<span class="hide-blog-title">The Inspector</span>By NPI, Inc.https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts7 Places Where Mold Can Hide Inside Your Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1582/7-places-where-mold-can-hide-inside-your-homeCleaning Tips,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 19 Feb 2024 20:31:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">7 PLACES WHERE MOLD CAN HIDE INSIDE YOUR HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 19, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/mold">mold</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/attic">attic</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/garage">garage</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/basement">basement</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/chimney">chimney</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/landscaping">landscaping</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/HVAC">HVAC</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">plumbing</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a></p> <p>Everyone has run into mold from time to time in their bathrooms, in their kitchens, or around leaking appliances. While mold can actually come in many different colors and varieties, the dark fuzzy spots that crop up inside homes are usually easy to take care of without much issue, especially when addressed quickly. However, when left unaddressed, mold can damage and permanently discolor materials that they’ve attached to, as well as negatively impact the health of anyone in the home. In fact, according to healthcare professionals over on Healthline, overexposure to mold can lead to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.healthline.com/health/mold-in-house#complications" target="_blank">infection, lung inflammation, and other symptoms</a>.</p> <p>Mold thrives in dark, moist, and warm environments, which means that issues in certain lesser trafficked areas of the home can easily get out of hand. If you experience any of the following, schedule a mold inspection to find the root of the problem:</p> <ul> <li>Family members develop health issues such as eye irritation, persistent coughs, or asthma flare-ups</li> <li>A damp or musty smell develops in the home</li> <li>Wallpaper or paint begins to warp or bubble</li> <li>Recent flood or leaks are discovered</li> </ul> <p>Homeowners can keep mold at bay by reducing humidity in their homes, maintaining good ventilation, and cleaning spills quickly. In addition, check and clean out these areas to cover some of mold’s best hiding spots inside the home:</p> <ol> <li><strong>Inside Your Attic</strong><br /> One of the most common areas where mold develops in houses is inside attics because they are notoriously dimly lit, poorly ventilated, and prone to excess moisture. The other reason why mold often goes unaddressed in attics is simply because homeowners tend to not spend much time in them, dedicating the area mostly for storage. Roof leaks that commonly spread into attics provide even more access for rain and moisture into the household.<br /> <br /> <em>Learn more about <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-handle-mold-in-your-attic">addressing attic mold</a> right here!</em></li> <br /> <li><strong>In Your Basement</strong><br /> Moving from the very top of the house to the very bottom, basements are actually incredibly similar to attics in that they also provide ideal conditions for mold to flourish. In particular, unfinished basements tend to be dark and dedicated in part to storage, causing plenty of obstructions where pests and mold can survive unnoticed. Poor drainage and landscaping that directs water run-off towards the home’s foundation greatly increases the chance for water intrusion and mold development. Consider adding a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in your basement!<br /> <br /> <em>For more information about <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sodlawn.com/drainage-and-grading-tips-from-a-professional-home-inspector/" target="_blank">drainage and grading</a>, check out this article from our friends at SodLawn!</em></li> <br /> <li><strong>Beneath Your Crawl Space</strong><br /> Homes that have crawl spaces also can see plenty of mold buildup due to these spaces being checked so infrequently and due to easy access for water. Crawl spaces can be difficult to access and maneuver in, so preventing mold to develop here in the first place is certainly the best option! Insulate piping, improve ventilation, and consider investing in a crawl space dehumidifier to reduce moisture and discourage mold development before needing to hire a mold remediation expert.</li> <br /> <li><strong>Underneath Flooring, In Walls, and Above the Ceiling</strong><br /> In the case of mold developing underneath flooring, inside walls, and in ceilings, homeowners should be able to detect a clear odor to help locate the source of the issue. Mold inspectors are equipped with special tools to locate moisture such as thermal detectors and moisture meters, but clear water intrusion issues like in poor landscaping or misdirected downspouts are more likely to tip professionals off to where mold may develop.</li> <br /> <li><strong>Around Your Fireplace and Up Your Chimney</strong><br /> Fireplaces and chimneys can get damp when not in use, and the porous nature of bricks means that when mold takes hold, it can be tough to eradicate. Keeping an eye on a home’s exterior is crucial to ongoing maintenance, so regularly review your roof and chimney for signs of leaks or mold growth to stay ahead of these problems. While mold isn’t a fire hazard, leaky chimneys can also increase flammable creosote buildup.</li> <br /> <li><strong>In Your Garage</strong><br /> Garages are known to get cluttered over time, and as vehicles introduce regular run-off, mold is sure to find its way behind boxes and under shelves. To stay ahead of garage mold, homeowners should sweep and clean regularly, reorganize their storage areas periodically, and remove standing water as quickly as possible (mold growth can begin in less than 48 hours!).</li> <br /> <li><strong>Inside Your Vents and Ductwork</strong><br /> Vents are a serious concern for mold growth because, if spores survive in these areas, they can be easily dispersed throughout the home. Vents and ductwork are tough to clean, so rely on remediation experts to remove the problem, and be sure to identify the cause of the problem. Homeowners should also check the condition of their HVAC units for mold due its similar capability of dispersing spores throughout the home. The good news is that HVAC units are much easier for homeowners to clean on their own with some regular attention.</li> </ol> <p><em>Contact your local NPI home inspector to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">schedule a mold inspection</a>!</em></p> 1582How to Build a Treehouse Without Hurting Your Treehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1580/how-to-build-a-treehouse-without-hurting-your-treeDIY,SafetyMon, 05 Feb 2024 20:25:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO BUILD A TREEHOUSE WITHOUT HURTING YOUR TREE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 5, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/landscaping">landscaping</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a></p> <p>As a kid, there’s nothing like spending the summer hanging out in your own custom-made treehouse, looking out over the neighborhood like you’re on top of the world. Many homeowners have a nostalgic attachment to their own childhood treehouses or miss the treehouse experience they never had.</p> <p>For the ambitious homeowner looking to get their kids to spend some extra time outside or to give themselves a more unique hideaway, a DIY treehouse project can be an exciting endeavor. However, treehouses can have the unintended effect of harming your tree if you don’t take the right precautions. To create a memorable hideaway that doesn’t sacrifice the health of your tree, keep these points in mind.</p> <p><em>Note: Check with your local building authority, HOA, and your neighbors before getting started. Certain areas may require special permits, and it’s always a good idea to talk with your neighbors before building something that might block the view!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pick the Perfect Tree</span><br /> No matter your building practices or your comfort with larger scale projects, the success of a treehouse DIY project lives and dies by whether you’ve identified the right candidate for the foundation. A stable and safe treehouse needs a tree that’s matured, with well-established roots, and a large canopy overhead. The best options are any hardwood tree (oak, maple, or beech, for example).</p> <p>If a particular tree catches your eye, perform an informal check-up to get a better handle on its health. Trees that are in good shape shouldn’t be marred with discoloration or other damaging marks, covered in mushrooms, or losing dead branches frequently. Some pests that weaken otherwise healthy trees can be easily overlooked! Consider consulting a tree doctor or arborist if you’d like to give your tree a clean bill of health before getting started.</p> <p><em>Note: Certain treehouse designs utilize more than one tree, to spread out the expected load. Remember to also consider the view you’ll have when all is said and done - that’s half of the fun of a treehouse!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Build Your House, but Limit the Stress</span><br /> Treehouses can be very custom, or homeowners can draw closely from a design that they’ve purchased. For a treehouse that lasts the test of time, reducing stress on the tree is absolutely crucial - though this means reconsidering some of the classics. For example, ropes, cords, and wires wrapped around a tree branch can actually cut off circulation, which limits the flow of vital nutrients and water. Tire swings may be fun, but installing them in this way can lead to weakened or dead limbs.</p> <p>A tree trunk is extremely important for the overall strength and health of a tree, so try to limit any punctures or holes whenever possible. Treehouse Attachment Bolts (or TABs) are heavier duty hardware designed to handle more of the load and limit damage to tree trunks in the process. Additionally, treehouse designers recommend leaving extra space around branches and tree trunks to allow for natural growth.<em>For kits, hardware, and treehouse plans that limit damage to the tree, check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.treehousesupplies.com/" target="_blank">TreehouseSupplies.com</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Take Precautions, and Keep the Risks in Mind</span><br /> Starting a more advanced DIY project can be exciting, but when it comes to building a treehouse, keep in mind what can go wrong if you cut a few too many corners. Trees, especially large, strong trees, offer tons of benefits for a treehouse. In the summer, the shade doesn’t just provide a cool area to beat the heat, but the coverage also increases your home’s energy efficiency and extends the lifespan of your siding.</p> <p>During storms, trees are excellent windbreakers as well, and as tree roots die, the added organic matter provides great fuel for the rest of your yard’s ecosystem (learn more about the benefits of adding trees to your lawn from experts over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/benefits-of-planting-trees-in-your-yard#:~:text=Cozy%20for%20Winter.-,Trees%20Can%20Help%20Prevent%20or%20Minimize%20Flood%20Damage,on%20the%20soil%20is%20massive." target="_blank">USNews.com</a>). Make sure your treehouse project results in the perfect club house for your kids - not a call to your local tree removal service.</p> <p><em>Did you know that tree roots can cause damage to your main sewer line? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Ask your local NPI inspector</a> about a sewer scope to learn the condition of your key systems!