Mike's Home Inspector Blog

When most people hear "home inspection," they immediately think of buying or selling a house. It’s a fair association, given that inspections are often a standard part of real estate transactions. But here's the truth: home inspections are much more versatile and valuable than that. Whether you're a homeowner, a landlord, or even just a curious property investor, a home inspection can be a proactive tool to maintain or enhance your property.
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Let’s dive into why home inspections aren’t just tied to real estate deals and explore the benefits for homeowners outside the buying and selling process.

The Myth: Home Inspections Are Only for Buyers and Sellers
This myth likely stems from the fact that most home inspections occur during the buying process. Buyers want to know what they’re getting into, and sellers sometimes conduct pre-listing inspections to address potential issues in advance. It also doesn’t help that other home inspectors use cliches such as “helping you make an informed buying decision” or “we work for buyers and sellers” and marketing buyers and sellers inspections as if they are any different from each other (they aren't). While these scenarios are common, they don’t define the full scope of what home inspectors do.

Why This Myth Persists
The real estate industry heavily markets home inspections as part of the buying process. Unfortunately, this narrow focus leads many homeowners to think inspections are irrelevant unless a transaction is involved. 

The reality? Home inspections are a vital service for anyone who owns or cares for property. They’re an investment in your home’s longevity and your peace of mind. I have shared with more than one client that I provide valuable information that is relevant long after a deed has changed hands and use a long term, systematic approach.

When Should You Schedule a Home Inspection?
If you’re wondering when to schedule a home inspection, here are some guidelines:

• Every 2-3 Years: A regular inspection keeps you informed about your home’s condition, especially components such as a water heater and air exchanger. We can also alert you of issues down the road to help avoid expensive and inconvenient emergency repairs.
• After Severe Weather Events: Storms, heavy rains, or high winds can cause damage you might not immediately notice, especially to roofs and attics.
• Before Major Upgrades: Understand your home’s current state before investing in large renovations. The bonus is that if walls are opened up, we can better inspect components behind the drywall.
• After Purchasing a Home Without an Inspection: If you skipped an inspection during the buying process, it’s never too late to learn about your property.

I founded Inside Edge because I believe every homeowner deserves to know their property inside and out and desire to empower home occupants to maintain a safe and comfortable home for their family.

Remember, whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, our thorough and unbiased home inspections will be the exact same, and will provide the insights you need to make informed decisions. Contact us today to learn more!

​While it has never been directed at me personally, I have seen countless posts online claiming that using a drone in most of Halifax/Dartmouth is illegal. If you look at the following map one can understand why: all the red/orange is a no-fly zone without special permission and that pretty much covers all of Dartmouth and Peninsular Halifax. Further, it is claimed that to operate a drone like I use, you require a license since it is for commercial purposes. Seems to contradict our policy of always operating within the law, which is why I point out both claims are 100% FALSE. 

So, is this official map just a lie? Not at all! Drones ARE prohibited in these zones, with the important distinction that I (and some other home inspectors) use a Microdrone, which is categorized as a drone under 250 grams. The regulations requiring a license, flight plan, permission to fly in Halifax, etc. do not apply to Microdrones!

Don't take my word for it: this link is directly from Transport Canada and summarizes Microdrone regulations. If you wish to fall asleep quickly you can even look here for the full Aviation Regulations. Since you aren't going to read all that, let me summarize it for you: 

• Microdrones are only prohibited in Class F airspace (near Cow Bay & Magazine Hill) and emergency scenes (such as the recent wildfires in Hammonds Plains & Upper Tantallon).
• You CAN fly near an airport, hospital, bridge, Halifax Harbour, etc. unless special conditions exist. 
• While you can technically do things legally (such as fly near backyards, over crowds, or without any training) that doesn't mean it's a smart or safe idea. 
• While there are basically no prohibitions, that doesn't mean other laws don't apply, such as provincial and municipal regulations (no takeoffs/landings in parks for example). 
• While in the United States you are required to obtain an FAA license (which is the USA's version of Transport Canada) to operate a microdrone for any commercial purposes, this regulation does not apply in Canada. 

The use of a (micro)drone has provided me with some breathtaking shots of the beauty in our province. More than once I have had to stop myself from just wanting to take in the surrounding area during a property inspection. The regulations can basically be summarized in three words: don't be stupid. Fly safe and enjoy these pictures I took over the summer and fall of 2024. 

When to Worry
While many foundation cracks are benign, there are signs that may indicate a more serious issue, and I will usually recommend contacting either a Structural Engineer or Foundation Contractor depending on the situation. Here’s what to watch for:

Widening Cracks: If a crack is growing wider over time, it may suggest a significant problem with the foundation's stability. Unfortunately, a home inspection is a snapshot in time so this is not something I can spot during an inspection. but can provide guidance on what to look for.  

