Steel Rhino Property Inspections
Steel Rhino Property Inspections
Steel Rhino Property Inspections
Steel Rhino Property Inspections
Steel Rhino Property Inspections
Standard Inspections
Standard Inspections

A complete inspection with a written report designed to inform and
educate a buyer about the overall condition of the home.

Move-in Certified Inspections
Move-in Certified Inspections

For Sellers who want to know what is wrong, and gives them the opportunity to repair the home before a Buyers inspector finds problems.

Builder’s Warranty Inspections
Builder’s Warranty Inspections

This is a great tool for homeowners who purchase a "New Home".
This inspection is normally conducted before the builders warranty expires.

Maintenance Inspections
Maintenance Inspections

There are more than 3,000 operating components in a home and they do wear out. This occurs quietly and slowly, simple to overlook.

Commercial Inspections
Commercial Inspections

These inspections are designed for understanding the facility as well as looking out for the safety of anyone that may be entering the premises.

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Articles tagged with: Selling a Home

Mar16

4 Common Causes of Residential Water Damage

Water is one of the most important substances on earth. In fact, all life forms are dependent on it. But with all it’s life-giving benefits, water can also be very destructive. 

Water damage can be devastating. It can cause damage to your personal belongings, on your property, and may even lead to mold problems. Unfortunately, a lot of homeowners find themselves experiencing water damage. 

Here are some of the most common causes of residential water damage, along with some tips on how to prevent it. 

Natural disasters 

Hurricanes, sudden storms and flash floods are the most common causes of water damage. While we have no control over natural disasters, there are some things you can do to minimize its effect. 

If you live in flood-prone areas, we suggest that you seal walls in the basement with waterproofing compounds. Also, construct barriers like floodwalls, beams, and levees to stop water from entering your home. 

Faulty appliances 

No matter how well you maintain and take care of your appliances, they will break down eventually. Dishwashers, water heaters, refrigerators, and washing machines deteriorate over time. Their hoses can weaken and their pipes rust and crack. They are most likely to leak, wreak havoc and overflow. That said, it is best to keep an eye on older appliances, replace worn parts, and maintain them. 

Burst or leaking pipes

Pipes leak or burst over time due to clogs in the line or changes in temperature. Unfortunately, most people don’t give their pipes much thought until something goes wrong. 

Know where the main water supply is so you can easily turn it off in cases of emergency. This will prevent water from flowing through the pipes; hence, preventing further damage. Do this before calling for professional help. 

Clogged gutters and downspouts 

Gutters are designed to direct water away from your home. When it is clogged with leaves and other debris, water builds up in your gutter. Eventually, it may damage your roof and cause roof leaks. Worse, the gutter may separate from the roof and water may start pouring down your home. 

Keeping the gutters clean is of great importance. A lot of homeowners don’t like this task, but this is crucial for the safety and security of your home. 

Mar10

5 Signs Your Home May Have Water Damage

Water damage is a serious and expensive problem to deal with. In most cases, it starts from a very simple problem like a water leak. Since it usually happens out of sight, most homeowners aren’t even aware of it until it’s too late. When left unaddressed, water damage can lead to more serious problems like mold growth and structural problems.

To prevent further problems, we listed down some of the most common problems that may indicate the presence of water damage. Here are some of them. 

Water stains 

If you notice some water stains on the wall, then this is a sign that water has travelled down the wall. This is often caused by a roof leak, leak from an upstairs bathroom or a leaky pipe. Get to the root of the problem and make necessary repairs to prevent further damage. 

Unusually high water bill 

If your water bill has increased significantly for no apparent reason, this can mean that water is being expelled somewhere. Keep an eye on your water usage and estimate how much your water company would usually charge. If your bill doesn’t match with your water usage, odds are your house is bleeding water. 

Musty odor 

Just because you don’t see mold, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Mold has its own smell. If you notice a musty odor in certain areas in your home, this suggests the presence of mold. The smell will usually be the strongest in areas where water damage has occurred. 

Rotting wood 

If you find wooden beams, wooden furniture or any type of wood that is beginning to rot, then you need to check for moisture problems or water damage.  Be on the lookout for any signs of soft or crumbly wood. 

Wood rot can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Remember, wood rot can spread wide and far, so be sure to have it repaired as soon as you discover it. 

Rust 

This is another sign you need to watch out for. Check the bathroom fixtures, pipes under the sink and the water heaters for rusting. Although this doesn’t necessarily indicate the presence of water damage, it is something worth noticing. This can be sign that something sinister is afoot. 

Mar01

Things You Should Know Before Finishing Your Basement

Most people grew up in a house with a basement that is dark, dank, and unfinished. A lot of homeowners have toyed with the idea of finishing their basement at some point, but didn’t push through with it. Most people grew up in a house with a basement that is dark, dank, and unfinished. A lot of homeowners have toyed with the idea of finishing their basement at some point, but didn’t push through with it. 