</em></p> 1580Unconventional Ways Your Home Is Signaling That You Have Plumbing Problemshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1579/unconventional-ways-your-home-is-signaling-that-you-have-plumbing-problemsCleaning Tips,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 29 Jan 2024 20:20:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">4 UNCONVENTIONAL WAYS YOUR HOME IS SIGNALING THAT YOU HAVE PLUMBING PROBLEMS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 8, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/mold">mold</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">plumbing</a></p> <p>When discovering that any of your home’s key systems aren’t functioning as they are supposed to, some signs of damage or failure are more obvious than others. With that said, homes constantly signal to their homeowners that issues are cropping up just beneath the surface. Most people, unfortunately, are unaware of these common signs and what they mean.</p> <p>Homes are designed to satisfy a large number of needs in order to function as they should, but one force that architects constantly battle while designing homes is water. Water intrusion can spread rapidly to other home systems, damaging high-ticket appliances and electronics while also potentially leading to health problems for families. Plumbing leaks are certainly a major issue for homeowners, but you may not want to wait for a pipe to burst in order to take action.</p> <p>Instead, keep an eye out for these unconventional signs that your home is having plumbing problems!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Your Lawn is Too Green, Too Thick, and Too Wet</span><br /> It may be surprising for some, but one way to discover plumbing issues within a home is actually through looking at its exterior landscaping. Healthy lawns should grow evenly, but homes can spring leaks in their drainage systems, which leads to discharged water escaping into their lawns. Excess water released along the main drain through a break or through degradation will actually send tons of nutrients that greatly enriche the lawn - but only to a limited area.</p> <p>This leads to uneven thickness, inconsistent color, and in some cases, even pooling water or sunken areas. Property inspectors or plumbing professionals can perform sewer scan inspections that help identify the cause of a break within these lines, as well as an approximate location to determine the extent of damage. Repair or replacement of these buried sewer lines requires excavation of the lawn, so confirming damage and locating the source of the break helps limit cost and duration of these repairs.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Your Wallpaper and Paint are Bubbling or Peeling</span><br /> Wallpaper and paint can peel or bubble for many reasons, including humidity and moisture accumulation. A home’s plumbing system involves an intricate network of piping and supply lines that run throughout the house. This means that sinks, toilets, and showers that have insufficient or eroded caulking can lead to water stains on the ceiling for the floor beneath, and corroded or leaking pipes can cause moisture build-up within the walls.</p> <p>Ceilings and walls can also develop brown flecks of mold due to moisture from plumbing or roofing leaks. Signs of mold can mean a major issue within the walls as well, and considering the possible health repercussions of overexposure to mold, these sorts of leaks should be addressed as quickly as possible. <em>Read more on the dangers of mold from experts over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.healthline.com/health/mold-in-house" target="_blank">Healthline</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. You Find Some New House Guests</span><br /> Few people want to share their spaces with unwanted rodents or insects, but animals endlessly search for shelter and food throughout the year, and if they can gain access into the home, they will take advantage of that opportunity. Broken sewage lines can draw mice and rats to a home, and these critters can have an easier time creating access points into a home if there are areas already weakened by water damage.</p> <p>When setting traps, hiring an exterminator, or otherwise dealing with home invaders, it’s important to correct the source of intrusion so that new guests don’t take their place. Learn more about countering pests <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-avoid-unwelcome-household-pests-before-they-move-in">right here</a>!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Your Wallet Is Getting Lighter</span><br /> Plumbing issues can be identified by knowing where to look and understanding how a home’s systems work overall. However, sometimes a home can have plumbing issues that are tough to spot and difficult to hear. To a homeowner, some plumbing issues can be practically invisible, until they get their water bill.</p> <p>Running toilets, leaky faucets, and appliances that aren’t functioning properly will reduce water efficiency in a home, and leaking pipes can cause a dramatic jump in costs. Homeowners that see a sudden change in their utility bills should take a closer look at all of their appliances and listen for sounds of running water to start to identify the issue.</p> <p><em>At National Property Inspections, our expert property inspectors are trained to seek out any issues with all of a home’s key systems. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Book an inspection</a> with your local NPI home inspector today!</em></p> 1579The 5 Steps for Planning a Home Additionhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1578/the-5-steps-for-planning-a-home-additionCleaning Tips,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 22 Jan 2024 20:16:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">THE 5 STEPS FOR PLANNING A HOME ADDITION</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 22, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/office">office</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/attic">attic</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/basement">basement</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/garage">garage</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/HVAC">HVAC</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a></p> <p>Everyone wants to find their dream home. Sometimes, that dream house might be out of reach because of price or location. Other times, that dream house just doesn’t exist - yet!</p> <p>If your family is expanding beyond their current space, or if changes in your lifestyle require more from your home, the answer may not necessarily be to find a new place to live. Instead, additions are a great way for homeowners to expand their homes into a space that better fits their needs. If you just love your neighborhood or you want to create your dream home without moving, here are the five steps to consider for planning a home addition.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Step 1: Ask Yourself Why You’d Like to Add On to Your Home</span><br /> While there are many great reasons to plan a home addition, the process comes with its fair share of drawbacks. First is the cost, which can vary widely depending on the type of addition and sometimes even approach the original price of the home. Additionally, the process of building a home addition can take a lot of time, some of which will include moving out temporarily or sharing space with building crews throughout the day.</p> <p>If you’re considering an addition because you need more space, maybe finishing your attic or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-remodel-your-basement-on-a-budget">basement</a> would be a better route. Both of these spaces can make great home offices, and a basement can be easily configured into a private apartment for guests or for an additional rental income in the future.</p> <p>Another perfectly valid reason to invest in an addition is to simply improve your quality of life at home. Expand or add a garage for additional parking, build out a sunroom for extra lounging space, or build up an entirely new floor to vastly increase your liveable square footage and increase your ROI. Answering the “why” before you get started can help ensure the addition you imagine will truly satisfy your needs.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Step 2: Determine Your Available Budget</span><br /> Once you have your mind made up, take some time to determine the budget you’re willing to devote to the project. Total costs vary based on the type of addition, the scale and size, and the materials you’re planning to use, so do your due diligence to get an idea of what your desired addition might cost. When possible, compare costs with homes in your area that are around the same age as yours. Depending on your location, some materials may be harder to come by, and during times when supply chain disruptions are frequent, time delays may need to be considered.</p> <p>Some homeowners may have enough money set aside to devote to a home improvement project like a home addition, but for others, consider what kind of loans might be available to you. Remember: costs can change even during the build due to unforeseen complications. When possible, it’s best to have a sizeable buffer in case a project goes considerably over budget.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Step 3: Check with Your Local Building Authority</span><br /> Although you’ll likely check back when your build team is in place, it may be worthwhile to check in with your local build authority to confirm whether your planned addition is even possible. In many areas, building towards the road will have special restrictions, building over important utility access points can lead to major hassle down the line, and zoning laws may dictate how and where additions can be made.</p> <p>Financially, there is also a high likelihood that you will need to purchase permits based on what you discover here. Factoring in as much as possible early on will give you the best opportunity to set a reasonably accurate budget to help you determine whether an addition is for you. Learn more about how zoning laws might affect your home <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-zoning-laws-affect-your-home">right here</a>!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Step 4: Contact a Builder, Contractor, or Architect</span><br /> Finally, when you’re ready to get going it is vitally important to create a home renovation team that you trust. Often, this will mean finding a general contractor who will end up coordinating specialists fit for the job. If possible, prioritize a contractor with previous experience working on home additions - even better if they specialize in your specific type of addition!</p> <p>Finding the right contractor for you can be tough, so don’t hold back on research during this step. Listen to recommendations from friends and family, look up reviews, and find out how long they’ve been working as a contractor. More experience and a good reputation is usually a great way to establish confidence, but consider how well you might work together, too. Building a home addition is a massive collaborative effort, so if your personalities do not mesh, it could lead to some unnecessary bumps in the road down the line.</p> <p>After speaking with a couple contractors, you’ll get bids for your addition, project timelines, and opinions on whether they think your plan is feasible within your budget. If not, now is a time to rethink your options and potentially head back to the drawing board. On the other hand, if you find a contractor that seems like a fit with a great bid, you’re off to the races!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Step 5: Consider Any Oversights</span><br /> Getting started with your addition is exciting, but it’s important to take a moment for last considerations before giving the green light, starting with where you’ll be living during the renovation. Some additions that are minor may allow you and your family to continue living in the home for the entirety of construction, but for some major overhauls, staying with a friend or family member may be the way to go. According to building experts at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thespruce.com/house-addition-deliberation-1821280" target="_blank">The Spruce</a>, new additions can sometimes take months to complete, so opting to rent during this time frame will be another expense to add to your budget.