part of a building or shelter which provides protection from animals and weather, notably rain or snow, but also heat, wind and sunlight. The word also denotes the framing or structure which supports that covering.”

In providing protection from the weather, one of the principal functions of a roof is to shed water efficiently.  This efficiency can be substantially reduced by the presence of moss and tree debris on the roof surface, in the gutters and valleys (the area between differing roof profiles).  

Moss is a plant that rests on the roof surface and can retain water.  This can lead to premature deterioration of the roof surface.

Removal of moss growth is dependent on a number of factors such as the amount present, how long it has been there, and the roof type.  It is recommended to check your roof frequently, especially after storms and heavy weather and more frequently if you have trees near to your house.

Tree debris consists of leaves, fir and pine tree needles and branches that can usually be removed by hand.

Removing moss and debris from the roof, valleys, skylight flashings and gutters should be considered a routine maintenance task.

Pressure washers should be used cautiously as if the pressure is set too high, the cleaning process can damage the roof. With this in mind, and considering roofs with heavy moss growth, I would recommend consulting a house exterior cleaning (detailing) contractor to assess the best method of removal.

Tree branches that physically come into contact with any roof can quickly deteriorate the roof surface.  When blown in the wind, the branches in contact with the roof act as an abrasive. Trees also can shade the roof and prevent it from drying.   Additionally, tree branches provide an access roof for wildlife, such as rodents (rats & squirrels) that may find access into your nice dry and warm attic.  It is recommended that tree branches be trimmed back so that they don’t come into contact with the roof – please consult a certified arborist contractor before any work is undertaken.

If you have any questions or need advice about debris on roofs, please do not hesitate to contact House Sound Home Inspection!

 

Thermal imaging Infrared cameras for home inspections

Infrared Home Inspections With Thermal Imaging Cameras

Using Infrared Thermal Imaging for Home Inspections

Anyone can buy and use an infrared thermal imaging camera. Many Licensed Home Inspectors are using infrared cameras as part of a home inspection.  The term for using infrared cameras and correctly interpreting the results is known as “Infrared Thermography”.  As Thermal Imaging equipment improves and comes down in cost, it is increasingly being used to add an extra layer of knowledge when home inspections are done.  The can also be great for verifying how and how well a heating system is working or finding problem spots that need more investigation.  

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Checking Your Attic For Mould

Remember to check your attic!!

Checking your attic should form part of a routine house maintenance program.

The attic is a great way of checking for roof leaks and doing this on a regular basis means that any leak will be detected before it can do major, and costly, damage to your roof structure. Especially check around chimney and skylight penetrations as these have a higher chance of providing locations for water ingress.

Attics in the Pacific North West can also be prone to organic growth (mould, mildew etc), usually on the roof sheathing with the North facing side being particularly vulnerable. Mould/mildew spores surround us and are part of life. Look at what can happen to a stale piece of bread or fruit.

In order for spores to germinate, three things are required. The first is a food source (in an attic this is usually wood sheathing), the second is the correct temperature and finally – moisture. Remove any one of these three requirements and the mould growth ceases. The only thing that we can control with any certainty is moisture and this is contained in the air.

So the best way that we can prevent and control mould growth in attics is to reduce moisture levels.

So why do we need to check our attics a part of a preventative maintenance program?

In some houses, both the bathroom and dryer vents run through the attic and vent via the roof. If these become loose or detached from the roof, then the warm moist air contained in the exhaust discharges into the attic and provides two key ingredients for mould growth to thrive – moisture and heat. So please check the exhaust vent connections for air leakage and make sure the connection at the roof is in good condition. The photograph below shows a recent air leak from the insulated exhaust duct – note the dark staining on the roof truss and plywood sheathing around the exhaust duct. This has been caught in the early stages before costly repairs were required.

 

Moldy leaking roof caused by the bathroom fan

If your dryer or bathroom exhaust vents are configured to discharge in the soffit area (the underside of a roof overhang), moisture-laden warm exhaust can be blown back into the attic via the vented soffit. This is dependent on the wind direction in relation to the vent termination point. Should you find black staining in the attic close to the vent termination location, the easy solution is to blank off the soffit vents 3’ either side on the exterior surface.

Another strategy to deal with mould growth is to increase ventilation in the attic. Good air flow can vent moisture-laden air from the attic before condensation can occur.

In older houses, there can be several layers of attic insulation. What can happen is that insulation can be forced up against the roof sheathing and this can severely restrict or block air flow from the soffit vents. If you have this condition in your attic, a quick and cost-effective solution is to install air ducts/baffles. The photograph on the left shows them fitted. These are specifically designed molded lightweight plastic sections that simply push fit between the insulation and roof sheathing and restore and maintain air flow from the soffit. With most new construction that have attics, air ducts/baffles are usually fitted.Inspection of insulation in the attic.

