Most Common Problem Areas

Most people strive to keep their properties well maintained and trouble
free, however we usually find issues with every property we inspect.
Many problems are minor - some are more significant. We have compiled
the following list of the 10 Most Common Property Deficiencies

10: Plumbing issues such as steel piping, aging waste pipes and old hot water
tanks can be the cause of sudden, expensive repairs. During the course of the
inspection a flow test is conducted to simulate a real world scenario of how the
plumbing system handles maximum water flow.

9: Tree limbs and vegetation growth too close to the roof line or building.
Trees, shrubs, vines or any other live growth near or on the building can cause
excessive moisture penetration to the building materials, deposit bio debris on the
roof surface and serve as a direct conduit to the interior for pests. Especially
damaging to flat roofs. Trim tree limbs and vegetation back from the building.
Never allow vines to grow on exterior building materials.

8: Chimney deterioration. Many chimneys are neglected which can cause
mortar gaps, broken brick work and flu damage. If a gas furnace uses the
chimney for exhaust, it should be lined with aluminum. It's important to maintain
the brick work on exterior chimneys. Little by little, repair costs add up. A
qualified mason can provide expert repair and maintenance. The installation of
rain caps will help prevent moisture and pests infiltrating the flues. Have
chimneys cleaned by a reputable chimney sweep.

7: Exterior window frames. It is imperative that exterior window frames be well
maintained. Water infiltration to window cavities will cause significant and costly
damage. If you have wood window frames, make sure that the frames and sills
remain properly sealed with a quality stain or paint. Expect to paint and caulk
window frames every three to five years.

6: Indoor environment. From radon gas to water purity, indoor environmental
issues are more important to our clients then ever. Radon gas is a by-product of
decaying uranium and is found in every building. The EPA reports that indoor air
can be far more polluted than outdoor air. We offer low cost testing for radon
gas, mold spores, allergy testing, lead based paint, water purity and more. Visit
our indoor environmental page for more info.

5: Mold growth. We estimate that 40% of the properties we inspect have some
type of active mold growth. Visit our page on mold growth for more info.

4: Foundation & structure. Modern building practices have eliminated the
potential for many foundation problems. However, the biggest threats to
foundations are age, water, trees and improper additions to original structures.
Significant structural defects typically call for specialized professional involvement
and can make a property prohibitively expensive.

3: Heating & cooling systems. Most buildings are heated and cooled with
forced air systems. These systems have a life span of 20 - 25 years if properly
maintained. These systems are fundamental components to a home or building
and are costly replacement items. Excessive corrosion within the heat exchanger,
improper flue connections, leaking condensation pipes all lead to an unstable
heating/cooling system.

2: Roofing system. We define the roof as a system because so many
components contribute to a properly functioning roof. A typical roof installation
has a life span of 20 years. Applying new material over an existing material
reduces the life span of the top layer by 50% - it's always beneficial to strip the
existing layer before reapplication. Ventilation, drainage, insulation, ice shielding
and flashing play an important part of the overall roof system. Your report will
indicate how all of the roof components contribute to the life span of the current
roof.

1: Water infiltration. Without a doubt, water infiltration is the biggest problem
in homes and buildings. Material damage, mold growth, even mechanical failure
is attributed to water infiltration. Look back over this list, many of the issues have
water directly involved. Check down spouts, do they move rain water at least 5'
from the foundation? Low lying grade areas at the perimeter of the building?
95% of water infiltration issues to a foundation/basement are a direct result of
improper waste water drainage. Glendening Consulting specializes in water
related problems.