Things To Do Around Your Home to Prepare for Winter

Things To Do Around Your Home to Prepare for Winter

Its Almost Winter It’s fall and winter is fast approaching.  As a building consultant there are a few things I do around my own house that are commonly needed as winter approaches.  While I am sure that I could come up with a much longer list and then my wife...
Plumbing Drain Testing

Plumbing Drain Testing

Drain Testing-What are the Risks? Plumbing drain testing has become a common occurrence when purchasing an older home known or suspected to have been built using cast iron for drain lines.  In older homes in the Houston area, those built before the 70s, cast iron was...
Smoke Detectors – Health and Safety Code Chapter 766

Smoke Detectors – Health and Safety Code Chapter 766

Smoke Detectors and the Seller’s Disclosure While performing an inspection on a residential building (home) the other day my client asked me about the line item in the seller’s disclosure form that asks the seller if smoke detectors in the building are...
Watering Your Foundation – Foundation Watering Systems

Watering Your Foundation – Foundation Watering Systems

Watering your foundation during the hot summer months can reduce the potential your building will experience differential settlement for buildings resting on expansive soils.  For the best results it is recommended that you install a dedicated foundation watering...
City of Houston Approves New Flood Plain Rule

City of Houston Approves New Flood Plain Rule

The Houston City Council has approved a rule that will require homes and business in the City of Houston located within the 100-year floodplain to be built two feet above the 500-year floodplain to mitigate flooding to structures.  This mirrors the requirement passed...