A finished basement can be a great addition to any home. Not only will it increase the value of your home, you can also enjoy the extra living space. There are some things, however, that you need to know before getting started on this project. Here are some of them. 

Things You Should Know 2

You may need a permit

Most states will require you to acquire a permit before you get started on the renovation, so we suggest that you check with your town or municipality first before you get started with this project. If you fail to acquire the needed permit, you are likely to face some fines, delay in construction or legal action. 

Things You Should Know 3

Be on the lookout for moisture problems 

Basements are notorious for having moisture problems. Since most homeowners don’t spend much time in the basement, many of them aren’t even aware of the problem. To prevent water damage in the future, make sure that the problem is identified and rectified before renovations take place. Sometimes, moisture problems occur even if there is no sign of leak or standing water. 

Things You Should Know 4

Set aside an extra 10-15% 

Your contractor may have given you an estimate, but that doesn’t mean that it’s the final cost. During the remodelling process, you may come across some problems such as termites, wood decaying or faulty wiring that may cause you to blow your budget. The last thing you want is to run out of money halfway through the project. 

Make sure that you set aside an extra 10-15% of your budget for any unforeseen issues that may crop up. 

Things You Should Know 1

Figure out the layout 

An unfinished basement is like a blank canvas. You have the freedom to decide how you’re going to use the space. You may create a bedroom, a bathroom, and a small kitchen if you intend to use it as a rental apartment. You can also opt for an open space if you want to use it as a leisure or entertainment room. Keep in mind, though, that the water heater and the furnace cannot be moved, so you need to work around these areas. 

Feb16

Home Fixes You Must Complete Before Listing Your Home for Sale

If you are looking to make the most money for your home, you need to tackle some issues before listing your home for sale. Leaving repairs for a buyer is not a smart thing to do. Not only will buyers negotiate for a lower price, you may also have a hard time selling your home.

Here are 4 home fixes you must complete before selling your home.

Improve curb appeal 

If you want to sell your home fast and for top dollar, make sure that the property looks good on the outside.

Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see. Often, homebuyers will make a decision about whether or not they are interested in the house by just looking at it from the outside. They are less likely to be interested to see what’s on the inside if the exterior looks messy, unkempt, and disorganized.

Power spray your home’s exterior, repaint the front door and mailbox, plant some flowering plants, and keep the lawn mowed. These are just some of the things you can do to make your home more appealing and inviting.

Paint walls and ceilings 

If you are looking for an easy and inexpensive way to refresh the look of your home, consider painting the walls and ceilings.

Red, pink or blue are great colors, but not everyone will love it. Paint the walls a neutral color to make your house more appealing to the greatest pool of prospective buyers. They need to be able to envision themselves in that house. Potential buyers may have a hard time doing so, especially if they can’t get past the red master bedroom.

Kitchen improvements 

The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house. Today, homeowners don’t just use it for preparing meals. Many of them would use the kitchen to entertain their guests and bond with their family. If you have the budget for a renovation, the kitchen would be a great place to start. 

A spacious kitchen with huge counter space would be much appreciated by potential buyers. Some would even be willing to pay more for a kitchen with updated appliances.

Flooring fixes 

The flooring is one of the first things prospective buyers notice when they enter the house. An old, dingy, and smelly carpet is sure to put off buyers.

Most homes come with wood flooring. Before putting your home on the market, we suggest that you get rid of that old carpet and get that wood floor refinished. Hardwood floor is one of the features buyers are looking for in a home. Not only will it give off a classic and elegant vibe to your home, it will also add value to your property.

Feb09

Things to Consider When Buying a Fixer Upper Home

It’s hard not to be seduced by the charm and character of older homes. This is probably the reason why some people opt for a fixer upper. You’ll be able to purchase an old house with a great character and get it for way below market price. Isn’t that amazing? But sometimes, buying a fixer upper may entail a lot of work, which equates to thousands and thousands of dollars.

If you are considering buying a fixer upper, then this article is for you. Here are 3 things to consider when buying an older house.

Can you afford it?

A fixer upper may be a great way to get into a larger home without having to spend a huge sum of money. If the house is located in a great location, then that’s a bonus. But what people fail to realize is that fixer upper houses tend to be a money pit.

Before you make an offer, we suggest that you get the contractor into the house and do a walk-through. Ask for an estimate as to how much it would cost you to make the house liveable. This way, you can decide if it’s really worth your time and money.

Are you willing to give up your weekends?

Considering the amount of renovations these types of houses require, you may need to sacrifice your weekends and tackle the jobs during your free time.

In some cases, you may even need to live out of a suitcase and move from room to room until everything is done. Attempting a remodelling project may take longer than you think.

