Best Orange County CA Home Inspector 949-401-8996

Best Home Inspections In Orange County CA

Top Roof Issues Found in Orange County: How a Home Inspector Can Help

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When it comes to maintaining a home in Orange County, one of the most important areas to focus on is the roof. Not only does the roof protect the home from the elements, but it also plays a significant role in its overall curb appeal and value. However, like any other part of a home, the roof is susceptible to wear and tear over time, and it is essential to have it inspected regularly to ensure that it is in good condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the top roof issues found in Orange County and all types of problems that a home inspector will be looking for during a roof inspection.

  1. Missing or Damaged Tiles/Shingles

One of the most common roof issues found in Orange County is missing or damaged shingles. This can occur due to high winds, hail, or general wear and tear. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for any signs of missing or damaged shingles, as well as any areas where the shingles may be loose or deteriorating.

  1. Leaks

Another common issue with roofs is leaks. Leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, including damaged flashing, missing shingles, or cracks in the roof. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for any signs of water damage or leaks, including water stains on the ceiling, dampness in the attic, or mold growth.

  1. Poor Installation

In some cases, roof issues can be caused by poor installation. This can include improperly installed flashing, inadequate ventilation, or using the wrong type of roofing material for the climate. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for any signs of poor installation, including uneven shingle patterns, loose flashing, or inadequate ventilation.

  1. Pest Infestations

Pests such as rodents, birds, and insects can cause significant damage to a roof. This can include gnawing through the roof decking, chewing on electrical wiring, or building nests in the attic. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for any signs of pest infestations, including droppings, nests, or chewed materials.

  1. Age

The age of a roof can also be a significant factor in its condition. Most roofs have a lifespan of 20-25 years, depending on the type of material used. As a roof ages, it can become more susceptible to damage from weather, pests, and other factors. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for any signs of wear and tear, as well as any areas where the roof may be nearing the end of its lifespan.

  1. Poor Maintenance

Another common issue with roofs is poor maintenance. This can include neglecting to clean gutters, failing to remove debris from the roof, or not keeping up with regular inspections. Poor maintenance can lead to a variety of issues, including leaks, pest infestations, and damage to the roof. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for any signs of poor maintenance and will advise the homeowner on how to maintain their roof properly.

Benefits of Using a Drone for a Roof Inspection

Drone roof inspection
Roof inspection using a drone

Using a drone for a roof inspection provides a variety of benefits. First, it allows the inspector to get a closer look at the roof without having to climb up on it, which can be dangerous. Drones can also capture high-quality images and video, which can be used to identify any issues with the roof. This includes identifying areas where shingles may be missing, locating leaks, or identifying areas where the roof may be damaged. Additionally, using a drone for a roof inspection can save time and provide a more comprehensive look at the roof’s condition.

At Coastal Property Inspections of Orange County, we use a drone for all of our roof inspections at no additional charge. We believe that using a drone provides the most accurate assessment of a roof’s condition, which is why we include it in our standard home inspection. Our goal is to help homeowners in Orange County maintain their homes and keep them in good condition for years to come.

In conclusion, maintaining a roof is essential to protect a home from the elements and maintain its value. During a roof inspection, a home inspector will be looking for a variety of issues, including missing or damaged shingles, leaks, poor installation, pest infestations, age, and poor maintenance. Using a drone for a roof inspection provides a variety of benefits, including a more comprehensive look at the roof’s condition and the ability to identify any issues more accurately. For a great Orange County Roof Inspection, hire Coastal Property Inspections to do your home maintenance inspection, pre-listing inspection or home buyer’s inspection today.

For more information about Coastal Property Inspections, please visit our website.

 

Understanding Different Types of Roofs in Southern California

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Understanding Different Types of Roofs in Southern California: Pros, Cons, and What to Look for When Buying or Selling a Home

Introduction:

When it comes to buying or selling a home in Southern California, the roof is an important aspect to consider. It not only provides protection from the elements but also affects the overall value of the property. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of roofs found in Southern California, including their pros and cons, and what to look for when inspecting a roof before making a purchase or selling a property.

