Questions For Your Home Inspector

Questions for your home inspector

Do you want to know the best ways to maintain your investment? If so, read on! I caught up with Ed Pottie from Greener Inspections for some home maintenance tips that will help keep your property looking its best as we head into this warmer weather.

What are 5 things every homeowner should do in the spring (that most people don't do)? 

1. Clean your HRV/air exchanger! This is such an important part of your home, and sadly it seems to be one of the most neglected parts in terms of regular maintenance. Every HRV has filters that should be cleaned multiple times a year. Some filters are reusable, some need to be replaced (it will depend on the manufacturer).  The air quality in your home can be improved quite dramatically with proper maintenance of your heat recovery ventilator. 
   
   
2. Check the caulking around your windows/doors for deterioration.  Our winters can do a number on caulking, and after a few years, you usually need a fresh bead.  This ensures water doesn't sneak into any crevices around your windows/doors.
   
   
3. Clean your gutters.  With all of the spring rain, you want to ensure that your gutters are free and clear of debris, so they can function properly in directing water away from your home.  
   
   
4. Check for any rot on your deck, and replace any boards that show any indications of deterioration.
   
   
5. Check for any gaps or loose areas in your soffits.  Every spring I see this in several homes, and by about April, you see birds flying in and out of these spots.  It doesn't take much of an area for birds to fit in.  

What are some common things homeowners forget about that are found during inspections? 

1. Most people don't go into their attic so things like mould growth, minor water intrusion etc can go unnoticed until they become bigger issues.  I always recommend popping your head into your attic yearly just to make sure there aren't any issues hiding up there!
   
   
2. I'd say another common thing would be general maintenance; whether its annual maintenance on your furnace/boiler, or cleaning your mini split heat pumps for example.  These things often get pushed down our to-do lists, which will usually end up shortening the life span on these items.  

Why should a homeowner do a pre-inspection for their home before listing? 

A pre-inspection is great to do so that you can be aware of any issues that may pop up before a potential buyer does their own inspection. There are also times sellers can use the pre-inspection report as a selling tool.  

If a seller chooses to share their inspection with potential buyers, it may sway the buyer from choosing to do their own inspection.  I like to think that if there is any way to limit "surprises" during the home purchase process, it can only be beneficial for all parties involved!

How often should a homeowner have their home inspected? 

I'd say maybe every 5 years or so.  It always helps to have a fresh set of eyes look at your property for any potential issues.