Posts by Chris Patterson, CPI
Bootleg Ground Outlets – Common Inspection Defects
Electrical outlets are the unsung heroes of our homes, providing power to our devices and appliances. However, there’s an underlying concern that plagues many households: bootleg ground outlets. Often unnoticed, these outlets pose a significant safety hazard, potentially risking electrical fires and harm to appliances and individuals. Understanding what bootleg ground outlets are, how to…
Read MoreWater Pressure in Your Home – Common Inspection Defects
Water pressure is a critical aspect of any home’s plumbing system, impacting the functionality of fixtures, appliances, and overall comfort. Whether the pressure is too high or too low, it can lead to various issues. In this post, we’ll discuss water pressure requirements, the dangers of high pressure, problems with low pressure, and effective solutions…
Read MoreSolid Strand Aluminum Wiring – Ask The Inspector
Ask The Inspector Blog Series: Question: What is the big concern about Aluminum wiring? – Denise B. Answer: Solid strand aluminum Branch wiring has been linked to a high risk of electrical fires, but regular maintenance or remediation can help reduce this risk. Solid strand aluminum wiring has long been a topic of concern for…
Read MoreFederal Pacific Stab-Lok Electrical Panels – Ask The Inspector
Ask The Inspector Blog Series: Question: Are Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Panels as dangerous as I have read online? – Alan S. Answer: Despite there being no mandate requiring the replacement of these panels and breakers, since there is significant evidence that the breakers pose a safety risk, we recommend that they be replaced by a…
Read MoreTesting AFCI and GFCI Breakers and Outlets – Homeowner 101
Testing AFCI and GFCI Outlets and Breakers GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) and AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) breakers and outlets are two types of electrical safety devices that are designed to protect homeowners from electrical shock and fire. However, these devices can become faulty over time, so it’s important to test them on a…
Read MoreGutters and Downspouts – Common Inspection Defects
Gutters and downspouts are one the most important components in controlling stormwater around your home. Properly installed and functioning gutters and downspouts effectively move water away from the home, preventing it from saturating the perimeter and foundation. Poorly installed and maintained gutters and downspouts can result in water infiltrating the home, resulting in foundation issues,…
Read MoreDishwasher High Loop – Common Inspection Defects
The Dishwasher High Loop Poor dishwasher drain line configuration is a common defect found during an inspection. Thankfully, fixing the dishwasher high loop is typically an easy fix that you can correct in matter of minutes. If you have no earthly idea what the dishwasher high loop is, or why it’s important, your in the…
Read MoreReverse Polarity Outlets – Common Inspection Defects
Reverse Polarity Outlets A common defect found when inspecting the electrical system in a home are reverse polarity outlets. When found, it’s typically a sign of a non-professional repairs completed by a homeowner or an inexperienced handyman. Reverse polarity outlets occur when the hot (black) and neutral (white) wires are flipped. In this situation, the…
Read MoreSell Your Home Faster and Eliminate Surprises With A Pre-Listing Home Inspection
So you want to sell your house and move onto your next dream home? Once you have made the decision to sell your home, there are a lot of moving pieces to navigate. The big question is how difficult is it going to be to get to the closing table, are any issues going to…
Read MoreHome Holiday Safety Tips
The winter holidays are a time for celebration, and that means more cooking, home decorating, entertaining, and an increased risk of fire and accidents. We recommend that you follow these home holiday safety guidelines to help make your holiday season safer and more enjoyable. Holiday Lighting Use caution with holiday decorations and, whenever possible, choose…
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