Drone Roof Inspections
Tile Roof

Types of Roofs Found in Southern California:

  1. Shingle Roofs:

Shingle roofs are the most common type of roofing found in Southern California. They are relatively affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors. Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for shingle roofs in the area. The benefits of shingle roofs are that they are lightweight, easy to repair, and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, they are prone to damage in extreme weather conditions, such as heavy winds or hail, and are not as durable as other types of roofing.

  1. Tile Roofs:

Tile roofs are a popular choice for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Clay and concrete tiles are commonly used in Southern California due to their ability to withstand the heat and resist damage from UV rays. Tile roofs can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance and can help keep the house cool in the hot Southern California sun. However, they are more expensive to install and repair than other types of roofing, and they are heavier than shingle roofs, requiring a strong roof structure.

  1. Metal Roofs:

Metal roofs are becoming more popular in Southern California due to their durability and energy efficiency. They are made of steel, aluminum, or copper and can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Metal roofs reflect heat from the sun, reducing the need for air conditioning, and are environmentally friendly since they can be recycled at the end of their lifespan. However, they can be more expensive than other types of roofing and can be noisy in heavy rain.

Whether you’re buying or selling a home, it’s important to inspect the roof to ensure that it’s in good condition. Here are some things to look for when inspecting a roof:

  1. Age of the Roof:

Knowing the age of the roof is essential because it helps determine how long it will last and when it might need to be replaced. A typical shingle roof can last up to 30 years, while a tile or metal roof can last up to 50 years or more.

  1. Signs of Damage:

Look for signs of damage such as missing or cracked shingles or tiles, rust spots, or holes in the metal roof. Any of these issues can indicate water damage, which can lead to leaks and costly repairs.

  1. Sagging or Uneven Roofline:

A sagging or uneven roofline can indicate a problem with the roof structure, such as rot or damage to the support beams. This issue needs to be addressed immediately as it can lead to a collapse of the roof.

  1. Flashing and Ventilation:

Make sure the flashing and ventilation around the roof are in good condition. Flashing is the metal or rubber material used to seal any gaps in the roof, while ventilation helps remove excess moisture and heat from the attic. Poor flashing or ventilation can lead to water damage and mold growth.

Conclusion:

Understanding the different types of roofs found in Southern California, their pros and cons, and what to look for when inspecting a roof can help you make informed decisions when buying or selling a home. At Coastal Property Inspections, we offer comprehensive roof inspections to ensure that your property is in good condition and to give you peace of mind during the buying or selling process. Contact us today to schedule a roof inspection or any other type of home inspection that you need.

Remember that the roof is one of the most critical components of a home and can affect its overall value. By understanding the different types of roofs and what to look for when inspecting them, you can make sure that you’re making a wise investment. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you have any concerns about the roof’s condition. A qualified home inspector can provide valuable insights and recommendations to help you make the best decisions for your property.

Understanding different types of roofs in southern california
Using A Drone To Inspect a Tile Roof

 

 

 

Coastal Property Inspections in Orange County will provide a thorough roof inspection as part of their comprehensive home inspection. CPI uses a drone to capture the entire roof, flashing, gutters, chimney, etc., to show you any defects.   If you are buying a new home or getting ready to list your home, you should have a home inspection to better understand the condition of the roof and the entire home.

To schedule your home inspection, call 949-401-8996.

Prepping Your Vacant Home For Sale

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Are you a home owner getting ready to put your property on the market?  Will your home be vacant when you list it?  Here are some ways to protect your investment while also having your home show in impeccable condition:

Prepping your vacant home for sale
Checking for Leaks

Prepping your vacant home for sale is an essential aspect of the home selling process. Many homeowners and real estate agents overlook this critical step, but it can make a significant difference in how quickly your home sells and how much money you can get for it. One aspect of preparing your vacant home for sale is to check for leaky refrigerators, washers, sinks, outdoor hoses, showers, and other appliances. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of checking for these leaks and provide step-by-step instructions on how to prep a vacant home for sale.

