Backdrafting is the reverse flow of gas in the flues of fuel-fired appliances that results in the intrusion of combustion byproducts into the living space. Many fuel-fired water heaters and boilers use household air and lack an induced draft, which makes them especially vulnerable to backdrafting when indoor air pressure becomes unusually low. Inspectors should […]
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Eco-Friendly Relocation
Relocation is often stressful and time-consuming. Rarely do we wonder about the impact the process has on the environment. This is amplified when moving to a smaller house or condominium, and additional decisions have to be made regarding items that must discarded in order to save space. If we don’t make these decisions deliberately, our […]
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House-Moving
House-moving is the process of picking a house up off its foundation and transporting it elsewhere, sometimes many miles away. While it may seem that moving hundreds of tons of fragile building materials is impractical, there are, in fact, many legitimate reasons to relocate a whole house. Reasons to relocate a whole house: To escape […]
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House Numbers
House numbers should be clear enough so that police, the fire department, paramedics, etc., can quickly locate properties in an emergency. House numbers are often the only way that first-responders can identify their intended destinations. A number of jurisdictions have begun enforcing laws through strict fines for homeowners who do not comply with laws that […]
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Home Winterization
Winterization is the process of preparing a home for the harsh conditions of winter. It is usually performed in the fall before snow and excessive cold have arrived. Winterization protects against damage due to bursting water pipes, and from heat loss due to openings in the building envelope. Inspectors should know how winterization works and […]
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The Tiny House Movement
A growing number of homeowners in the U.S. are downsizing to homes smaller than 1,000 square feet, and, in some cases, smaller than 100 square feet. This transition to smaller homes, known as the Small House Movement, is adhered to by people who believe American houses in general are too large, wasteful and energy-inefficient.Small houses […]
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Trampoline Safety and Inspection
While health-promoting and fun, trampolines can also be dangerous when they’re misused or if they’re poorly designed.This trampoline is enclosed and safely placed away from trees, power lines and other overhanging objects Trampoline Facts and Figures The first modern trampoline was constructed in 1936 by University of Iowa gymnasts George Nissen and Larry Griswold. Trampoline-like […]
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The Top 5 Problems with Smart Home Tech and How to Troubleshoot Them
Whether you’re buying a new home or looking at some upgrades for your current living space, the chances are that a few smart home upgrades have crossed your mind as part of the process. It’s easier than ever to build the futuristic smart home of your dreams, and thanks to so many disruptive products in […]
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VA Loan Basics
A VA loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA loans can be very helpful for veterans Like FHA loans, VA loans are backed by the federal government in order to protect lenders against default, an assurance that removes barriers to home buying for prospective homeowners when they […]
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USDA Loans
USDA loans are housing loans that are backed through the Rural Housing Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).The USDA offers competitive loans for borrowers in rural areas Purpose of USDA Home Loans In the wake of the mortgage crisis in 2008 and 2009, lenders have become more cautious, so it’s harder for home […]
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