</p> <p>Prior to construction, it may also be smart to order a property inspection to get a lay of your home as it is. A home inspection is the best way to get a summary of a house’s condition and can help homeowners identify urgent repairs before a costly breakdown occurs. With a considerable amount of money dedicated towards a home addition construction, an emergency repair or replacement to the bundle at the same time would be best avoided. Additionally, your inspector can potentially refer you to an electrician or HVAC specialist to advise on whether your current setup will be able to handle the extra space.</p> <p>Lastly, most homeowners who plan an addition will likely want to stick around for a while, so checking in with the neighbors beforehand as a common courtesy is heavily recommended, especially when an addition presses toward their property. Getting those affected to sign-off on the project early on should help make your home addition plan go as smoothly as possible.</p> <p><em>Is a full home addition a bit too extreme at the moment? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-start-a-little-library">Read here</a> for some thoughts on starting a little library in your neighborhood! For your next home inspection, contact <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">your local NPI inspector</a> today.</em></p> 1578States that are Taking the Fight to Radonhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1577/states-that-are-taking-the-fight-to-radonHome Inspection,SafetyMon, 15 Jan 2024 20:09:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">THE STATES TAKING MEASURES TO FIGHT RADON</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 15, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/radon">radon</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/foundation">foundation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">plumbing</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a></p> <p>As declared by the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/what-national-radon-action-month-when-radon-action-week" target="_blank">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency</a>, businesses and government organizations devote their attention every January to increasing public awareness of the very real and often overlooked dangers of radon gas. Per the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/protect-home-radon/index.html#:~:text=Radon%20is%20an%20odorless%2C%20invisible,radon%20can%20cause%20lung%20cancer." target="_blank">CDC</a>, radon is an odorless, colorless gas that finds its way into buildings through the breakdown process of natural materials within the soil. Today, radon is the second leading cause for lung cancer only behind smoking.</p> <p>The good news is that the effects of radon gas can be avoided first through effective testing and then through mitigation. Your family’s health is no joke, so if you haven’t already looked into radon levels in your home, your kids’ school, or your work, let this article be your sign to take action.</p> <p>Officials across the nation are taking notice of the dangers of radon, but most people are unaware of what their state is doing to combat radon, or how their state compares to the national average. The American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists offers a yearly <a class="color-secondary" href="https://aarst.org/report-card/" target="_blank">report card</a>, which dives further into things like whether radon testing professionals need to be credentialed, whether school testing is required, and what percentage of homes in the state are in Zones 2 or 1 (meaning radon testing is advised).</p> <p>Radon professionals advise that there is <strong>no</strong> safe level of radon, and homes found in Zone 3 can still have higher levels of radon than homes found in Zone 1. Regardless of how your state is doing in the battle against radon, don’t leave your home’s levels up to chance! With that said, let’s take a look at radon state by state in 2024:</p> <p><strong>Alabama</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 46% <strong>(#33)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Alabama Public Health is an annual participant in National Radon Action Month, directing residents to test their homes for radon in January. While Zones 1, 2, and 3 are all present in Alabama, counties in northern and central Alabama have the highest potential for dangerous levels of radon in homes. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/radon/index.html" target="_blank">Visit Alabama Public Health’s website</a> for more information.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Alaska</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 36% <strong>(T - #41)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Although registering some of the lower levels of radon in the country, Alaska recognizes the importance of spreading awareness. Since 2021, Alaskan students can enter the annual Alaska Radon Poster Contest to get the word out and motivate homeowners to test. Learn more about 2024’s poster contest and the state of radon in Alaska <a class="color-secondary" href="https://dggs.alaska.gov/hazards/radon.html" target="_blank">by visiting Alaska’s DNR website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Arizona</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 40% <strong>(#39)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Arizona is one of the least regulated states in the US when it comes to radon prevention, though they recommend using an NRPP/AARST certified professional. When scheduling a radon test, ask your contractor about their certifications.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Arkansas</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 44% <strong>(#36)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Radon testing professionals in Arkansas aren’t required to receive national certifications from the NRSB or the NRPP. Arkansas ranks as one of the states with the most instances of lung cancer in the nation. Per the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/health-risk-radon#:~:text=Radon%20is%20the%20number%20one,lung%20cancer%20deaths%20every%20year." target="_blank">EPA</a>, radon exposure greatly increases the chances of lung cancer among smokers and non-smokers. Follow the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/radon-gas" target="_blank">Arkansas Department of Health</a> for any new resources or updates.</li> </ul> <p><strong>California</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 23% <strong>(#45)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> As a reaction to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s multifamily Radon policy adopted on July 1 of 2023, California’s Department of Public Health released a public bulletin regarding their state credential requirements for Radon professionals. Without the proper prerequisites, radon professionals cannot advertise their services in California, so homeowners can respond to promotions with extra confidence. For more information on radon in California, check with the California Department of Conservation’s <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/minerals/mineral-hazards/radon" target="_blank">info page</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Colorado</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 66% <strong>(#15)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications with State Licenses</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> Effective August 7, 2023, Colorado real estate contracts are now required to include warnings about the dangers of radon and the results of previous tests performed on the property. Due to a high amount of uranium in the Rocky Mountains, the chance of high radon exposure is very high within the state. For residents looking to learn more about the 2023 Colorado Senate Bill, Erika Carroll <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.protectenvironmental.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-colorado-senate-bill-23-206/" target="_blank">with Protect Environmental</a> provides a breakdown.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Connecticut</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 58% <strong>(T - #22)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Private Certifications, State Registrations for Mitigation</li> <li>School testing required: Yes, for schools built after 2003<br /> <br /> Though there have been no new regulations or policies directed toward combating in Connecticut between 2023 and 2024, the American Lung Association continues its participation in National Radon Action Month. Read more on <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/radon-in-connecticut-2024" target="_blank">their website</a> to learn about radon in Connecticut.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Delaware</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 45% <strong>(#34)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> For Radon Action Month, Delaware Public Media reports on the importance of testing and mitigation in the state. Correctly, they point out that dangerous levels of radon have been recorded in every state. At this time, while homebuyers are required to be notified on the status of radon in their new homes, the same protections aren’t in place for renters. Learn more about radon in Delaware at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.delawarepublic.org/science-health-tech/2024-01-02/the-american-lung-association-encourages-testing-during-national-radon-action-month" target="_blank">Delaware Public Media</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Florida</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 54% <strong>(T - #27)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: Yes, in designated counties<br /> <br /> This year, Florida participated in the National Radon Poster Contest as part of their Radon Outreach. For more information on participation in the future and to view winning posters from 2024, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/radon/Outreach/poster-contest.html" target="_blank">Florida Health’s website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Georgia</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 56% <strong>(#25)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> While homes in northern Georgia have been found to have dangerous levels of radon more often than in other areas, radon continues to be a serious concern throughout the state. While there were no new regulations or policies employed during 2023 and 2024, the state governor signed a formal proclamation designating January as Radon Action Month in Georgia.