 

Why Checking for Leaky Appliances is Important:

Leaky appliances can cause significant damage to your home, including water damage, mold growth, and other structural issues. Water damage can be expensive to repair and can lower the value of your home. Mold growth can also be hazardous to your health, and it can be costly to remediate.

When you’re selling your home, you want to make sure that everything is in good condition, and that includes appliances. By checking for leaky refrigerators, washers, sinks, outdoor hoses, and showers, you can ensure that there are no surprises for potential buyers. You don’t want to lose a sale because of a leaky appliance that could have been fixed beforehand.

Step-by-Step Instructions on Prepping a Vacant Home for Sale:

Step 1: Deep Clean

The first step in prepping a vacant home for sale is to give it a deep clean. This means cleaning every nook and cranny, including the walls, floors, and ceilings. You want to make sure that the home is in pristine condition when potential buyers come to see it.

Step 2: Declutter

The next step is to declutter the home. Remove any personal items, such as family photos, and take out any unnecessary furniture. This will make the home appear more spacious and allow potential buyers to envision themselves living there.

Step 3: Make Repairs

Make any necessary repairs, including fixing leaky appliances, patching holes in the walls, and replacing broken tiles. You want to make sure that everything is in working order, and that the home looks well-maintained.

Step 4: Stage the Home

Staging the home is another crucial step in prepping a vacant home for sale. This means setting up furniture and decor in a way that highlights the home’s best features and makes it look inviting to potential buyers. You can hire a professional stager, or you can do it yourself.

Step 5: Enhance Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is the first impression that potential buyers will have of your home. Make sure that the yard is well-maintained, and consider adding some flowers or other landscaping features. You want the home to look inviting from the outside.

Step 6: Hire a Professional Photographer

Finally, hire a professional photographer to take high-quality photos of the home. Good photos are essential for attracting potential buyers online, and you want to make sure that your home looks its best.

Step 7: Hire a Certified Professional Home Inspector
Prepping your vacant home for sale
Chris Knappett, Your Certified Professional Inspector

Another essential step in prepping a vacant home for sale is to hire a certified professional home inspector to do a pre-listing inspection. A pre-listing inspection can help you identify any potential issues with the home before putting it on the market. This way, you can make any necessary repairs or disclose any issues to potential buyers upfront, which can help you avoid surprises during the closing process.

A home inspector can check for issues such as water damage, foundation problems, electrical issues, and other issues that may not be immediately visible. By having a pre-listing inspection done, you can address any issues before they become a problem for potential buyers, which can make the home selling process smoother and less stressful.

In addition, having a pre-listing inspection can help you price your home appropriately. If there are significant issues with the home, you may need to adjust your asking price accordingly. By knowing about any issues upfront, you can set a realistic asking price that reflects the home’s condition.

Conclusion:

Prepping a vacant home for sale is an important aspect of the home selling process. Checking for leaky appliances, deep cleaning, decluttering, making repairs, staging the home, enhancing curb appeal, and hiring a professional photographer are all essential steps in preparing your home for sale. Additionally, hiring a certified professional home inspector to do a pre-listing inspection can help you avoid surprises and make the home selling process smoother. By following these steps, you can ensure that your home is in its best possible condition and ready to attract potential buyers.

Why Hire Coastal Property Inspections to do your pre-listing inspection?

Home Inspections: The Key to Avoiding Hidden Costs

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Home Inspections: The Key to Avoiding Hidden Costs

Attention, all future homeowners! Do you want to avoid hidden costs and potential headaches when buying a new home? Of course, you do! And the best way to do that is with a home inspection!

Home Inspection: Avoiding Hidden Costs
What’s his red flag?

Think of a home inspection like a first date. You want to make sure everything looks good on the surface, but you also want to make sure there aren’t any hidden red flags lurking underneath. And trust me, just like on a first date, you don’t want any surprises popping up later.

The key to avoiding hidden costs during a home inspection, a professional inspector will take a close look at all the visible areas and systems of the home, just like you would on a first date. They’ll check out the roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling systems, attic and more. And just like on a first date, they might uncover some hidden quirks or issues that you didn’t notice before.

