Inspection Checklist

CHECK YOUR PROPERTY FOR:

1. Poor drainage.
   Improve drainage, by a new system of eaves troughs and downspouts or regrading the lot.

2. Faulty wiring
   Make sure electrical system is not outdated, especially in older homes. Replace problem electrical systems to fit today’s standards of safety.

3. Leaky roof
   Repairing shingles and small amounts of flashing is easy. If the roofing is old, you may need to replace the whole thing.

4. Unsafe heating system
   Repair or replace old furnaces. New furnaces are more energy-efficient and save money down the road. Install carbon monoxide detectors if needed.

5. Poor maintenance
   Fix cracked or peeling paint, crumbling masonry, broken fixtures or shoddy wiring or plumbing. Replace bad wires and pipes professionally.

6. Structural damage
   Check for water seepage into the foundation, floor joist, rafters or window and door headers. Fix problems, then repair or replace any damaged area.

7. Plumbing problems
   Common plumbing defects include old and incompatible piping materials and faulty fixtures or waste lines.

8. House exterior
   Exterior can let in water and air. Check for poor caulking and weather stripping that require relatively simple repairs.

9. Poor ventilation
   Install ventilation fans in every bathroom if there are no windows and regularly open all windows in your home.

10. Environmental hazards
    Lead-based paint (common in homes built before 1978), asbestos, formaldehyde, moulds and contaminated drinking water are common.