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Hawaii</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: <strong>N/A (no tests recorded)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Radiation and radon overall are thought to be more minor concerns in Hawaii due to both a lack of man-made sources, and unique geological features that lead to lower radon levels. With that said, experts are right to point out that dangerous levels of radon appear in every state. To learn about radon in Hawaii, read more from insiders a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.hawaiistar.com/radiation-levels-in-hawaii/" target="_blank">the Hawaii Star</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Idaho</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 68% <strong>(T - #10)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Despite a high percentage of homes in Idaho testing with dangerous levels of radon, Idaho continues to be broadly unregulated. Homeowners looking for radon testing professionals should ask whether they have certifications through NRPP or NRSB to ensure an accurate reading. Learn more about radon in Idaho and about the 2024 Northwest Radon Poster Contest by visiting the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/2024-northwest-radon-poster-contest" target="_blank">Idaho Department of Health & Welfare website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Illinois</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 68% <strong>(T - #10)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Licenses</li> <li>School testing required: School testing is recommended<br /> <br /> Radon is a major concern for homeowners in Illinois. As part of the Illinois Tenant Radon Protection Act which is designed to ensure renters are informed about radon levels in their buildings, new changes in 2024 mean that renters will receive more documentation and notifications about radon at the time of application, before signing their leases, and by request. Read more about this new legislation from experts at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.ksnlaw.com/blog/illinois-tenant-radon-protection-act-2024-impact-illinois-landlords-rental-property-managers/" target="_blank">Kovitz, Shifrin, and Nesbit</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Indiana</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 67% <strong>(T - #12)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications with State Registration</li> <li>School testing required: School testing is recommended<br /> <br /> Since radon is such a problem in Indiana, an ongoing battle to require school testing within the state continued in 2023 with a bill authored by Rep. Mike Andrade. While the bill was not passed in early 2023, the continuing conversation may result in new legislation in 2024. Learn more about radon testing in Indiana with <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.wrtv.com/news/wrtv-investigates/radon-testing-requirement-for-schools-fails-to-pass-indiana-legislature" target="_blank">WRTV’s Kara Kenney</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Iowa</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 78% <strong>(#3)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> As one of the states with the highest levels of radon in the US, Iowa requires state certifications from radon testing and mitigation professionals. While there was no new legislature passed to address radon defense in 2023, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services cite that every county in Iowa is considered high risk for radon. Learn more about radon in Iowa by checking out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://hhs.iowa.gov/public-health/radiological-health/radon" target="_blank">Iowa’s Public Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Kansas</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 61% <strong>(T - #17)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Certifications</li> <li>School testing required :No<br /> <br /> As of October 27, 2023, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment updated their state standards to follow AARST standards. The American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists is one of the two main national regulatory bodies for radon in the US, and professionals that follow their standards should lead to more exact and reliable Radon testing throughout Kansas. For more on radon in Kansas, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1009/Radiation-Right-To-Know" target="_blank">Kansas Public Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Kentucky</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 67% <strong>(T - #12)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications with State Registration</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> While no new legislation was put in place to combat radon in Kentucky in 2023, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services promotes Radon Action Month, a Radon Awareness poster contest, and a video contest. The Kentucky Association of Radon Professionals (KARP) is an additional group active within the state leading the fight against radon through spreading awareness, and promoting professionalism in the testing and mitigation industry. For more information on radon in Kentucky, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dphps/emb/Pages/radon.aspx" target="_blank">Team Kentucky</a> official public health website.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Louisiana</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 7% <strong>(#48, Lowest percentage in the US)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> The state with the lowest percentage of homes found with dangerous levels of radon, Louisiana remains mostly unregulated when it comes to testing and mitigation. With no new radon legislation in 2023, it is important to remember that every home is unique, and the EPA advises that there is no known safe level of radon. For more information on radon in Louisiana, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://deq.louisiana.gov/faq/category/32" target="_blank">Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Maine</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 59% <strong>(T - #19)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Registration</li> <li>School testing required: School testing is recommended<br /> <br /> With most Maine counties registering in Zone 3 (the average home has over 4.0 pCi/L of radon), Maine is one of the more regulated states in the US. There was no new radon-related legislation registered in 2023. For more information on the state of radon in Maine, visit their official public health website at the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/environmental-health/rad/radon/hp-radon.htm" target="_blank">Maine Division of Environmental and Community Health</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Maryland</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 43% <strong>(#37)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> In 2023, Maryland took a major step forward in combating dangerous radon levels by requiring testing in both multifamily and single-family rentals. While this is a big step forward, homeowners should remember that testing professionals aren’t required to be certified to perform radon testing or mitigation. Remember to ask if your radon professional is certified by NRPP or NRSB before scheduling your radon test. Read more on radon in Maryland at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/green/air/radon.html" target="_blank">Maryland’s Department of Environmental Protection</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Massachusetts</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 51% <strong>(#29)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> There’s been no new legislation regarding radon in 2023 in Massachusetts. With no school testing requirements and no credential requirements, homeowners should ensure they hire appropriately trained radon testing professionals for the most accurate results. Visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.mass.gov/info-details/radon-get-the-facts" target="_blank">Massachusetts official public health website</a>for more info on radon in the state.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Michigan</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 54% <strong>(T - #27)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> While there has been no new legislation related to radon in Michigan in 2023, officials continue to spread awareness on the dangers of radon for homeowners. Per a statement from <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/proclamations/2024/01/01/january-2024-radon-action-month" target="_blank">Gov. Gretchen Whitmer</a>, January is Radon Action Month in Michigan. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy recommend testing every two years, since building foundations can develop new cracks as homes settle. Homeowners can purchase test kits themselves through the Michigan public health website, but to avoid user error and to take advantage of more reliable testing equipment, they should contact a radon testing professional. For more information on radon in Michigan, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/materials-management/indoor-radon" target="_blank">Michigan’s official public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Minnesota</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 72% <strong>(T - #7)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Licenses</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Minnesota sees some of the highest levels of radon in the country. Appropriately, professionals follow state licensing requirements, which ensures more standardized, effective testing and mitigation for homeowners. Although no new legislation regarding radon defense was passed in 2023, radon continues to be a concern on the radar of Minnesota lawmakers. For more information on radon in Minnesota, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/air/radon/index.html" target="_blank">Minnesota’s Department of Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Mississippi</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: <strong>N/A (no tests recorded)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> With no credential requirements and limited testing as recorded by AARST’s radon report cards, Mississippi homeowners should take their home’s health into their own hands. Remember, the CDC advises that there is <strong>no</strong> safe level of radon, and hiring a radon testing professional with NRPP or AARST certifications is the best way to know how to act. For more information on radon in Mississippi, visit the official <a class="color-secondary" href="https://msdh.ms.gov/page/44,0,100.html" target="_blank">Mississippi State Department of Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Missouri</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 61% <strong>(T - #17)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Missouri is another state with high radon levels, but limited legislation governing radon professionals or protecting homebuyers. With that said, the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://ephtn.dhss.mo.gov/EPHTN_Data_Portal/radon/index.php" target="_blank"> Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services</a> does offer a comprehensive county by county breakdown of average radon levels. While these should not be used to determine the state of radon in an individual home, this information may be beneficial in determining the urgency of radon testing and mitigation.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Montana</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 71% <strong>(#9)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> With some of the highest concentrations of radon gas in the country, Montana’s Department of Environmental Quality offers resources for residents to easily locate home test kits, and contact mitigation providers. Since Montana does not require specific credentials from radon professionals, be sure to ask if your contractor or inspector is certified. For more information about radon in Montana, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://deq.mt.gov/energy/Programs/radon" target="_blank">official public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Nebraska</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 81% <strong>(#2)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Licenses</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> With some of the most cases of dangerous radon in the US, Nebraska is only edged by one state when it comes to the percentage of homes with moderate to high radon levels. Nebraska’s Cancer Plan is designed to spread awareness, promote radon resistant construction techniques, and educate local health professionals on testing for radon (among other goals). Homeowners in Nebraska should take advantage of their resources in order to reduce the effects of radon for their families. For more info on radon in Nebraska, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Radon.aspx" target="_blank">Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Nevada</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 48% <strong>(#31)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Legislation related to radon is limited in Nevada, and testing and mitigation professionals are not required to be licensed. Dangerous levels of radon are detected in every state. For homeowners looking to stay updated on radon in