Finally, when you leave the attic, check the access hatch. It should be insulated and weather stripped. You would be surprised how much moisture-laden air can enter an attic via the hatch. Having a qualified house inspection

How To Unclog Your Gutters

Routine Maintenance – Clogged Gutters

A man cleaning clogged gutters.

A building scientist once told me that 90% of wet basements and crawlspaces are caused by poor control of surface water runoff. The primary purpose of your roof is to shed water and it does this via the gutters (eaves troughs) and downspouts. As we leave fall and enter the winter season, now is a good time to check the condition of your roof and gutters to ensure that they can efficiently remove surface water. Leaves and tree debris can block water flow in the gutters and if permitted to remain on the roof, prevent it shedding water efficiently. Moss and tree debris also retains water and this can lead to premature deterioration of your roof. Removal of moss and leaf debris is best achieved by hand with a stiff brush or by hiring a specialist cleaning contractor. Care is required if using a pressure washer because if the pressure is set too high, it can remove asphalt shingles or the surface granules. The surface granules are there to protect the asphalt from UV light. Their loss will lead to rapid shingle deterioration. With wood shingles and shakes, high-pressure washing can seriously damage them.

Whilst there, the following is a suggested maintenance routine:

  1. Check gutters and roof surfaces and remove any tree debris from the roof and
    gutters.
  2. Check the gutter connections and transitions with the downspout. Downspout
    drains frequently get blocked with tree debris. Even if your gutters are fitted with
    leaf guards, these too can get clogged with leaf debris.
  3. Check the condition of the fasteners that secure the gutter to the fascia board.
    Loose or deteriorated fasteners will not hold the gutter in position should there be
    heavy snowfall and melt during the winter.
  4. If you have skylights, check the condition of the curb/flashing and look for moss
    growth and leaf debris close to the skylight.
  5. Downspouts either discharge into a perimeter drainage tile or above grade. If
    yours discharge above grade, then the distance from the foundation should be a
    minimum of 4’.
  6. Remember – only get on a roof if it is safe. Always follow Worksafe BC advice regarding working at heights. Here a link to their website for advice: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/hazards-exposures/falls-from-elevation Removal of leaf debris and moss from your roof and gutters is required routine maintenance task that will save you both time and money in the long term. When those heavy winter storms hit, you will know that your roof and gutters are in the best condition to perform their intended function – the efficient removal of surface water away from your home.

Monitor cracks in concrete

We’ve been getting some beautiful days recently, so take a few moments to walk around your home – carry out a visual inspection of the foundation, paths, steps and concrete sidewalks to ensure that no wintertime damage has occurred. While small cracks are nothing to worry about, if new ones appear and they seem to be getting wider, you may need some expert advice. Rapid deterioration can be prevented by sealing cracks. Avoid them turning into a big problem and increasing your maintenance costs.

Sidewalk with cracks

Mould/mildew prevention in your attic space

Mould or mildew spores are everywhere but only develop if three conditions are met. They are:
1) A food source, usually the wood components;
2) The right temperature (40-140 degrees F);
3) Moisture.

The easiest thing to control is moisture. The main source in the attic comes from moisture-laden air from the living space. It enters from uninsulated ceiling light fittings, any gaps in the vapour barrier or un-weather sealed attic hatches. Any moisture that does enter should be removed by adequate air flow in the attic space, hence the importance of the ventilation provision.

attic mould

Improve your attic insulation

If you are thinking of improving your attic insulation by using a “blown in” insulation product, remember to install baffles between each rafter or truss to maintain outside airflow from the soffits.

If installing insulating batts or blankets, keep these away from the soffit areas to maintain airflow.

Outside air flow in the attic is essential to remove warm moist air from the living area that may have entered the attic space.

Attic Inspection House Sound Home Inspection

 

 

Flexible plastic ducting

This material is frequently used to connect the dryer with the exterior so that warm moist air can be exhausted to the outside. It’s cheap and easy to use but I’m not a great fan of this material because the ridges can trap lint and severely restrict air flow. The photograph below shows excess plastic ducting used to connect the dryer with the exterior. It is located in a large crawlspace and the area is likely to be cold. Here’s what can happen:
• Due to the long run and changes in direction, the movement of exhaust air will be restricted. It is likely that before the air reaches the exterior, it will cool;
• The high moisture content in the air will condense and collect at the lowest point;
• The weight of the water will also pull the ducting down, making the situation worse;
• Eventually, the condensed water will totally block air flow;
• Being uninsulated in a cold or unheated crawlspace, the water could also freeze during the winter;
• The build-up of lint may also be a fire risk.
I recommended to my clients that they replace this with an insulated metal duct and have a horizontal run from the duct entrance above the white pipe to the exterior wall on the right, as shown by the arrow. This is a simple and inexpensive solution that will prevent major problems.
ducting Jan 21, 2015

 

Advice about vermiculite

What is Vermiculite?