Some hidden costs may come from a slow plumbing leak behind a wall or roof issues.  This is why Chris, your inspector uses an infrared thermal imaging camera!  It detects excess moisture and heat that cannot be seen with the naked eye!  Chris has got you!

Avoid hidden costs
He’s looking for the red flags!

But don’t worry, future homeowners! A home inspection is not a deal-breaker. It’s a chance to address any issues before committing to the relationship (aka buying the home). And just like on a first date, communication is key! You can use the inspection report to negotiate with the seller on the price or ask them to fix any issues before closing.

So, if you want to avoid any unpleasant surprises or hidden costs, don’t skip out on the home inspection! Think of it as a chance to get to know your potential home better and make sure it’s a good match for you. Who knows, maybe it’ll be love at first sight!

For more information about the home inspection process or to speak directly with Chris Knappett, your Certified Professional Inspector, give us a call at 949-401-8996.  We look forward to meeting you and assisting you on your new home purchase!

Don’t Buy a Lemon! Why CPI is Your Best Bet for Home Inspections

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 “Don’t Buy a Lemon: Why Coastal Property Inspections is Your Best Bet for Home Inspections”

Buying a home can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. After all, it’s one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. That’s why it’s important to have a trusted partner in your corner to help you navigate the process. And when it comes to home inspections, there’s no better partner than Coastal Property Inspections in Orange County, CA.

At Coastal Property Inspections, we’re passionate about helping our clients make informed decisions about their homes. We know that every home is unique, and we take the time to thoroughly inspect every nook and cranny to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition.

Chris Knappett, Certified InterNACHI Professional Home Inspector
Chris Knappett

Our Certified Professional Inspector, Chris Knappett,  uses state-of-the-art equipment to identify any potential issues with your home, from faulty wiring to leaky pipes. We’re not just looking for cosmetic flaws; we’re digging deep to make sure that your investment is sound.

We use the latest in technology to uncover hidden issues!  Tools such as Infrared Thermal Imaging and drones for the roof inspection to name a few.   Check out how these tools will assist the home inspector  help detect what could be very costly to you if gone undetected without the use of these tools so you don’t buy a lemon!  Read about Drone and Thermal Imaging Technology

Rest assured, after Chris inspects your new home, you will know the condition and can make an educated, informed decision on whether or not you want to buy the home.  He uncovers the issues you so you don’t buy a lemon!

But don’t just take our word for it. Our clients rave about the quality of our service and the thoroughness of our inspections. Here’s what one happy homeowner had to say:

“I was blown away by the level of detail in Coastal Property Inspections’ report. They caught things that I never would have noticed, and their recommendations saved me thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. I highly recommend them to anyone in the market for a home inspection.”

And speaking of saving money, Coastal Property Inspections offers some of the most competitive pricing in the industry. We know that buying a home is already an expensive proposition, so we’re committed to providing affordable inspections that won’t break the bank.

But perhaps the best part of working with Coastal Property Inspections is our sense of humor. We know that home inspections can be dry and boring, so we do our best to inject a little bit of levity into the process. From silly jokes to fun anecdotes, we’ll keep you laughing even as we’re pointing out potential problem areas. If you meet Chris, you’ll see what we mean.

So if you’re in the market for a home inspection, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Choose Coastal Property Inspections and rest easy knowing that you’ve made a smart investment in your home.

We can be reached at 949-401-8996 and service all of Orange County, San Diego County, Temecula and the surrounding areas.

Why Get A Pre-Listing Home Inspection

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Pre-Listing Home Inspection

Introduction

Using Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera
Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera

Pre-listing home inspections are an important part of selling homes. They protect both buyers and sellers while helping you get top dollar for your listing!

A Pre-Listing Inspection is an analysis of the property before it goes on the market, providing information on defects that may have an impact on the value of your home. The homeowner/seller can choose to make corrections and repairs to show buyers that the home has been well-taken care of and is in good condition. It’s easier to go through the home inspection phase of the purchase contract when the seller has made most of the repairs and knows about any material defects prior to the buyer’s inspection.