Cracks with Displacement: Cracks that cause noticeable displacement of the foundation or cause doors and windows to stick may indicate structural issues. This is one reason I check all interior doors for proper operation.

​Cracks Accompanied by Other Signs: Other signs such as sagging floors, uneven ceilings, or water intrusion can signal a more serious problem.

These pictures below are three different examples of cracks I considered significant enough to contact a specialist for further evaluation. In reality it is rare that I see anything other than small, vertical cracks. 

What to Do If You Find a Crack

Document the Crack: Take photos and measure the crack to track its size and progression over time. This information can be helpful for professionals assessing the problem.

Monitor the Crack: Keep an eye on the crack and note any changes in width or shape. Regular monitoring will help you determine if the crack is stable or worsening.

Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about the severity of a crack or if it shows signs of worsening, consult a structural engineer or foundation specialist. They can provide a detailed evaluation and recommend appropriate repairs.

​Address Contributing Factors: Ensure that drainage around your home is adequate and that gutters are functioning properly to prevent water damage. Consider soil stabilization or other preventive measures if soil movement is a concern. The best way to solve moisture related damage is to prevent it in the first place. 

Cracks in concrete foundations are a common issue for homeowners, but understanding their types and causes can help you determine their severity and the necessary actions to take. Regular inspection and maintenance are key to ensuring the longevity and stability of your foundation. If you’re ever in doubt about the health of your foundation, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A well-maintained foundation is crucial for a safe and stable home, so stay vigilant and proactive in addressing any potential issues.

When it comes to the structural integrity of your home, the foundation is one of the most critical elements. It supports the entire structure and bears the brunt of environmental stresses and changes. As a home inspector, I frequently encounter concerns about cracks in concrete foundations. Since the overwhelming majority of foundations I inspect are concrete, this is the focus of today's blog post.

These cracks can range from minor cosmetic issues to serious structural problems and understanding them is essential for maintaining the health of your home. 

Types of Concrete Foundation Cracks

Hairline Cracks
These are very thin cracks that typically measure less than 1/16 inch in width. They are often the result of normal settling and shrinkage during the curing process. Hairline cracks are usually not a cause for concern, but it’s a good idea to monitor them over time. I have a statement I frequently make during inspections that goes “Concrete cracks. Period.”

Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks are common in poured concrete foundations. They often occur due to the natural settling and curing of the concrete. These cracks generally do not indicate a serious structural problem but should be inspected to ensure they are not widening. It's a good idea to repair these, but mainly to keep water out.

Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks, especially those that occur near the middle of the wall, can be more concerning. They may suggest that the foundation is experiencing significant pressure from the surrounding soil, which can be caused by poor drainage or soil expansion. Horizontal cracks are more likely to indicate a serious issue and should be evaluated by a professional.
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Diagonal Cracks
Diagonal cracks typically run from one corner of a concrete block to the opposite corner. They often occur due to uneven settlement of the foundation or soil movement. Diagonal cracks can vary in severity and may warrant further investigation.

Common Causes of Foundation Cracks

Settlement: Over time, the soil beneath a foundation can settle or compress, leading to minor cracks. This is a normal part of the foundation's aging process, but significant settlement can lead to more severe issues.

Soil Expansion and Contraction: Soils can expand when wet and contract when dry. This constant movement can exert hydrostatic pressure on the foundation, leading to cracks. Proper drainage (i.e. gutters, downspouts, proper grade) and soil management can help mitigate this issue.

Water Damage: Poor drainage around the foundation can lead to water accumulation, which can erode the soil and cause the foundation to shift. Waterproofing measures and proper grading can help prevent water-related problems.

Temperature Changes: Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause concrete to expand and contract. This is especially an issue here in Nova Scotia, where we experience significant freeze/thaw cycles that can rapidly damage foundations.

Construction Defects: Sometimes, cracks can be attributed to poor construction practices, such as inadequate mixing of concrete or improper reinforcement. These issues are typically more apparent in newly built homes but can also occur in older homes as well. This is another reason why newer homes need inspections too. 

Stay tuned next week for part 2 where we look at when to worry and what to do about it. 

There has been a lot of construction in the Halifax area over the past few years, with many new homes and apartment buildings opening for occupancy this year. With that hopefully comes long overdue opportunities for first time homebuyers in the market. Like any first-time buyer, when we bought our first home it become apparent that the wish list was just that, and many tough decisions had to be made to secure the home we were looking for.

Unicorns Don’t Exist
Despite the fact it is the national animal of Scotland, Unicorns are not real. So is the idea that you will find the perfect home. Let me dispel that myth right now: I have inspected homes of all types, and every single one is them has one thing in common: they aren’t perfect! I recently had a client who was buying an older home which could best be described as a fixer upper: as a home inspector I rightfully pointed out that while the home may not be aesthetically pleasing, the four major systems (roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC) were all in great condition and have been well maintained. These homes are often passed over when with a little TLC they can make a great new home! 

