Did you know that many builders miss little things that can lead to big problems? Chances are they are in a hurry and want to get you in your house as soon as possible. Should you pay for their mistakes even though you just spent thousands? Shouldn’t they be held liable? Of course they should. Get a professional home inspection and have written documentation you can use to address problems with your home prior to purchasing it or before your warranty runs out. It could save you money and headaches in the future.

Some of the more frequent problems are:

• Failure to cover post tension cable ends;
• Improper termination of exhaust vents;
• Exposed conductors;
• Improper clearance of chimneys;
• Improper attic ventilation;
• leaking thermopanes;
• Improper termination of primary condensate drain;
• Faulty GFCI protection devices;
• Improper instillation of framing members;
• Improper grading;
• Improper support of gas lines.

The above represents problems that are found daily. Of course older homes typically have more problems due to the changes they go through as needs of families change.

As homes age families' needs change. Families make changes to their homes by means of the “do it yourselfer”, “shade tree carpenter” or through a professional contractor. Typically problems occur when the “do it yourselfer” or the “shade tree carpenter” get involved. You find problems like double tapping at breakers, over loading circuits, improper termination of DWV piping, improper framing or roofing, etc. It is imperative you know what you’re getting into prior to purchasing your new home.