|
In a recent survey the most
common home problems identified were as follows. It is interesting
to note that four of the top ten problems involved water.
1.
Improper Surface
Grading and Drainage.
By far the
most frequent problem, it is responsible for the most common
household aggravations, including water penetration into the
basement or crawlspace and most basements eventually leak.
2.
Improper Electrical
Wiring
A number of
respondents found this to be a significant defect. This includes
such situations as insufficient electrical service, inadequate
overload protection, and amateur (often dangerous) wiring
connections.
3.
Roof Damage
Ranked
third, leaking roofs are a frequent problem. Old or damaged
shingles or improper flashing and drainage will cause this.
4.
Heating Systems
Defect
items in this category include broken or malfunctioning
controls, blocked chimneys and unsafe exhaust venting.
5.
Poor Overall
Maintenance
A common
problem with a number of homes. Signs of poor maintenance
include cracked, peeling or dirty painted surfaces; crumbling
masonry; makeshift wiring or plumbing; and broken fixtures and
appliances.
6.
Structurally Related
Problems
As a result of problems in
one or more other categories, damage is sustained by such
structural components as foundation walls, floor joists, rafters
and window and door headers.
7.
Plumbing
Though not
ranked as a number one problem, plumbing defects still rank
high. This includes the existence of old or incompatible piping
materials, as well as faulty fixtures.
8.
Exteriors
Flaws in
this category, such as windows, doors and wall surfaces, rarely
have structural significance but may pose discomfort to the
occupants due to water and air penetration. The most common
culprits are inadequate caulking and/or weather-stripping.
9.
Poor Ventilation
In an
effort to save energy, many homeowners have “over sealed” their
homes, resulting in excessive interior moisture. Significant
moisture can lead to rotting and failure of both the structural
and non-structural elements.
10.
Miscellaneous
This
category includes miscellaneous components, Walkways, decks,
patios, bushes and trees.
| 