Have it inspected

Houses that need a complete makeover can cost more money and headache than buyers realize. Have the property inspected to prevent some serious stress and headaches down the road. Home inspectors will point out some issues that you may not have seen before. It is important that you know what you’re getting into before committing to buy the property.

Feb09

Is Hidden Mold at Home Making You Sick?

Molds are extremely toxic substances. They are a serious concern for your health. Everyone is potentially at risk of mold exposure, regardless of your gender, age, socioeconomic status or geographic region. Children and infants, in particular, are more susceptible to mold exposure. 

All molds

Is Hidden Mold at Home Making You Sick?

have the potential to cause ill health. In fact, it can cause respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, skin rashes and a multitude of other problems. The vast majority of people who are suffering from respiratory problems are not even aware that the problem was due to mold exposure. Even worse, doctors do not often see the correlation, making the treatment difficult. 

Homes often provide many opportunities for mold spores to grow. Aside from the basement, kitchen and bathroom, there can be many hidden sources of mold in your home. This is especially true if you have leaks on your roof or plumbing problems. In this case, mold may start to grow under the carpet, behind the walls and other areas. But what’s interesting is that mold spores may even be hiding in surprising places such as your pillows or Christmas tree. One study revealed that mold spores are released into a room 14 days after a Christmas tree has been put up.  

Are you feeling sick but can’t exactly pinpoint the cause? 

Mold exposure can cause short-term symptoms such as running nose, headache, coughing, watery eyes, and skin rash. 

If you’ve been struggling with these symptoms , but it tends to improve when you leave the house, there’s a good chance that mold infestation could be what’s impacting your health. 

The best way to tell if it’s mold-related is to spend a few nights away from the house to see how you feel. 

How to prevent mold

Molds are everywhere. They proliferate anywhere moisture exists. The key to preventing mold growth is by controlling moisture. Wet floors and carpets, standing water, condensation in bathrooms and windows are just some of the most common causes. 

Even if the water problem happened a long time ago, mold can still grow in your home if the cause of the problem hasn’t been addressed. They hitchhike into your home as water enters through cracks in foundations and walls. Fix leaks and dry the area immediately since mold usually starts to grow within 24 hours. 

Find a reputable pro if you already have mold in your home. Molds are very difficult to destroy. They can even shed substances that causes coughing, sneezing and asthma attacks. Find an experienced company and address the problem before it gets worse. 

Jan11

Tips to Brighten Your Curb Appeal in Winter

Curb appeal comes naturally to many homes during the summer, when the sun is shining brightly and gardens are in bloom. But during the winter, when the ground is covered in snow and everything else has withered, maintaining curb appeal can prove to be a challenge. The problem is that curb appeal is essential when you’re selling your home.

How do you combat this trend when you’re trying to sell your home during the winter? Here are some things you can do to spruce up the exterior of your home in the dreary winter months.

Keep the driveways, pathways, and walkways clear

With snow comes ice, and with ice comes slipping. Keep your driveways, pathways, and walkways clear of ice and snow to ensure that potential buyers or guests can make it into your home without getting injured.

Before you spend time and money improving the looks of your home, focus on safety first. There is no sense in sprucing up your home if people are afraid to walk along the sidewalk.

Outdoor lighting

The days are shorter during the winter time. In most cases, it gets dark even before people get home. Most buyers decide to drive by houses they’re interested in after office hours. If your home looks dark and uninviting, this creates a negative impression among potential buyers.

Outdoor lighting doesn’t just brighten a winter landscape, it also enhances property safety and security. Garage scones and walkway lights will guide guests to your front door.  You may also wrap holiday lights around trees, fountains, and birdbaths to make your home attractive at night.

Fresh paint 

A fresh coat of paint brings vibrancy to the exterior of your home, making it look warm and pleasant during the cold winter month. This is one of the best ways to revitalize the look and feel of your home. It is also a good idea to paint your fence or front door with bold color to brighten the facade and make your home look more inviting.

Tidy lawn

Just because the grass is no longer green, doesn’t mean that you should slack off on curb appeal. Your home’s exterior beauty doesn’t have to fade along with the summer season.

Curb appeal is important year-round. You want your grounds to stay looking neat in winter and show potential buyers that your home has been well cared for. Clear dead leaves off of your lawn and plant some seasonal plants and flowers to keep your yards stunning during the dreary winter months.

Jan07

4 Smart Tips to Make Moving in Winter Easier

Winter is a great time to move. Since most people are out on vacation or busy with holiday get-togethers, you can get great deal with moving companies. However, moving house during the winter is not without challenges. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can make the moving process even more difficult.

Here are 4 smart tips to make your winter move easier.

Keep an eye on the weather 

Winter weather can be unpredictable. Even if the sun has been shining all week long, a blizzard may suddenly pop up just as you’re pulling away in your car.