Nevada, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://dpbh.nv.gov/Reg/Radon/Radon_-_Home/" target="_blank">Nevada’s official public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>New Hampshire</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 59% <strong>(T - #19)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Private Certifications required for Mitigation</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Known as “The Granite State,” radon is a particular concern in New Hampshire due to the high amount of granite found in its environment, which is known to release the colorless, odorless gas into water and into the air. For more information on radon in New Hampshire, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/environmental-health-and-you/radon" target="_blank">New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>New Jersey</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 30% <strong>(#44)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Thanks to regulations adopted in 2022, New Jersey requires certifications for radon testing and mitigation, ensuring standardized, higher quality information and protection for its residents. To stay up to date on the state of radon in New Jersey, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.nj.gov/dep/rpp/radon/" target="_blank">New Jersey’s public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>New Mexico</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 58% <strong>(T - #22)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Due to underlying minerals throughout New Mexico, a high amount of radon gas is present in many residential properties. There are many public awareness efforts and motions to provide access to test kits and quality testing professionals, but the state remains largely unregulated. To learn more about radon in New Mexico, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://nmtracking.doh.nm.gov/environment/air/Radon.html" target="_blank">New Mexico’s Environmental Public Health Tracking website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>New York</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 47% <strong>(#32)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: School testing is recommended<br /> <br /> In 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul proclaimed January as “Radon Awareness Month” in the state of New York. Rightly, their public health website points out the importance of testing and the many routes that radon can enter the home, including cracks in the foundation, loose-fitting pipes, and through drinking water. Learn more about radon in New York at their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/radon/" target="_blank">Department of Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>North Carolina</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 45% <strong>(T - #34)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Governor Roy Cooper proclaimed January National Radon Action month in 2024. Since testers and mitigators still aren’t required to be credentialed in North Carolina, homeowners should seek out NRPP and AARST certified Radon professionals. For more on radon in NC, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/health-service-regulation/north-carolina-radon-program" target="_blank">Department of Health and Human Services website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>North Dakota</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 82% <strong>(#1, Highest percentage in the US)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> As the top state in the US for homes with the most dangerous levels of radon, North Dakotans recognize the importance of testing and mitigation systems when it comes to ensuring a healthy home. Per the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://bismarcktribune.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/north-dakota-getting-1m-for-radon-project/article_e1fdd51a-79a8-11ee-80db-ef624f8aca74.html" target="_blank">Bismarck Tribune</a>, the US Environmental Protection Agency is aloting $1 million dollars to the ND Department of Environmental Quality to better combat these issues. To learn more about how to combat radon in North Dakota, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://deq.nd.gov/wm/radon/" target="_blank">official public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Ohio</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 77% <strong>(#4)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Licenses</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Ohio is one of the states with the most cause for concern regarding radon. In December 2023, the Ohio legislature further revised their safety codes surrounding radon testing and mitigation certifications to ensure professionals follow an appropriate standard throughout the state. For more information on radon in Ohio, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/radon-education-and-licensing-program/about-radon" target="_blank">public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Oklahoma</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 32% <strong>(#43)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> There was no new legislation passed in Oklahoma through 2023. To keep up to date on radon in OK, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.deq.ok.gov/land-protection-division/radiation/radiation-management-radon/" target="_blank">Oklahoma Environmental Quality website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Oregon</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 49% <strong>(#30)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> For residents, the Oregon Health Authority offers free short-term radon test kits to those that qualify for the Oregon Radon Awareness Program. While DIY tests can provide some insights, homeowners should look for certified professionals for an accurate reading of radon in their home. For more information on radon in Oregon, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/HEALTHYNEIGHBORHOODS/RADONGAS/Pages/index.aspx" target="_blank">public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Pennsylvania</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 59% <strong>(T - #19)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, State Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Pennsylvania passed no new legislation for radon in 2023. To keep up to date on radon in PA, follow their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.dep.pa.gov/Business/RadiationProtection/RadonDivision/Pages/default.aspx#.VtnnlOZWv0k" target="_blank">Department of Environmental Protection</a> for more information.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Rhode Island</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 14% <strong>(#47)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications with State Licenses/Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> Although Rhode Island is one of the states with the lowest average incidences of high radon levels in households, their legislature recognizes the present threat of radon for their residents. In 2023, Rhode Island’s Radon Control Program was implemented to help ensure the state's standards for testing and mitigation. To learn more about radon in Rhode Island, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://health.ri.gov/programs/detail.php?pgm_id=28" target="_blank">Department of Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>South Carolina</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 42% <strong>(#38)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> At this time, radon testing and mitigation professionals are not required to be credentialed in the state of South Carolina in order to perform services. To request a free test kit and learn more about radon in South Carolina, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://scdhec.gov/environment/your-home/radon" target="_blank">SC Department of Health and Environmental Control website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>South Dakota</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 76% <strong>(#5)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Despite a high percentage of homes in South Dakota lying within Zones 2 and 1 for high levels of radon, testing and mitigation is unregulated. Order your home’s radon testing with a nationally certified professional for actionable results. Learn more about radon in South Dakota at their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://danr.sd.gov/Environment/AirQuality/Radon/default.aspx" target="_blank">Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Tennessee</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 57% <strong>(#24)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Tennessee saw no new radon defense legislation in 2023. Learn more about radon in TN at the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.tn.gov/environment/sustainability/programs/radon.html" target="_blank">Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Texas</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 20% <strong>(#46)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Although Texas does not require radon professionals to be credentialed, Texas Tech (the body that oversees Texas’ radon program) recommends professionals become nationally certified. To follow news related to radon in Texas, visit <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.depts.ttu.edu/ceweb/radon/" target="_blank">Texas Tech University’s website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Utah</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 67% <strong>(T - #12)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Private Certifications with State Licenses for Mitigation</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Utah saw no new radon legislation in 2023. The Utah Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Management & Radiation Control does oversee the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://deq.utah.gov/waste-management-and-radiation-control/radon-program" target="_blank">Radon Program</a>, which guides residents through testing, and appropriate follow-up actions.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Vermont</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 37% <strong>(#39)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> While there was no new radon legislation in Vermont in 2023, state officials urge residents to get their homes tested for radon, pointing out in particular how dangerous radon gas exposure can be for smokers. Read more about radon in Vermont on their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.healthvermont.gov/environment/tracking/radon" target="_blank">Department of Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Virginia</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 55% <strong>(#26)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> Between October 1 and April 30, Virginia’s radon defense program offers discounted testing kits to residents, though they recommend hiring a trained professional for the best results. Read more on radon in Virginia and support options on the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/radiological-health/indoor-radon-program/testing/" target="_blank">Virginia Department of Health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Washington</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 36% <strong>(T - #41)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> Recognizing the dangers of radon, Washington joins neighboring states in promoting the 2024 Pacific Northwest Radon Poster Contest to spread awareness. The contest is open to students between the ages 9 and 14 in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The Washington State Department of Health reports more on radon within the state on their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/contaminants/radon" target="_blank">official website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>West Virginia</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 63% <strong>(#16)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: Yes, Private Certifications with State Licenses</li> <li>School testing required: Yes<br /> <br /> In 2023, the West Virginia state Hazard Mitigation Plan expanded to include threats related to radon which projects potential growths of dangers to its residents. To learn more about radon in West Virginia, visit their official public health website <a class="color-secondary" href="https://dhhr.wv.gov/News/2024/Pages/West-Virginia-Department-of-Health-Urges-Residents-to-Test-for-Radon-during-National-Radon-Action-Month.