Standard of Practice We Follow in Every Home Inspection We Perform
Every week I’m in and out of crawlspaces, attics, and everything in between—and one thing I keep seeing is homeowners brushing off the small stuff. But here’s the truth: those “minor” issues marked as 🚩Notable Concerns? They’re usually just a matter of time before they become major problems.
Here are a few real-world examples from recent inspections and why they’re worth your attention:
What I saw: Dryer vent was disconnected, exhausting warm, moist air straight into the crawlspace.
Why it matters: Moisture builds fast in an enclosed area, feeding fungal growth and warping the wood structure.
What to do: Vent it properly to the exterior—this is a fire and mold risk rolled into one.
What I saw: Small open voids between exterior brick and window frame trim.
Why it matters: That’s an open door for rainwater. Over time, water intrusion damages framing and insulation—and you won’t see it until the drywall stains or the wood rots.
What to do: Seal those gaps with high-quality exterior caulk.
What I saw: Damp soil, minor pooling after a light rain.
Why it matters: Persistent water in a crawlspace isn’t just a nuisance. It invites mold, fungal growth, and termites.
What to do: Fix the grading, extend downspouts, or install a perimeter drain. Waiting on this could mean foundation trouble.
What I saw: Paint failure and soft trim in spots where water had been getting in.
Why it matters: If siding or trim isn’t protected, wood rot spreads quickly—especially in our Georgia humidity.
What to do: Sand, prime, paint, and seal. Do it now or pay a lot more later.
What I saw: Windows with interior condensation between panes or metal push-bars limiting emergency exit.
Why it matters: Fogged windows indicate a failed seal. Egress-restricted windows are a safety hazard—especially in bedrooms.
What to do: Replace fogged windows and make sure sleeping areas meet egress codes.