Mike's Home Inspector Blog

What I (Should) Never See on a Home Inspection

10/22/2023

When I decided to start our home inspection company, I knew I needed to undergo extensive training. This preparation encompassed both theoretical and field training, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary for the job. However, there was a slight catch. The training modules were designed to cater to both Canadian and American inspectors, which meant there was a broad spectrum of defect recognition training that did not apply to certain areas of North America. Nova Scotia, for instance, has its unique set of housing characteristics that make some issues practically non-existent. Here are a few things I can confidently say I have a better chance of finding a unicorn than seeing in a Nova Scotia house.

"Chinese" Drywall: A Smelly Situation
During the 2000s, there was a drywall shortage in the United States, which led to the importation of drywall from China. Unfortunately, a significant portion of this drywall was found to be defective. The main issue with this type of drywall was that it released sulfur compounds into the air, resulting in a putrid smell akin to rotten eggs. Worse yet, the sulfur reacted with electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems, causing corrosion and premature failure.

Why It Isn't an Issue: While some of this problematic drywall did make its way into Canada, there is no evidence showing its use in Atlantic Canada. The issue was primarily concentrated in the southern United States, mainly due to a shortage following Hurricane Katrina in 2005. On a fascinating note, did you know that the world's largest gypsum mine (which is the main ingredient in drywall) is located right here in Milford, Nova Scotia?

Ventless Heaters: A Dangerous Alternative
Propane and natural gas are efficient and commonly used fuel sources for heating homes. However, they require proper ventilation, which can make it cost-prohibitive or even impossible to install them in some homes. An apparent solution to this problem is to use ventless heaters.

Why It Isn't an Issue: In my professional opinion, ventless heaters, even high-efficiency units, are not safe to use and I would never personally use one. They expel waste gases, including the silent and odorless killer, carbon monoxide. Ultimately my opinion doesn't matter: the use of ventless gas fireplaces is also illegal in Canada, adding to the reasons why you won't encounter them in Nova Scotian homes.

Evaporative Coolers: Not Cool for Our Climate
Also known as swamp coolers, evaporative coolers offer a budget-friendly alternative to traditional air conditioners. They work by cooling the air through water evaporation, with the water absorbing some of the heat. While it might sound like a great idea, these coolers are far from ideal for our region.

Why It Isn't an Issue: Swamp coolers add a significant amount of humidity to the air. Our region already experiences highly humid summers, the only season when you'd need cooling. The additional humidity not only makes the indoor environment uncomfortable but also fosters mould growth throughout the home.

While I can't make definitive statements about these issues never being found in our region, I can confidently assert that if I encounter any of these three items during a home inspection in Nova Scotia, I'd need to take an extremely close look at what I'm seeing. The chances of encountering such issues in Nova Scotia homes are remarkably low, thanks to the unique characteristics of our housing industry and climate.

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House Fires: Causes and Prevention

10/8/2023

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As a home inspector, I understand the paramount importance of fire safety in homes. With this week being Fire Prevention Week across North America, it's the perfect time to emphasize the significance of fire prevention and preparedness. This annual event serves as a reminder that taking proactive steps to prevent fires is crucial in safeguarding your family and property.

Why Fire Prevention Matters
Each year, fire-related incidents claim lives, cause injuries, and result in substantial property damage. Many of these tragedies can be prevented through awareness and action. Fire Prevention Week aims to educate homeowners and renters alike on fire safety practices that can make a world of difference.

A Home Inspection's Role in Fire Prevention
I've seen firsthand how crucial it is for homeowners to ensure their properties are safe from fire hazards. During a home inspection, I assess various elements that contribute to fire safety, including:

Electrical Systems: Ensuring that wiring is in good condition and not overloaded, which can reduce the risk of electrical fires.
Smoke Alarms: Checking that smoke alarms are installed correctly, have not expired, and are strategically placed throughout the home to provide early detection of a fire.
Heating Systems: Evaluating heating systems, including furnaces and fireplaces, to ensure they're well-maintained and free from potential hazards.
Chimneys and Vents: Inspecting chimney and vent systems to ensure proper ventilation and prevent dangerous creosote buildup as well as recommending a WETT certified technician as necessary.
Windows and Doors: Ensuring the home (especially bedrooms) has adequate emergency egress points.

The Two Most Common Causes of House Fires
I have reviewed the data from Halifax Fire and Emergency, and it quickly became clear that the two most common causes of house fires are smoking and electrical issues.

Smoking-Related Fires: Smoking is not only hazardous to your health but can also pose a significant fire risk. Carelessly discarded cigarette butts, ashes, or improperly extinguished smoking materials (especially outside the home) can easily ignite flammable materials, leading to devastating fires. To prevent smoking-related fires, it's essential to use designated smoking areas, never smoke in bed, and ensure cigarette butts are extinguished in proper receptacles.

Electrical Fires: Electrical fires are a hidden danger that can lurk within our homes. Overloaded outlets, faulty wiring, and malfunctioning appliances can all spark electrical fires. To safeguard against these risks, it's crucial to have regular electrical inspections, avoid overloading outlets, and replace damaged cords or equipment promptly. Maintaining a safe electrical system is vital to protect your home from the devastating consequences of electrical fires.

Many electrical fires can be traced to extension cords. These are generally okay for temporary use but are not meant to be used for permanent power. If a home doesn’t have adequate receptacles an electrician can usually help safely add more to a home.

Home inspectors and firefighters both share a common belief that the best way to deal with a disaster at home is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

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