This is a sampling of what to expect when  Pedigo Construction, Inc. assesses the condition of a property:

Initial observations are made from the sidewalk and in front of the house of the type of roof covering, taking note of any large trees or shrubs that might affect the foundation of the house. 

Building Exterior
Attention is paid to any settling or noticeable damage that has occurred or which may occur during movement of the structure.  Note is taken of former repairs such as stucco repairs and the filling in of areas around windows, doors, chimneys and fascia boards. The condition of gutters, roof trim, vents and exhaust pipes is checked and note is taken of any holes drilled for electrical or other wiring.  Notice is also given to any water pipes that may protrude through to the exterior of house, as well as any pipe leakage. Close attention is paid to any windows or doors that do not open and close with ease.  The windows and doors are also checked  to determine if they are level and if the gaps at the top are even with those at the bottom.  Attention is paid to the lines between doors, windows and door jambs.  Whether the building is well or poorly maintained; e.g.,  has broken windows or doors, or any gates not working properly is also noted.

Surrounding Area
Sidewalks, passageways, any concrete areas, all patio areas and the grounds in general around the house are checked for large cracks, raising or lowering of certain areas and any negative drainage.

Drainage
Observations are made of the condition of gutters and downspouts and whether they are tied into storm drains or drain away from the building.  The gutters, downspouts and drains are checked for clogging, damage, rusting and overflow.  An evaluation of drainage efficiency is done and consideration is made as to whether or not  a French drain might be required. 

Foundation
Access is made into the crawl space under the building. The type and condition of the foundation and structural supports are examined.  For example, note is taken of the number, size and separation distance of  piers and posts, as well as the absence, presence and/or condition of stem walls, shear walls and cripple walls.  Any visual bowing is recorded, as well as cracks to the foundation.  The need for moisture barriers and rat-proofing is also assessed. A drawing of the property is then made, noting the presence or the absence of mud-sill bolts, any sort of tie-downs, or repairs made to the existing foundation or under-the-house structures. 

Building Interior
The interior of the building is examined for cracks, foundation rolls, portions that are noticeably lower and interior doors and windows that are either hard to open or do not line up.  Floor and wall tiles are checked for cracks.  If there is a fireplace the hearth and interior are checked for noticeable cracks or settlement.  The water-heater and furnace are located and note is taken of anything out of the norm; e.g., not strapped or tied down, pipes disconnected, smell of gas.

A report is prepared for the Client which records the overall condition of the house, and any detached structures, such as garage, office, garden house, greenhouse, covered patio or deck, fences, partition walls, garage overhang, or covered walkway.  Photos are taken and included in the report along with any recommendations for improvements.

If you would like to see a sample report,  please contact us.