Why did my home inspection fail?

Why did my home inspection fail?

Do you think that a home inspection is something that just occurs in the many steps towards closing when selling your home?  Did you know there are many simple and relatively inexpensive tasks you can do to prepare for and assist in your home passing its inspection?

The general list below can help you get ready. Taking care of these items can lead to a smoother selling process.

Exterior Items

• Trim all vegetation 12 inches away from siding.
• Keep earth 6 inches below/away from siding, foundation vents (install vent wells as necessary) and all other wood (decks included, if possible) while      maintaining a gentle slope away from the home.
• Check and re-caulk any failed/missing caulking around exterior windows, doors and siding joints.

Roof Structure

• Remove moss from roof. (Avoid pressure washing as this often causes more damage than good. Solutions and instructions can be found at most home improvement centers.)
• Extend downspouts that drain above ground, 6 feet away from structure ($5-$15 at Home Depot).
• Clean gutters. (Even small amounts of debris can clog downspouts.)
• Keep trees and branches trimmed 6 to 8 feet from roof and off power lines.

Crawl Space

• Be sure all earth is covered with 6mm black vapor barrier with 6-inch overlaps.
• All cellulose debris (loose wood, insulation, cardboard and other debris) large enough to be picked up by a standard garden rake should be removed.
• All foundation vents to crawl space should be open and unobstructed for proper ventilation.

Attic

• Be sure all bathroom exhaust vents are still attached and lead to exterior of the      home.
• Keep insulation clear of soffit vents.

 Furnace

• All types of furnaces should be serviced on an annual      basis.
  (Keep maintenance records.)

Bathrooms

• Correct slow-draining sinks and tubs.
• Check and repair any failed caulk along tub/shower surrounds and at floor joint to reduce water intrusion and subsequent damage.

Completing these minor yet necessary tasks can greatly increase the potential that your home will pass its inspection with flying colors and head smoothly towards closing. So you can get on with your life!

(Information courtesy of Pillar to Post Home Inspection Services. Learn more about Pillar to Post by clicking here, or call Paul North at 360-536-2296)

www.KimberlyGartland.com 253-405-8020