As a home inspector, I often encounter properties that lack essential safety features. One such oversight is the absence of a whole-house surge protector. While this device may seem like a luxury, it’s actually a crucial investment to safeguard your home’s electrical systems and appliances from potentially damaging power surges. What is a Power Surge? […]
A Guide to Home Inspections Understanding the Home Inspection Process A home inspection is a crucial step in the home-buying process. It provides potential buyers with a detailed assessment of the property’s condition, highlighting any potential issues that might affect its value or safety. So, what exactly does a home inspector look for during a […]
Gas appliances: carbon monoxide. All gas-burning appliances have the potential to produce carbon monoxide. This is because carbon monoxide (CO) is a byproduct of incomplete combustion of any fuel, including natural gas, propane, and even gasoline. When a gas appliance functions properly, it burns fuel completely and produces mainly carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor. […]
Conquering Cool: AC Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners Congratulations on your new home! As you settle in, you might be wondering how to keep things nice and cool during the summer months. This is where your air conditioning (AC) unit comes in, and a little TLC (tender loving care) can go a long way in […]
Spring is finally here! As the snow melts and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and tackle some home maintenance tasks. But before you get busy planting flowers, take a moment to consider your roof – the shield that protects your entire home. Here at SJ Inspections and […]
Weep holes in brick work play a crucial role in managing moisture within the wall cavity, and omitting them can lead to significant problems down the line. Here’s why: Importance of Weep Holes: Drainage: Weep holes allow any water that manages to penetrate the brickwork to drain out, preventing it from accumulating within the wall […]
As a seasoned home inspector, my winter inspections take on a unique meaning. While the world admires the picturesque snow-laden roofs, my gaze is trained on the often-overlooked eaves, where a silent threat lurks: ice dams. These seemingly harmless ridges of ice, resembling frozen teeth clamped onto the roof’s edge, are much more than a […]
Home inspectors are required to call out aluminum wiring in older homes because it is a potential fire hazard. Aluminum wiring is more likely to overheat and arc than copper wiring, which can lead to fires. The risk of fire is even higher in homes with aluminum wiring that has been damaged or poorly installed. […]