Remember to Use Facts, Not Emotion
I tend to be a bit animated when doing inspections, mainly because I love what I do. There is a surprising amount of subjectivity in a good inspection, which is why I am not worried about an AI takeover anytime soon. Ultimately, however, I am interested in hard facts as much as possible. I always look for

Electrical: Is it grounded? Is the panel properly installed and labelled?
Plumbing: Is the area known for lead pipe? Does the home use modern materials?
Roof: What type of material? Are there any missing shingles or pieces? Any signs of leaks?
HVAC: What type of heating or cooling system? How old is the unit? Is there evidence of proper maintenance?

​One of the biggest challenges as a home inspector is to balance between using past experiences and knowledge to draw from, and understanding that every home is unique. One of the best-looking roofs I ever inspected had an active leak and the worst…. did not. Same with sewer inspections: the best looking sewer line I checked was 50 years old while a 1 year old line had a partial blockage! While it can be a challenge, it is important to evaluate facts and know what your bottom line is. 

While I did not start our home inspection company until 2021 (I wish I would have started years earlier but that’s another blog post!) my interest in homes goes all the way back to my childhood. I used to love helping my father do construction projects and got my first job at a home improvement retailer whose name rhymes with Rent. ​

Tearing Out Walls – Not Just a Simple Sledgehammer
I tend to bemoan that nearly every show seems to want an “open concept” home, where many interior walls are removed. The show makes it look so easy: a few swings of a sledgehammer, a few minutes of cleanup and voila! In reality: 

• Removing drywall is dowright messy. 
• ​That wall may be a load bearing wall and removing it can cause serious and potentially catastrophic damage to a home. This is especially true on the lower level of a home.  
• Plumbing and electrical systems are far more complex than just a few pipes and wires and relocating these lines is not as simple as just redirecting them to another wall. 
• HVAC systems are generally designed for zones (i.e. rooms, walls, etc) and there is a lot of delicate building science involved in their design. 
• Removing waste is both time consuming and expensive.
• If that wall was built before the 90s, chances are it very likely has some amount of Asbestos in it. Mesothelioma, despite being the subject of sleazy late night TV lawyers is no joke!
• Sledgehammers are fun…. for the first three swings.

I am certainly not saying to never ever remove walls: in many cases this may be the best choice. However, don’t think for a second it’s a simple 1-hour job! 

Don’t Forget the Law
It is not required to upgrade your home to modern building codes, however, if you choose to do major renovations any new work completed must meet the latest building codes. In Halifax you can refer to the M-200 bylaw, however, every town and municipality is different so check with local authorities. 

Plumbing, Electrical and HVAC
There is a reason these professions are so expensive to hire and becoming a plumber, electrician or HVAC technician requires extensive field and classroom training: the systems involved are complex, and one mistake can be very costly. While I have done basic plumbing repairs, I always leave the big jobs for the professionals. One small error can lead to major water damage. 

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) systems require careful balancing that even skilled contractors can struggle to get right. Most homes are designed with zones and tearing down walls can cause an HVAC system to become unbalanced and inefficient. 

As for electrical, I consider my knowledge of electrical systems to be my strongest area as a home inspector, but I am not in any way an electrician! I know how to identify most hazards and educate home occupants, but I also know that electrical loads must be carefully balanced in a home between the two 120V service wires and would never attempt to modify the electrical system! 
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As a homeowner, I have increased my skills in doing repairs myself (I recently did successful renovations to the front porch) but I always stop and consider if a project is beyond my skill level. Saving money sounds great until a mistake costs far more than just calling in a professional the first time.

One of the most interesting things about being a home inspector is how there is always something new to learn. As generalists, we simply aren’t experts on everything, and any home inspector who claims to know everything is one to avoid. That doesn’t mean that the desire to learn more isn’t strong!

One term I learned recently is patina. Of course, I already knew it by the more commonly used phrase copper corrosion. This is simply how copper turns from orange/brown to green and contrary to most scary articles online, is rarely a concern. In fact, I recently recommended for the first time in my years of business, an evaluation of excess patina to be investigated by a plumber. Here is the world’s most famous example of patina in action:

When one thinks of the Statue of Liberty in New York City, we all think of the iconic green color. The simple fact is that the green is NOT what the designer had in mind and the picture on the left is what it would have looked like 100 years ago when it was new: the copper has corroded on the surface giving this green color. As the statue has been monitored and maintained for over 100 and has shown no signs of structual compromise, this can be true for copper water supply lines but a 100 year old copper line should definitely be inspected by a qualified plumber!