A pre-listing home inspection is an analysis of the property before it goes on the market, providing information on defects that may have an impact on the value of your home. The homeowner/seller can choose to make corrections and repairs to show buyers that the home has been well-taken care of and is in good condition. It’s easier to go through the home inspection phase of the purchase contract when the seller has made most of the repairs and knows about any material defects prior to the buyer’s inspection. A pre-listing home inspection should be performed by a certified home inspector.

A pre-listing home inspection should be performed by a certified home inspector. The purpose of this inspection is to ensure that the seller has addressed any issues that might affect the value and marketability of their property.

It’s important for buyers to know what they’re getting into before they sign on the dotted line. A pre-listing inspection will help you determine if there are any major problems with your house and provide insight into how much money is needed to spend on repairs and maintenance. Once the buyer has performed their own inspection, you won’t have any surprises! You’ll already know what was called out on the pre-listing inspection. Sometimes the home buyer can be offered your report in lieu of getting their own inspection.

The most important purpose of a pre-listing inspection is to identify any issues that might affect a buyer’s interest in purchasing the home.

The most important purpose of a pre-listing inspection is to identify any issues that might affect a buyer’s interest in purchasing the home. A home inspector will perform an extensive examination of your property and provide you with an objective evaluation of its condition, including any defects or deficiencies that may exist.

A thorough report will include:

  • A visual summary of all major systems and components in the house (e.g., electrical system, heating/cooling system, plumbing).
  • Photos showing any problems found during the inspection process such as cracked walls or floors; damaged or missing shingles on roofs; broken windows; leaking faucets etc..
  • What’s included in a home inspection

Your clients will have questions about their future home’s condition and performance before signing on the dotted line.

You’ll be the first person to tell your clients that their new home is going to need some work. But before they can get started on the renovations and repairs, they need to know what exactly needs attention.

You can help by providing a thorough inspection of their future property. This will ensure that there are no surprises when it comes time for closing and move-in day!

Pre-listing inspections are an important part of selling homes; they protect both buyers and sellers while helping you get top dollar for your listing!

As a seller, you want to get the most money possible for your home. As a buyer, you want to find the best value for your money.

Ideally, both parties will be happy with their decisions after completing a successful sale or purchase. But when an inspection reveals that repairs are needed before listing or buying can take place, things can get dicey very quickly! That’s why it’s essential for sellers and buyers alike to understand what pre-listing inspections are all about–and why they’re so important in today’s market.

An inspection of a home prior to listing can be very beneficial for both sellers and buyers.

An inspection of a home prior to listing can be very beneficial for both sellers and buyers. This is especially true when time is of the essence, such as when you’re trying to sell your house quickly or if you’re buying a new place with an eye toward moving in within a few months.

For sellers, it allows them to make sure that everything is up-to-date before they list their property on the market (and therefore avoid spending money on repairs after it’s sold). It also gives them confidence in their asking price so they don’t feel pressured into lowering it later on because there are issues that need fixing before someone else makes an offer.

For buyers, this type of inspection provides peace of mind knowing exactly what kind of shape everything inside and outside their new home is in before they buy–saving them from surprises down the road!

Pre-Listing Inspections can help sellers save time and money.

Pre-Listing Inspections can help sellers save time and money.

Home inspections are an important step in the home buying process, but they’re especially crucial for sellers who want to ensure their property is ready for the market. A pre-listing inspection will give you a detailed report of any issues with your home’s structure or systems–and it’ll give you a chance to address those problems before they become an issue for potential buyers. Plus, having done the repairs prior to finding your buyer will alleviate a lot of stress when the buyer has their own home inspection.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you understand why pre-listing home inspections are so important and how they can benefit both buyers and sellers. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help with your next home purchase or sale, please contact us today! 949-401-8996

Hire A Certified Orange County Home Inspector

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Orange County Home Inspector

Introduction

When you’re buying a home, it can be difficult to determine if the house is in good condition. This is where an Orange County home inspector comes in. A home inspection allows you to see the structure of the house, inside and out. If there are problems with your new home, they will be revealed during this process.

