ENG Inspections Inc. Home Inspection Services

Crawlspace Encapsulation - Recently I have come across quite a few encapsulated crawlspaces in older homes with original and plugged perimeter drainage - In most cases it leaves a potential buyer of the property confused. Encapsulation is the process of sealing the crawl space from water ingress and outside air by installing a continuous v***r barrier across the floor/walls and insulating the space. Typically there be will pump station and dehumidifier installed to help with the water ingress.

Here are my thoughts on encapsulation, it’s always best to try and prevent water from entering the crawlspace with maintenance or replacement of the perimeter drianage system. Unfortunately perimeter drainage is typically the most expensive component to replace on a home and many people will decline this option. Also remember any significant structural repairs requires an engineer and plumbing/electrical alterations to a home requires permits, not having this documentation can make it more difficult to sell your home 🏡💸

Sometimes I like to try and compare homes to vehicles and they do actually relate - Quite often during a home inspection end of service life components come up and people almost always say…. It’s still working why should it be replaced?

Here is my answer….

Any component or part that has lasted 30 years or more has had a pretty good run, there’s very few “lifetime” components of a home. Most components last about 20 to 25 years, plastic parts begins to deteriorate at around 20 years or less and interior renovations are typically recommended every 15 to 20 years. Don’t even get me started on appliances, you’ll be lucky just to get 5 years out them. (My 3 year old dishwasher that has been repaired once is still broken)

Many times I come across a “fully renovated home” with an electrical panel that’s old and due for replacement which has rather important safety components. Also people quite often will choose to continue repairing a component when in reality complete replacement is more economical and safer.

Think about what you own right now that is over 30 years old that hasn’t been repaired or completely replaced - There wont be many items. Took the old work truck to a local inspection today, no air conditioning because it’s broken which has been replaced at least once over 30 years. This old truck has had almost every component replaced multiple times except for the powertrain which in reality is due to be replaced 🏡🛻💸

What does the inspection include?

This question is often asked when people call for more information or a quote on an inspection and it’s actually quite simple.

Everything is included on the inspection and I use all of the tools in my bag to find as much information about the home as possible.

Now all home inspections are a limited visual review of the home but there shouldn’t be an extra charge or no information on components of the home because you need to pay an extra $50 or $100. Many inspectors won’t use thermal imaging or look at the roof if it’s not accessible.

You DON’T want the inspector to leave out items because you chose not to pay extra and definitely be skeptical about a basic fee with packages that offer higher quality service or warranties.

I have never offered any other “type” of inspection and inspectors should be giving as much information as possible with high quality service right from the start - If the inspection fee is significantly less than others quotes, then there is a reason 💸

5 Star Reviews are sincere and honest when you don’t have to ask for them.

SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS - Often during inspections, there are no carbon monoxide alarms present and expired smoke alarms, which is a safety concern that can easily be corrected. Natural gas, propane, oil, and wood-burning appliances that are not operating correctly produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, tasteless, toxic gas that is hazardous to human health. Carbon monoxide alarms should be on each floor and where gas or fuel appliances are present; smoke alarms should be installed inside and outside of sleeping rooms. Alarms can range anywhere from $50 to $100; dual smoke/carbon monoxide alarms are the best option, and upgrading to current standards can be a significant expense with hardwired, interconnected units.

Nigel Greenidge serves as the sole inspector at ENG
Inspections, exemplifying a steadfast dedication to accuracy, thoroughness, and reliability in all aspects of his work. His meticulous approach ensures that every client receives detailed and essential information necessary to make informed decisions regarding property purchases and investments.
Within the industry, Nigel has earned a reputation for being exceptionally thorough —so much so that he is sometimes described as "too thorough." While this label may seem unfortunate, it ultimately underscores his commitment to maintaining higher standards and consistently placing the needs of his clients first.

Window fall hazards are very common to come across during new construction which are safety concerns and should meet the BC Building code requirements - All guards at windows within dwelling units (when the ground on the other side of the window is more than 1,800mm (70-inches) shall be not less than 900mm (35.4-inches) above the high of the floor.

This guard was an interesting but thoughtful approach found on a recent inspection to meet building code requirements. In some cases 4” limiters can be used, but a home without fire suppression the bedroom windows must remain accessible for egress in the event of an emergency.

Certified & Licensed Since 2016 - Did you know? Home Inspectors in most provinces in Canada are mostly unregulated by the Government mandates meaning there may be no education, training, insurance, and ethical standards.

Website Redesign 💻

https://enginspections.com/