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Wisconsin</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 72% <strong>(T - #7)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> In March of 2023, the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families began to require licensed child care providers to test for radon. While radon is a concern throughout the US, Wisconsin is one of the states with the highest rate of dangerous radon levels within homes. For more information on radon in Wisconsin, visit their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/radon/index.htm" target="_blank">official public health website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Wyoming</strong></p> <ul> <li>Percentage of homes in Zones 2 and 1: 74% <strong>(#6)</strong></li> <li>Credentials required: No</li> <li>School testing required: No<br /> <br /> There was no new legislation related to radon passed in Wyoming in 2023. To follow the latest information about radon within the state, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/cancer-and-chronic-disease-prevention-unit/cancer/radon/" target="_blank">Wyoming Department of Health’s website</a>.</li> </ul> <p><em>If you are unaware of the state of radon in your home, contact <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">your local NPI inspector</a> today! When hiring your radon testing professional, ask them if they use a Continuous Radon Monitor (CRM), and resolve to make your home safer and your family healthier in 2024.</em></p> 1577Does Your Home Need To Be Tested for Radon?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1575/does-your-home-need-to-be-tested-for-radonDIY,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 01 Jan 2024 19:24:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">DOES YOUR HOME NEED TO BE TESTED FOR RADON?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 1, 2024 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/radon">radon</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/foundation">foundation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>Every year, people all around the world make resolutions to live a little more productively, pick up a healthier lifestyle, and maybe make smarter choices with their money. While many resolutions revolve around bettering their own lives in some way, most should consider whether they’ve been showing their homes the same amount of care and attention. The unfortunate truth is that many homes carry hazards that owners are completely unaware of, hazards that present a very real and persistent threat to their own health and the health of their families.</p> <p>Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that infiltrates homes through natural processes such as through miniscule cracks in the foundation or through drinking water. Homes everywhere are impacted by radon to a certain extent, but homeowners continue to be mostly unaware of the ever-present danger that this gas poses as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the US. According to the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/health-risk-radon" target="_blank">EPA</a>, radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year, and 2,900 of those deaths were people who never smoked in their lives.</p> <p>January is known as National Radon Action Month, a time to bring awareness to the increased efforts each state is taking to fight radon and to alert unaware homeowners that the time is now to learn the condition of their homes. Although the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cdc.gov/radon/radon-facts.html#:~:text=There%20is%20no%20known%20safe,air%20(pCi%2FL)." target="_blank">CDC</a> rightly advises that there is no safe level of radon, knowing the levels of your home can help you determine what mitigation efforts best fit your needs. Radon testing is essential to ensure a healthy home environment for families, but not all testing is created equal.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Free Charcoal Test Kits</span><br /> One advancement that many states have been making when it comes to radon awareness and defense is the availability of free testing kits. Today, nearly every state offers a program where homeowners can order do-it-yourself test kits that are meant to give a general idea regarding the level of radon within a home. The problem is that these free tests don’t give the full picture, and they can often be misleading regarding the status of radon in a house.</p> <p>Charcoal test kits, which tend to be the free option available in most states, are based on the ability of charcoal to absorb radon gas between a few days and up to a few months, taking advantage of how these materials naturally react to one another. While these tests seem user-friendly and are certainly cost effective, they face a number of hurdles that ultimately make them unhelpful more times than not.</p> <p>For one, while charcoal is meant to absorb radon throughout its test period, radon isn’t the only element known to affect charcoal. The <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8122700/" target="_blank">National Library of Medicine</a> took a deep dive on the subject, placing the effect of humidity, time table, and temperature under consideration as influencing factors for the effectiveness of charcoal as a radon test. Put simply, charcoal test kits can be distorted by natural factors, even in controlled scenarios. With free test kits, results are also affected by inevitable mistakes untrained homeowners may potentially make.</p> <p>The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homeowners order tests through state or nationally certified radon testing professionals for a number of reasons beyond the fact that specially trained contractors have the knowledge to aid a more accurate reading. First, licensed or certified contractors are subject to one of the two recognized radon proficiency programs: the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/find-radon-test-kit-or-measurement-and-mitigation-professional#who" target="_blank">National Radon Proficiency Program</a> (sometimes also known as AARST or the Indoor Environments Association) and the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://nrsb.org/" target="_blank">National Radon Safety Board</a>. Certified professionals perform radon tests that aren’t subject to the same user error probability in DIY home tests.</p> <p>Additionally, certified professionals use labs that are regulated while consumer labs aren’t required to have any certification whatsoever. Radon is a prominent danger in homes throughout the U.S., and although more access is available for testing than ever before, homeowners who want the most accurate reading of radon levels in their home should stick with a certified professional.</p> <p><em>Every NPI home inspector’s goal is to keep their clients informed and confident about the condition of their homes. Find an NPI inspector <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">near you</a> to schedule a Radon test today!</em></p> 1575How to Have a Very Merry Christmas (and Other Holiday Home Safety Tips)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1566/how-to-have-a-very-merry-christmas-and-other-holiday-home-safety-tipsHoliday,Home Maintenance,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 25 Dec 2023 19:19:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS (AND OTHER HOLIDAY HOME SAFETY TIPS)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 25, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a></p> <p>Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all who celebrate!</p> <p>The holiday season is a great opportunity to take some time off from work and enjoy friends and family. While these breaks can certainly have its joyful moments, there’s something about meeting up with friends and family that can lead to an air of chaos. If you’re expecting guests who have a tendency of getting caught in hairy situations, it just might be smart to take a few safety precautions along the way.</p> <p>To ensure a very merry Christmas break, here are a few home safety tips homeowners should keep in mind while weathering the holidays.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Monitor Ice and Snow</span><br /> If you’re expecting a degree of icy or snowy weather throughout the holidays, it may be wise to make some extra efforts to keep your driveway and sidewalks cleared. You may have family members in town who aren’t used to dealing with frosty conditions. Take precautions that no one gets hurt from slipping on unattended patches of ice. With that said, those that may have the impulse of piling on the sidewalk salt or other ice melt solutions should wait and rethink their options.</p> <p>While effective at melting ice, rock salt can also damage shoes and clothing, and its corrosive effects can even damage vehicles as well as your home’s masonry. According to the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/snep/winter-coming-and-it-tons-salt-our-roads" target="_blank">EPA</a>, salt causes roughly five billion dollars worth of damage on an annual basis, and ice melt products can have long-reaching effects on your lawn, extending cracks in the cement and expediting erosion. Take the time to hunt for environmentally-friendly options and then use it sparingly only after shoveling for the best experience.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Anticipate Electrical Overload</span><br /> With more guests in the home than usual, it’s reasonable to expect a bit more power demand. Often, homeowners don’t realize that they’re running near their limitations of single circuit power usage until someone new comes along and plugs in an extra heater, hairdryer, or laptop charger. Rather than deal with the ensuing panic from an outage, realize that overloads are easily correctable with some reconfiguration.</p> <p>Usually outages occur when a single circuit is overloaded, so homeowners can work to utilize their circuits that are under less use by moving new devices into these other parts of the house. If you don’t already have access to your home’s circuit map, it may be useful to create your own and then make a rough calculation to determine where you may be close to exceeding a circuit’s limitation (for more information on how to create a circuit map, check out this guide from experts at the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/preventing-electrical-overloads/" target="_blank">Family Handyman</a>).</p> <p>One final point regarding electrical concerns: keep in mind that if guests bring their pets along for the trip, extra precautions may be needed to tuck cords and Christmas lights away from easy access. Cats and dogs are notorious for letting their curiosity get the better of them. In this case, it may be better to help them avoid a shocking life lesson.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Cook with Ambition (and Prepare a Backup)</span><br /> Family reunions tend to be accompanied by an anticipated feast, and as the host, it’s not out of the ordinary to try new things. Broadening your cooking horizons is a great idea! But for those that are particularly inexperienced in the kitchen, take some time to review a few basic cooking safety tips before diving head first into that new recipe.</p> <p>Start off by confirming that your emergency equipment is working properly (meaning your smoke alarm, fire extinguisher, and first aid kit). Then, make sure you are appropriately attired for the job - that means no dangling necklaces or loose-fitting clothing that could get tangled up in the activity. Finally, most kitchen fires occur simply due to leaving food unattended. Limit distractions and maybe recruit a cooking partner, then have at it (and review some extra cooking safety tips per the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.redcross.org/local/dc-va-md-de/about-us/news-and-events/press-releases/10-Holiday-Cooking-Safety-Tips-from-Red-Cross.html" target="_blank">Red Cross</a>)!