Orange County Home Inspectors

Orange County Home Inspector
Chris, Certified InterNACHI Inspector

Orange County is home to many home inspectors, but not all of them are created equal. Some are better than others, some are more experienced than others, and some are more thorough than others. You may have heard that you get what you pay for; this is definitely true when it comes to hiring an Orange County home inspector!

It’s important for you as a homeowner or buyer to know what makes one inspector different from another so that you can hire the right person for your job. In California, home inspectors DO NOT need to be licensed!  This means Uncle Jerry could be the home inspector.  Yikes.  However, if you hire a CERTIFIED InterNACHI Professional Home Inspector, you can feel assured the inspector has gone through many classes and passed a final exam as well as been out in the field with a tenured inspector prior to doing an actual home inspection!

What to Expect from a Home Inspection

When you hire a home inspector, you’re getting an expert to evaluate your property from top to bottom. A good inspector will look at everything from the roofing materials to the electrical wiring and plumbing–and everything in between.

A good inspection should take at least 2- 4 hours, but it could take longer if your home is larger, is older than average, if the owners or other people are in the property during the inspection or if there is a lot of clutter impeding the inspection of critical areas. At the end of the inspection, the home inspector will review with the buyers and their agent a summary of their findings. Usually, the inspector will walk through the summary and the actual items in question with the buyers so they can see what the issues are. A full home inspection report will be emailed to the home buyer and their agent although the time it takes is up to the actual home inspector but some will provide it within 24 hours. Visit this page or more information on what to expect from a home inspection.

Inspectors generally don’t provide advice on how much repairs should cost unless asked directly by clients; instead they focus on identifying problems so homeowners know what needs attention before purchasing their next property or moving into one currently owned by someone else.

The Process of a Home Inspection

A home inspection is a thorough review of your property. It’s typically conducted by a licensed or certified professional who will evaluate the condition of the home and determine if it meets certain standards for safe living. The process usually includes:

  • A visual inspection of the exterior, interior, mechanical systems and other features of your house or condo
  • Inspection of attic, crawlspace if applicable. Add on inspections such as radon, sewer scope and pool inspections are available at an additional cost

Inspectors may also recommend additional tests such as lead paint testing if they suspect that there might be lead-based paint in your home; termite inspections if you live in an area where termites are common; mold sampling if you have experienced water damage; smoke detector testing if you have any concerns about smoke detectors being operational.

Reviewing the Home Inspection Report with your Inspector

When you are reviewing the report with your inspector, it is important that they will be able to explain the report to you and answer any questions that may arise. A good home inspector should also be able to help you understand what needs to be done in order for them to fix any problems found during the course of their inspection.

A home inspection is an excellent way to see the condition of your home before buying.

A home inspection is an excellent way to see the condition of your home before buying. A trained inspector will examine the property for structural problems, faulty wiring and plumbing, code violations and more. The cost of a home inspection varies depending on where you live but it’s usually around $325-$450 per house.

The benefits of having a professional check out your prospective new home include:

  • Avoiding costly repairs after moving in – There are many hidden costs associated with purchasing a house that can add up quickly if they’re not addressed during the purchase process (i.e., roof damage, non-working furnace/AC). Having someone check out everything before purchase will help ensure that these issues aren’t overlooked later on down the road when they become more expensive fixes than initially anticipated. Making sure nothing was missed during previous inspections – Some buyers may think their houses are in good condition only because previous owners didn’t disclose any problems or defects on their own accord; however this isn’t always true! Inspectors provide unbiased opinions about what needs fixing so there won’t be any surprises down line when things start breaking down unexpectedly.

Conclusion

The home inspection is an excellent way to see the condition of your home before buying. It’s also a good idea to have one done before selling (home maintenance inspection), so that you can make sure everything is up to code and ready for sale. The process of a home inspection can seem complicated at first glance, but once you know what to expect from the inspector and how things work with them, it will be much easier on both parties involved!

For more information on Orange County Home Inspections, call Coastal Property Inspections at 949-396-9595.

