You don't want a pool on your roof! Flat roofs in BC can be problematic if the drainpipes are not inspected and maintained properly.
A reversed slope on flashing keeps the bottom of wood trim wet causing decay.
Here's an interesting one - they had a pictures hanging on the wall that was in front of this sewer pipe
Spalling concrete caused by rusting rebar.
This is what it looks like under the spalling concrete
A Leaky Condo. Notice the staining around the windows and discolorati...
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Electrical
Home Inspection
Maintenance and Repair
Above, at the electrical panel, for testing the Arc Fault. At right, a typical GFCI you will find in bathrooms and kitchens
Here's a "how to" and testing schedule for you to download and use. Put it by your electrical panel, (tape it to the panel) and use it monthly. Pick a day that's easy to remember, like the first of every month.
For easy reference for testing, click on the image to enlarge, and then print
Electrical fires are one of the most common disasters that can happen to a home....
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Home Inspection
Real Estate
If this is your first home inspection, or you've moved and used home inspectors several times, I hope I have a few newer insights into how to enhance this experience.
It's a stressful thing, making a decision about where you are going to live. You might be raising a family in this neighbourhood, and your kids will grow up here, go to Scouts, make friends, have birthday parties. Or maybe you're downsizing, and you're interested in your home being close to shops, restaurants, the golf course and ...
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It's nice when repeat customers remember you from ten years ago....
The following is from an email (name removed)
You did a home inspection in Surrey for a house being bought by my son, on xxx St probably 10 years ago now. Do you come into Chilliwack? if so I possibly will need an inspection done on a house being bought by my daughter and would prefer your services. Thank you please let me know...
Yes, I work in Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Langley, Surrey, North Delta, White Rock, South Delta, ...
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What a beautiful week in the Lower Mainland! This daylight savings time change has set everyone in a better mood. I feel that people are friendlier, more neighbors are out in the community walking dogs and holding hands, even a few are in their garden already....life is good!
It's looking like real estate sales have really picked up in Greater Vancouver. I've been busy, and I'm sure, if you're a realtor, a home-buyer or seller, you've noticed it too.
If you're a home seller, in this very activ...
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Everyone is a little nervous before a test. It's normal. Your expectations and the final result may not always be the same, whether it's a math final, a driving test, or encountering a home inspector when he visits your home for a home inspection. Here's some preparation tips that will make it easier.
As a home inspector since 1992, I've seen almost every scenario that can make it a little more difficult to do my job. I certainly don't want it to be any more stressful for the homeowner than nec...
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One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is controlling the air quality and humidity in their home. Quite often in older homes, the idea of keeping the secondary or summer fan running all the time is an anathema to owners. Some actually believe it's an unnecessary expense; however by reducing air flow and allowing humidity to increase, they are creating a perfect environment for mold. Newer heating systems are much smarter and have a fan running all the time. I've actually been asked ho...
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