</p> <p>As a final note, although fumbling a new recipe and having to pivot to a tried-and-true backup can be disappointing, remember that the main point of the holidays is to enjoy each other’s company. Best of luck!</p> <p><em>From everyone here at National Property Inspections, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!</em></p> 1566How to be a Good Host During the Holidayshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1564/how-to-be-a-good-host-during-the-holidaysCleaning Tips,Holiday,Home Decor,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 11 Dec 2023 19:09:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO BE A GOOD HOST DURING THE HOLIDAYS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 11, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just For Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a></p> <p>Hosting family and friends over the holidays can be a tough task. On one hand, it’s wonderful to reconnect with loved ones, especially those that live far away. On the other hand, getting a busy home in order can feel like an intimidating task after a year of balancing a demanding work schedule along with messy pets, and maybe kids with their own affinity for chaos. In preparation for the holidays, here are a few extra things that you can do to go above and beyond making your out-of-town guests feel welcome!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Check On Your Roof’s Stability</span><br /> One pet peeve that is so common for guests is lack of decent parking. Whatever system that’s worked for your family throughout the rest of the year likely will have to change at least a bit once a new vehicle is introduced. So, unless you’re blessed with a larger-than-average parking situation, consider thinking ahead for some alternatives that allow extra room for guests.</p> <p>The common holiday struggle of juggling cars in the driveway is exactly why some considerate guests may take it upon themselves to use some sorely underutilized parking areas - such as the space on top of your roof. What many fail to realize is roofs are left tragically unused by the majority of homeowners. Their surface area is easily large enough to house the family vehicle, whether you drive a GMC Yukon or a sleigh with eight to nine tiny reindeer.</p> <p>Of course, the one issue with this parking space is that homeowners can be neglectful of their roofs. Between loose shingles and the build up of moss and algae due to moisture, roofs can commonly see their lifespans shortened if certain issues are left unaddressed. This leaves more room for water intrusion and increasingly unstable footholds for roof pedestrians. According to home maintenance professionals over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thisoldhouse.com/foundations/reviews/water-damage-statistics" target="_blank">This Old House</a>, water damage due to a leaky roof is actually one of the most costly issues homeowners face.</p> <p>Checking up on your roof’s condition through <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">a home maintenance inspection</a> with a residential inspection professional, or even conducting a few <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/tips-to-prolong-the-life-of-your-roof-and-your-home">DIY roof maintenance activities</a> on your own may be wise in preparation for your holiday guests.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Ensure Easy Chimney Access</span><br /> When it comes to welcoming your guests into your home, it’s also wise to start off with a good first impression. Entryways and mudrooms have a tendency to gather clutter over time with coats, boots, and bags all vying for their own convenient resting places. Because of this, it’s understandable that these spaces can become blindspots for home organization efforts - but this common issue doesn’t have to become a hurdle during the holiday season!</p> <p>Try to set some time aside to reorganize all of your entryways, find new <em>permanent</em> homes for any clutter or stray items, and consider developing a new system to keep these areas that way in the meantime. We’ve previously discussed the benefits of doing this <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/home-organization-tips-for-back-to-school-season">before the school year</a>, but these concepts can come in handy any time of the year if your home is in need of a bit of a reset!</p> <p>On the subject of cluttered entryways, one route that is almost universally ignored is, of course, the chimney! Climbing down the flue at late hours of the night (while often battling slippery rooftop snow and ice) is tough enough on its own <em>before</em> encountering the dust, soot, and sometimes other obstructions like twigs, bird’s nests, or even living animals. Did you know that neglected chimneys naturally fill up with flammable materials, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys be inspected every year (check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyMZU1FlxWM" target="_blank">their informational video on this subject</a>)?</p> <p>Before the holidays, take some time to clean up all of your entryways and order a chimney inspection! For more information on the importance of chimney maintenance, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/4-things-that-can-go-wrong-with-your-chimney">here are a few things</a> that can go wrong when left ignored for too long.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Consider Some New Home Decor</span><br /> Finally, nothing makes a guest feel welcome quite like some nice, nostalgic, cozy holiday decor. Take some time to hang stockings by the chimney, add lights to your front doorway, and wrap garland around your banister. Or go all out with the holiday decorating traditions your family enjoys! Celebrating the holidays with your guests can look very different from household to household, but those that make the effort to clearly switch things up will have a lot more luck ushering in some yuletide glee.</p> <p>Now concerning snacks, it is safe to assume that your guests will get a little peckish when you’re not around. Allowing them free reign to rummage through your cupboards can feel invasive. Instead, leave out a plate at night (preferably near the chimney) and add your choice of midnight treats (maybe a few sugar cookies and a cup of milk, for example). Ultimately, there’s no exact formula for creating a festive home. But if you’re looking for more ideas and inspiration, here are <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/10-easy-ways-to-create-a-festive-home">a few more options</a> to ensure a very Merry Christmas.</p> <p><em>Still wondering if your home is ready for the rigor of your upcoming winter shindig? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Contact your local NPI Inspector</a> to see how they can help prep your home for the holidays!</em></p> 1564Homeownership Is A Journey. But Are Container Homes the Answer?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1557/homeownership-is-a-journey-but-are-container-homes-the-answerDIY,SafetyMon, 20 Nov 2023 15:24:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOMEOWNERSHIP IS A JOURNEY. BUT ARE CONTAINER HOMES THE ANSWER?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 20, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/windows">windows</a></p> <p>The modern home comes in many strange and striking varieties. From the staple Mid-Century Modern to classical Queen Anne homes, the residential market never stops innovating to fit new tastes. One new trend that’s been turning heads and appealing heavily to DIYers everywhere is known as the <em>container home</em>. In other words, homes constructed fully out of shipping containers. That’s right! Although it may sound strange to those unfamiliar with the concept, many homeowners are using those same steel-based boxes used to transport goods across the ocean as bases for their own prefabricated house, or the start of an ambitious DIY project.</p> <p>So, are container homes just a quirky, trendy home alternative that’ll fade away in a few years, or can these lego houses make a practical impact that lasts? To try and answer that question, let’s take a deeper dive into what makes these homes tick.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is a Container Home?</span><br /> Container homes are a newer trend of homebuilding that seems to be cut from the same cloth as <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/tiny-homes-a-forgotten-fad-or-a-major-movement">tiny homes</a>, appealing to individuals and families who would like to cut down on unnecessary space, while having an incredible amount of input on the construction of their homes. One way that container homes might differ from tiny homes, however, is in their creation.</p> <p>Shipping containers are designed to be extremely durable and weather-resistant to protect the materials within from the wear and tear of oceanic travels. However, due to the costs of shipping an empty container back across the ocean, most companies opt to sell their shipping containers on arrival. The result? Many large, steel containers are available across the United States for fairly low costs (in comparison to the price of a new, traditionally built home).</p> <p>Either privately or through a company that specializes in working with shipping containers, homeowners have been using either one, or multiple shipping containers stacking upon each other to create affordable, unique residential properties after a few adjustments (adding insulation, plumbing systems, doors, windows, etc.).</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Why are People Choosing to Live in Shipping Containers?</span><br /> As mentioned, container homes seem, in part, to appeal to the same sort of people interested in tiny homes. For some, having a more direct involvement in the construction of their home gives them a stronger sense of ownership and satisfaction over their property. For others, the low costs and quick construction are enough of a draw for them to opt into this style.</p> <p>Due to the high availability of shipping containers, some even believe that these homes are a natural answer to the housing crisis that much of the States are facing today (see more on the subject in <a class="color-secondary" href="https://renovated.com/can-shipping-container-homes-ease-the-housing-crisis/#:~:text=Shipping%20container%20homes%20could%20ease%20the%20housing%20crisis.,solve%20a%20current%2Dday%20problem." target="_blank">this article</a> from renovated.com). Container homes don’t just have availability going for them, though! Plenty of people love the style of these modular homes, including the modern vibe. With that said, container homes aren’t without their problems.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What are the Concerns for Container Homes?</span><br /> Many container home advocates point out the red tape that can often be a hurdle for owners looking to DIY or purchase their own shipping container house, and some areas pose unique restrictions that limit these types of properties. Detractors of these properties aren’t just against the look–their structural limitations might be hazardous.</p> <p>Obviously, shipping containers weren’t designed for residential occupancy in mind, so when doors and windows are cut into the steel structure of these containers, they become compromised, requiring new and expensive reinforcements as well as renewed sealing to protect from water intrusion. Other problems arise due to the difficulty of installing insulation and basic appliances. Most shipping containers are limited strictly to around eight feet in height, which creates further limitations for adding necessary home systems.</p> <p>On top of all of this, finding help from contractors becomes more difficult since the best professionals on traditional homes simply aren’t familiar with the nuances of container homes. While these homes have their interesting strengths, the inherent problems seem daunting enough to limit widespread popularity.