Biggest Red Flags During a Home Inspection

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Biggest Red Flags During a Home Inspection
Biggest Red Flags During a Home Inspection

What are the BIGGEST Red Flags During A Home Inspection?

So, you found yourself a home, put in an offer and negotiated the price and terms.  Congratulations!  That is the first step! Now, you send your earnest money deposit to escrow and then schedule your inspections.

Did you know that the inspection phase is one of the steps where most deals fall apart?  You will have a specific timeframe to get your home inspection, termite inspection and any other investigations on the property completed.

It’s recommended that you do not waive your home inspection!  It’s the most sensitive and vital part of your transaction next to getting your loan. Find out what’s included in your home inspection:  Biggest Red Flags During A Home Inspection

While there could be many potential issues with any home, here are a few of the biggest red flags during a home inspection:

Foundation and Drainage

A buyer won’t know how to assess a building’s foundation, and that’s why it’s one of the most important aspects of an inspection. Your home inspector will look closely at any cracks and abnormalities in the foundation.
Easily-fixed foundation or drainage issues generally aren’t reasons to pass on a house, but  if there are piling issues in the foundation, that might be a safety problem, and safety issues are often non-starters.

As for drainage, houses should be mounted higher than the street level, so that there’s a pitch and the water drains properly. We also want to make sure the gutters are pitched correctly, so that water cascades away from the house.”  Sometimes the drain system can be clogged with roots and debris which can cause the property to flood during a rainstorm.

 Mold

Mold sounds scarier than it really is, and is normally associated with water damage, which is common in many houses or apartments. Mold may not be an unusual addition to an inspection report, and can often be remediated.

Failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for micro-organisms, such as viruses, bacteria and mold. For example, someone may have put a wet towel in a closet and it was up against the wall.  If that towel stays wet for a prolonged time, mold on the wall will start to form.  Once the towel is removed, the mold will die as it will no longer be “fed” to keep it alive.  A little water and bleach sprayed on the area will remove the black, dead mold.

For more information visit:  home inspections in Orange County

Coastal Property Inspections is a boutique home inspection company in Orange County, CA, and services Orange County, San Diego County and the surrounding areas.

Please give us a call to book your inspection today!  949-396-9595

 

What Is a Home Inspection

Gas Furnace Inspection By Your Home Inspector

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What You Should Expect On Your Gas Furnace Inspection by Your Home Inspector

Real estate agents and home buyers don’t really want to know every detail about how a furnace works or how to inspect a  gas furnace, but it helps to understand what your home inspector looks at when doing a gas furnace inspection to be able to inform you of the condition. NACHI.ORG sets the standards for each component in the home to be inspected, and the furnace has its own checklist that each certified inspector will utilize.
During your home inspection, the inspector will locate and document where the thermostat is located and if it’s working.
The the home inspector will check these following components and make notes along the way about the condition and information about the furnace. The gas furnace inspection will  include and be written in the home inspection report:
Gas Furnace Inspection
Gas Furnace Inspection

đź”·Basic info: will explain about the furnace, what type, age, location, size, etc

đź”·System Notes: Definition of the type of furnace
đź”·Gas Supply: What type and condition of the gas supply
đź”·Regulator and Control: The gas pressure regulator will be checked if it’s working condition
đź”·Burners: The inspector will make sure the burners are working properly and if they ignite and make notes about the flame
đź”·Heat Exchanger: The exchanger will be inspected for cracks, rust, excess dirt
đź”·Ignition system: This will be check for pilot safety, defective ignition and make notes of this system
đź”·Blower/Motor and Inducer Fan: These will be inspected and condition and recommendations will be noted
đź”·Fan/Limit Switch: This device controls the internal temp of the furnace
đź”·Plenum: The box or portion of the ductwork attached to the furnace. The inspector will make notes of the condition
đź”·Air filters: Will make notes on the type and size and whether it is clean, dirty and needs to be changed
đź”·Ducting: The inspector will check the distribution of air through the vents and make notes
đź”·Wiring: this will be checked and noted
There may be other items of your gas furnace inspection that will need to be noted and inspected but the above items are the most common.
If you would like a copy of the Nachi Furnace Checklist, please message us, text or call.
Call Chris if you have any questions: 949-396-9595

5 Critical Concerns: Home Inspectors OC

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What are the 5 critical differences between home inspectors in Orange County and how to choose the right home inspector for you!

