Twelve Most Common Construction Defects
That might trigger a CD case
Construction defects and safety violations are
surprisingly common, not just in older homes, but often in brand new ones.
The following, is a list of common defects likely to appear in a typical
home inspection report:
|
MOST COMMON CONSTRUCTION DEFECTS
(Percentages Based on Barton &
Silverman Report, From California Deptartment of Real Estate)
| Roof Leaks & Defects |
12% |
| Plumbing, Drainage & Other Leaks |
21% |
Building Structure
(Foundation, Walls, Siding,
Floors, Masonry, Decks, Balconies, Earthquake, Roofing, Termites) |
19% |
Infrastructure
(Landscaping, Erosion, Subsidence,
Parking Structures, Roads, Asphalt, Driveways, Lighting, Sewers) |
17% |
Internal Systems
(Electrical, Heating, Security,
Elevators, Solar Panels, Recreation Facilities) |
10% |
Other
(Paint, Stucco, Soundproofing,
Childproofing, Everything Else) |
21% |
|
|
- Roofing defects, caused by aging or improper installation are
likely to be found on most buildings. This does not mean that most
roofs need replacement, but that many are in need of maintenance and
repair.
- Ceiling stains in many homes indicate past or current leaks. The
challenge is to determine if the leak was repaired or will recur
during the next rain. Discovery is not always possible.
- Faulty ground drainage often causes water intrusion beneath
buildings. Such problems can be pervasive, difficult to resolve, and
may cause damage to building components.
- Electrical safety violations, either few or many, are to be found
in the majority of homes. Examples are ungrounded outlets, lack of
shock protection, amateur wiring "improvements," and conditions too
numerous to name.
- Rotted wood is common where components remain wet for long
periods. Exterior locations are trim, eaves, and decks. Problems also
occur at walls and floors in bathrooms.
- Code violations are common where additions and alterations are
built without permits. Sellers often boast that, "We added the garage
without a permit, but it was all done to code." This is a red flag to
most home inspectors.
- Fireplaces and chimneys are often unsafe. Common causes are
amateur installation of hardware and fixtures, exterior rust damage,
or simple failure to call a chimney sweep.
- Water heaters are seldom in total compliance with code
requirements. Violation include inadequate strapping, substandard
overflow piping, unsafe flue conditions, and faulty gas lines.
- Gas furnaces often harbor defects. These range from dirty filters
to faulty combustion; from poor airflow to exhaust hazards; from noisy
operation to inadequate fire clearance. Given the potential for major
consequences, annual servicing by the gas company is recommended.
- Faulty firewalls are common in garages. Violations include, holes,
unprotected attic accesses, doors not fire rated, drywall that is too
thin, and exposed wood framing.
- Minor plumbing defects are commonly found, including loose
toilets, dripping faucets, slow drains, leaking drains, hot water at
the right faucet, and so on.
- Failed seals are routinely found at dual pane windows, resulting
in fogging. This is most common with windows manufacturer during the
1980's.
|