The following items are conditions frequently identified during a home inspection, pest inspection or appraisal. Awareness of these by the seller, and a little remedial action, will always result in a smoother transaction.
EARTH TO WOOD CONTACT
Probably is the most frequently noted condition. Any contact by dirt against a wood surface, including pressure treated wood, will eventually result in deterioration to the wood. Soil and bark dust should be removed to six inches below any wood siding.
BUSHES, SHRUBS AND TREES
In contact with, or adjacent to the siding of the home permits moisture build up and provides a path for wood destroying insects. Trim back from the side of the house at least 12 inches.
CAULKING
Tub and/or shower. Two areas of concern: (1) where the vinyl flooring meets the tub or shower (2) between the tiles. The breakdown of proper caulking is the major cause of rot in the sub-floor and behind wall structure surrounds (tile, marble, etc.).
ROOF
Replace missing shingles and remove moss and pine needle buildups. Trim back any tree branches that extend over the roof. Roofs may be professionally treated to both eliminate the moss and enhance their appearance.
GUTTERS
Should be completely clear of all foreign material. Check the opening at the downspout to be sure it is draining properly. Repair any sagging or bent gutters and any leaking joints.
DOWNSPOUTS
Check to make sure they are draining properly. Add splash blocks to divert water away from house. (“Ponding” water from improper downspout runoff is a major cause of flooding in a crawl space or basement).
CRAWL SPACE
Remove all storage from around the access hole. Remove all wood scrap, cardboard and other debris. Any fallen insulation should be repaired or replaced. Check for any obvious leaks at traps and toilets. Check to make sure that all ventilation holes are clear and have not been covered.
HOT WATER TANK
Requires proper venting and safety release discharge valve. Tanks heated with natural gas should have earthquake straps.
ATTIC
Check to make sure that exhaust fans do not vent into attic. Also look for signs of roof leakage. Clear anything that is blocking ventilation.
TOILETS
Frequently loose. Tighten the closet bolts (not too tight) that hold it down. Optionally you can replace the wax ring and closet bolts with new ones.
PORCH/DECK
Check the deck/porch flooring and replace damaged material. Check for loose railings. Often decks lack proper sway braces which can be easily added. Again, make sure that any deck support posts do not have any earth-wood contact at the base.
APPLIANCES
Verify that all of the top elements on the range are working and replace if needed. Check that all of the oven features work. Make sure the kitchen vent works properly. Inspect the dishwasher particularly for door seal leaks.
FIREWOOD
Or other wood or lumber should not be stored against the house.
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