  1. Certified Professional Inspector
    InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector

    MAKE SURE THE HOME INSPECTOR OC IS CERTIFIED:  Here in California, home inspectors do not need to be licensed!  Pretty much anyone can do it and there are no checks and balances.  Make sure your home inspector is a Certified Home Inspector.  For Example:  InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector designation.  The inspector would have had to complete an entire program to get their certification which consists of 300+ hours of training.  It’s pretty in depth with completing courses on each topic, passing tests, passing the final exam and applying that knowledge to actual home inspections. See what is included in a professional home inspection?

  2. IF YOU HIRE A LARGE COMPANY OR FRANCHISE:  Even though you think you are hiring an experienced inspection company with many inspectors, you may get a newbie or an inspector that may not be certified.  Make sure whomever gets assigned to do your inspection is certified and knowledgeable.
  3. Infrared Thermal Imaging
    Infrared Thermal Imaging

    MAKE SURE YOUR INSPECTOR USES CURRENT TECHNOLOGY:  With today’s home inspections, there should be no reason why a moisture issue wasn’t detected during the home inspection.  Every inspector should be using an infrared thermal imaging camera.  No excuses.  Some large companies don’t because they don’t want to invest in the cost of the camera for each inspector. Don’t do it.  You’re not getting a full inspection.

    1. Another tool is a drone.  With our roofs here in CA, it’s not a great idea to actually get up on the roof and inspect it as it may break tiles as well as the inspector will not be able to walk the entire roof to check for defects with the chimney, flashing and gutters.  Every home inspector should have a drone to do a complete roof inspection. Again, franchises and larger companies usually do not include drones for their inspectors.
  4. COMMUNICATION, PATIENCE, AND THE ABILITY TO ARTICULATE TO THE HOME BUYER:  Your home inspector should be answering any questions you have during and after the inspection.  Usually during the inspection, some home inspectors request the home buyer wait until after they are finished with the inspection to ask questions.  The home inspector will have a summary report ready to review with the agent and home buyer and will be able to articulate the issues in a calm, non-alarming manner.  Purchasing a home is a huge deal for people and understanding the condition is super important.  Your home inspector should be able to communicate in a fluid, intelligent, professional manner without making the buyer scared of common issues.
  5. Home Inspection Report
    Home Inspection Report

    THE HOME INSPECTION REPORT IS A CRITICAL COMPONENT TO THE HOME INSPECTION:  It may not sound paramount, but the home inspection report is as critical as the actual home inspection.  Many home inspectors do not provide a professional easy to understand report within a timely manner.  This means the home buyer and their agent will have to painstakingly go through the report and decipher issues on their own and may take hours.  Many reports are incomplete, use poor grammar and lack proper written thought.  You can ask for a Sample Report BEFORE you hire your home inspector to see what you will be receiving after your inspection.  This is highly recommended.  The report should be color coded and in a logical order.  Your home inspector will be able to discuss any questions about the report as well but many inspectors fail to do this in a timely manner do to time constraints or lack of customer service skills.

    1. You purchase transaction is on a “time is of essence” for the home inspection contingency.  This means you have a specific amount of time to inspect the property and respond to the seller with any requested repairs.  A good home inspector in OC will have your report written and emailed to you within 24 hours; however, most inspectors fail to do this.  Writing a great report takes 2-3 hours or more depending on the issues and size of property.  The home inspectors that usually work for franchises or multi-inspector companies are being rushed to pump out more inspections which doesn’t leave time to do the reports timely and with quality.

This article was written by Suzanne Martin, Co-Owner of Coastal Property Inspections in Orange County CA. Home Inspectors OC and the surrounding areas!

If you have any questions about home inspections in Southern California and would like to talk with the Owner and Certified Professional Inspector, Chris Knappett, please call directly at 949-396-9595.