Check weather reports from time to time and make sure to follow it up until the moving day. Keep tabs on the weather until the movers arrive so you get the latest updates. Anticipate any weather challenges and adapt to them.

Keep the heat on

You might be tempted to have your utilities disconnected prior to moving day, but please resist the urge to do so. On moving day, you’ll be opening and closing the door many times as the movers carry your boxes. This will send cold air into your home. Without the heat, everybody will feel cold and uncomfortable. You’ll want to keep the heat on on moving day.

Protect your belongings 

Some items are especially vulnerable to cold temperatures. Electronics and other cold-sensitive items should be kept indoors for as long as possible and should be transported in a heated vehicle to avoid damage. 

Objects that are made of wood should be insulated during a move. These items can warp when exposed to freezing temperatures. Books and other documents will also need additional care. Place them in waterproof bins and make sure that they are sealed tight before they get loaded onto the moving truck.

Clear snow 

We understand that you have a lot on your plate right now, but make sure that you shovel snow prior to moving day. 

Snow and ice can be slippery. Clear the snow to prevent anyone from getting hurt. You may also spread rock salt on the ground to slow down the re-icing process. If snow is falling, we suggest that you mix calcium chloride with the rock salt. This will make snow and ice melt faster.

Dec07

3 Major Holiday Hazards and How to Avoid Them

The holiday season is supposed to be joyful time of year. It should be about relaxing and sharing good times with family and friends. But the sad truth is that more accidents occur during the hThe holiday season is supposed to be joyful time of year.oliday season than any other time of the year. 

Of course, we want to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and a merry holiday season. Please take time to read these tips and pass them along to your family and friends so no one will fall victim to these common holiday dangers. 

Fire

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the incidents of house fires increase by as much as 50% during the holiday season. Many of which are started either by candles or Christmas trees. 

Candles are a classic way to add a joyous mood to your home. They may look pretty and smell nice, but they are potential fire hazards and may burn down your house if you’re not careful. 

Never leave a candle unattended. This may seem like a no-brainer, but a lot of people seem to forget just how dangerous candles can be. Be sure to extinguish the candle before going to bed or leaving the house. Never burn a candle near books, carpets, beddings, drapes, furniture or anything that can catch fire. Remember, every fire needs to be treated with caution, including candles. 

Plumbing problem

Plumbing problems may not be life-threatening, but they can cause thousands and thousands of dollars on property damage, which may also lead to a costly repair. 

With the temperatures dropping below freezing during this time of the year, your pipes are at risk freezing, or worse, bursting. The last thing you want to deal with is a flooded house during the holidays. 

To prevent this from happening, we recommend that you disconnect your water hose from your outdoor spigot and bring it inside the house. Also, let cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. This is especially important when the weather outside is very cold. 

Mold

Nothing says Christmas quite like the fresh pine scent of a live Christmas tree. However, they can be a possible source of mold exposure. A new study shows that the molds that thrive in its branches can trigger weeks of suffering for homeowners. 

Just because you or a member of your family has a mold allergy, doesn’t mean that you should give up on your Christmas tree tradition. What you want to do, however, is to have it on display for a maximum 7 days. You can put the tree up on Christmas Eve and then take it down on New Year’s Day. The longer the tree is in your home, the higher the chances of mold to grow. 

Dec02

Do You Know Where Your Home’s Shutoff Valve Is?

Every home that is being built today has shutoff valves that are readily accessible. Knowing where and how to shut off your home’s main water supply is important especially in times of emergency. 

Don’t wait until you have an emergency before locating your shutoff valves. Precious minutes can be lost if you or the plumber has to search for it; thus, causing more damage to your property.

Once you’ve found the valve, mark it with a small yard flag, tag, colorful paint or anything that would make the location obvious. Make sure everybody in your household know where it is and how it works.

Possible locations

I wish I could tell you that every shutoff valve is uniform in location. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Some are located inside; while others are located outside.

 In the crawlspace or basement

If you get freezing temperatures in the winter, the shutoff valve must be located in a warm area inside your house. In this case, you might want to look in the basement or crawlspace, where the waterline enters the home. 

Outside the house

In some homes, the water shutoff valve is located outside – generally in front of your house and near the side property line.  It might be in a concrete or plastic box on the ground. Lift the lid of the box and find the water meter. The valve is usually located next to it. If there are 2 valves, turning off either valve should work.

Near the pressure tank

If you get your water from a well and you don’t have a meter, find where the water pipes enter the house and follow those pipes to the pressure tank. In most cases, the pressure tank can be seen in the basement, in a closet near the water heater or the garage. 

Try a simple test once you’ve located the valve. Shut off the main water valve and check the faucets inside your home. If you can’t turn the valve, don’t force it. 

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