Vermiculite is a granular material used as a loose fill insulation in homes. It was most prevalent in homes built during the 1950s and 1960s and is usually found in the attic. It was marketed under the brand name of Zonalite.

What are the concerns?

It was found that some vermiculite, specifically from Libby Montana and a mine in Virginia, was heavily contaminated with asbestos. Asbestos that becomes airborne is a health hazard. However, not all vermiculite contains asbestos.

How do you remove vermiculite?

Removal of vermiculite is recommended. If you are about to list your home, the presence of vermiculite may, and probably will, deter buyers. If it’s found in a home you intend to buy, have it removed before the deal is finalized simply because it may still be a potential health hazard and will pose a difficulty on re-sale. Typical remediation is under $20,000.

What should a Home Inspector do?

A Home inspector is required to notify you of the presence of vermiculite and of the potential health risks. Best practice is to recommend further evaluation by a specialist to verify the presence of asbestos or not. Home inspectors are not usually certified to conduct asbestos testing of vermiculite as this requires specialist knowledge, training, and equipment.

Home Maintenance Tips August 2014

With the end of Summer approaching, it’s always a sensible idea to check your property for any maintenance issues. Here’s a helpful link:
http://charlesandhudson.com/your_end_of_summer_home_maintenance_checklist/

If buying a condo/apartment or other home managed by a strata, we recommend that you examine management records to assess what repairs and maintenance issues you are responsible for.

Home Maintenance Tips July 2014

Installing an above-ground pool? Check this info: http://www.zillow.com/blog/above-ground-swimming-pool-guide-155527/?utm_content=buffer8f095&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer

Safety in the home: make sure you have fire extinguishers on every floor of your home – the one located near your kitchen should be suitable for grease fires. Also plan fire escape routes from your home, especially from the upper stories.

Home maintenance tip: check the condensation pan for leaks in air conditioning/heat pump installations.

Home maintenance tip: change your forced air systems air filter every 3 months. This will maintain interior air quality and reduce wear on the blower fan

Home Maintenance Tip June 2014

SLIDING DOORS AND WINDOWS: ensure their tracks are cleaned every three months and also, to reduce the risk of water damage to your home, check that the drain holes are open.

FOR THE SPRING: remove leaf debris from gutters and the screen at the top of downspouts. If you don’t have screens, it is recommended that these are fitted as they are a cheap, cost-effective way to prevent problems arising. The ability for water to drain from your home is the key to preventative maintenance.

Home Maintenance Tips June 2014

Summer maintenance: have your heating system serviced during the summer months on an annual basis.

Summer maintenance: complete exterior house painting during the fine summer weather in time for the onset of winter.

Summer maintenance: check caulk condition at window trim and frames to ensure that wind driven rain cannot penetrate. Repair in time for autumn and winter.

Importance of Annual Furnace Servicing

With winter upon us, isn’t it great to return to your warm cozy home? Please remember that with the long hot summer, it may be some time since your furnace last ran, and now it’s likely to be running frequently. Here are a couple of tips that you may have done already, but let’s consider them reminders:

1. It’s important to have your furnace serviced on an annual basis. This is to ensure that it runs efficiently and safely and now is the ideal time to do it.
2. If your forced air heating system is fitted with a conventional air filter, clean or change it on a monthly basis. Conventional air filters sit in the return air plenum, just upstream of the blower. Clean filters improve the comfort of the home and help reduce heating costs.

Home Maintenance Tips December 2013

Do you have an unfinished basement or crawlspace with uninsulated water pipes running through these spaces? Check them and ensure they are insulated. If not, try some of the foam wrap available in most home improvement stores. The foam simply clips around the pipe and protects the water in the pipe from freezing, leaving you to spend time in the great outdoors rather than waiting for a plumber and insurance assessor. Minimum cost for maximum risk prevention!

HOME SAFETY TIP: make sure there’s at least one fire extinguisher on every floor of your home, and remember that the one near the kitchen must be suitable for grease fires.

Also, plan escape routes from the upper stories of your home. Having a rope ladder may be a necessity.

Home Maintenance Tips November 2013

Do you have an unfinished basement or crawlspace with uninsulated water pipes running through these spaces? Check them and ensure they are insulated. If not, try some of the foam wrap available in most home improvement stores. The foam simply clips around the pipe and protects the water in the pipe from freezing, leaving you to spend time in the great outdoors rather than waiting for a plumber and insurance assessor. Minimum cost for maximum risk prevention!

HOME MAINTENANCE – TIP HEATING AND AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS: House Sound Home Inspections recommends that you set up a service contract to ensure that your heating and air-conditioning systems are properly maintained to make sure they are inspected and serviced to protect your investment in them.

Home Maintenance Tip

HOME MAINTENANCE TIP: test ground fault circuit interrupters monthly to make sure they work if there is an electrical problem.

Home Maintenance Tips

MONTHLY: to reduce energy costs and reduce the risk of fires caused by grease, clean range hood filters.