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Are Container Homes Here to Stay - Or a Passing Trend?</span><br /> Problems with container homes might be resolved in time through creative innovations or new technologies but for now, most seem to think these homes will be limited in their popularity in areas where weather varies more widely, or hits extremes. That isn’t to say that Container homes don’t provide an exciting option in emergency scenarios or as temporary residences. Overall, container homes show how the real estate market is constantly evolving and is inhabited by some of the most creative minds out there!</p> <p><em>For more real estate topics and trends, stick <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog">right here</a>! NPI is the nation’s premier network of home inspection experts. To learn more about how your local home inspector can meet your needs, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">call for a quote</a> today!</em></p> 1557Mountain Home Maintenance Advice According to Home Inspectorshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1556/mountain-home-maintenance-advice-according-to-home-inspectorsHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 13 Nov 2023 15:21:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">MOUNTAIN HOME MAINTENANCE ADVICE ACCORDING TO HOME INSPECTORS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 13, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/landscaping">landscaping</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/mold">mold</a></p> <p>A home inspector’s job is to know everything about what makes a home safe, comfortable, and habitable. Modern advancements mean that families are able to live in new jaw-droppingly beautiful environments, even despite their unique challenges. As people stretch the limitations of a modern home, home inspectors are still there to ensure necessary systems function as they should.</p> <p>When it comes to living in a mountain home, owners have to adapt to their surroundings. Whether you’re a new homeowner acclimating to life a little higher above sea level, or you’re a long-time mountain dweller looking for some tips to keep your home running smoother (and to keep costs down), here are some primary maintenance concerns worth tracking.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Every Home’s Number One Enemy is Water Intrusion</span><br /> In most climates, water management easily tops the list for property concerns due to the wide range of issues it can cause. Between poor water run-off, water intrusion, pooling and standing water, the development of mold, mildew, is a primary concern. In areas that have to deal with rain and snow throughout the year, water management becomes an even more important focus.</p> <p>Homeowners can start by regularly cleaning out their gutters and keeping their downspouts free of debris. This chore can feel like a pain, but the problems that crop up from leaving this undone leads to some of the most costly home maintenance problems. Due to the extreme levels of moisture common in the mountains, homeowners will likely notice more mold developing on their driveways as well. To keep homes looking sharp and reduce destructive rot, pressure washing mold and mildew away and renewing exterior staining should keep durability up and water out.</p> <p>If water seems to be gathering in certain spots of the property, or run-off tends to push near the home, that means trouble! Consult a landscaping specialist for options on how to improve your property’s water management systems. To learn more about how water damage can cause so many problems in your home, look at InterNACHI's informative <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.nachi.org/waterdamage.htm" target="_blank">article</a> on the topic!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pests and Wildlife Will Try to Invade</span><br /> Part of the draw to the mountains may be the majestic creatures that you’ll now get to see on a regular basis. From elk, to bighorn sheep, to mountain owls and eagles, the wildlife alone can make a move to these heights worth the effort. With that said, homeowners who appreciate these animals probably don’t want to run a bed and breakfast for them. With colder temperatures, animals will try to find options for warmth, and if there’s a route for them to access your home, they are sure to take advantage of it.</p> <p>Start by regularly walking the grounds and searching for exterior openings. Mice in particular are known to be able to squeeze themselves through shockingly small cracks, and other animals will burrow or hide in any accessible crevice. Keeping vegetation at a fair distance from any structures should be a good start, and regularly caulking access points like windows and doors can help, too. Not only will this help keep animals outside, this should reduce energy waste and make for a more comfortable living experience.</p> <p>When it comes to wood-destroying organisms like carpenter bees, carpenter ants, or termites, clean up food quickly, watch for signs of damage, and keep contact information for a trusted pest control expert on hand. To learn more about dealing with infestations, read on right <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/spiders-silverfish-and-termites-diy-solutions-for-ridding-your-home-of-infestation">here</a>!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">High Altitudes Bring New Challenges</span><br /> Finally, there’s nothing like waking up in the mountains and admiring that unbeatable sunrise. The sights are certainly beautiful, but did you know that gorgeous view can actually mean trouble for your home? Higher altitudes mean a thinner atmosphere and, unfortunately, more UV damage, which can wear away at siding, roofs, and exterior paint over time.</p> <p><em>Keeping up with the environmental strain that mountain homes suffer takes consistent vigilance and regular repairs, but the effort can certainly be worth it! Consider incorporating an annual home maintenance inspection into your schedule with your local NPI property expert. Home inspectors have the knowledge and experience to catch maintenance issues before they become costly problems. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Reach out</a> for a quote today!</em></p> 1556How to Tell if Your House is Hauntedhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1529/how-to-tell-if-your-house-is-hauntedCleaning Tips,Holiday,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 09 Oct 2023 18:20:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO TELL IF YOUR HOUSE IS HAUNTED</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 9, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/attic">attic</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/basement">basement</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">plumbing</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/appliances">appliances</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>October has officially arrived and, as we march closer and closer to the spookiest day of the year, it’s natural for our minds to focus in on the strange and obscure. If this was your first year in your new home, you may have noticed some of its more interesting quirks or “features.” Some houses seem to groan when the wind hits them just right, others might creak whenever the mood is right. These are just “house noises” that you’re slowly growing accustomed to…right?</p> <p>Many odd occurrences in the home can be explained away with a little bit of investigation, but when attempts at rationality come up short, it can be difficult to brush off the unexplained. As we all know, the Halloween season is best known as one time each year that the barrier between the material world and the spiritual world is its thinnest. In other words, if you have your suspicions that your house just might be haunted, you better figure it out now.</p> <p>To aid you in your investigation, we’ve placed our best paranormal researchers on the job to identify the surefire evidence that proves your house is haunted. Reader beware: only proceed if you want to know the truth about the noise that is coming from your attic.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Truth About Cold Spots</span><br /> It’s a common sight in movies whenever ghosts are near. A shiver is sent down your spine, or a chill in the air suddenly lets you see your breath. Many paranormal enthusiasts believe that these instances are not just Hollywood run amuck, but real evidence of spirits drawing energy from their former homes. If your homes have extreme fluctuations of temperature or unexplained cold pockets within your home, you just might be dealing with a ghost.</p> <p>On the outside chance that ghosts aren’t involved with your home’s heating issues, there are a few home defects that could also influence this issue. Poor insulation, inadequate sealing around doors and windows, and inconsistent filter cleaning can all cause homes to run colder than expected. Keeping a home properly insulated and ventilated is important for anyone wanting to live comfortably, and getting it right can have a major cost-savings benefit as well!</p> <p><em>Read more about how 90% of US homes are under-insulated according to insulation experts over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sealed.com/resources/how-does-insulation-save-energy/" target="_blank">Sealed</a>. For more information on ventilation, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-improve-your-homes-ventilation-and-why-its-important">read on here</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">When You Smell Something…Fishy</span><br /> The spirits that inhabit your home once had their own lives. They cooked their favorite foods, had their own pets, and they may have had their unique habits such as smoking a cigar, or wearing a particular kind of perfume. When moving into a new home, it may be unnerving to discover that strange odors only attributable to former owners seem to be lingering. In these instances, many supernatural researchers believe the spirits of those that have come before might be reaching out.</p> <p>In situations where phantom smells aren’t a result of spectral activity, there is a chance that lingering smells could be resolved from a deep cleaning of your new home! Carpet, paint, and tile floors are just a few things in homes that can hold onto unwanted scents such as cigarette smoke long after previous owners have moved out. Replacing your carpet, picking a fresh coat of paint, and then tackling any inherited appliances should be a top concern for a clean start.</p> <p><em>Note: Did you know that strange smell could be coming from your water? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/whats-that-smell-what-different-odors-in-your-water-mean">Here’s how</a> to take care of any odd scents.</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Flickering Lights and Failing Electronics</span><br /> Flickering lights are a tell-tale sign of ghoulish encounters, whether it’s a spectral prankster at work or the result of a spirit’s presence drawing from a home’s electrical systems. EMF Meters are a standard tool used by ghost hunters and other paranormal investigators to detect any abnormal electromagnetic activity within an area, and many believe that these tools can be used for direct communication with paranormal presences.</p> <p>If you’re looking for any alternative answers to electrical issues, flickering lights can also be caused by things like wire corrosion or loose/poor connections. Electrical issues can be serious fire hazards and should be addressed by a licensed electrician as soon as possible. To get started, an infrared inspection from a licensed home inspector can uncover overheated and overloaded outlets and appliances with ease.</p> <p><em>Learn more about some of <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Inspection-Services/Specialty-Services">NPI’s specialty inspection services here</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Creaks, Groans, and Noises in the Night</span><br /> When sharing space with ghosts, homeowners would probably prefer their ghost to be more of a Casper the friendly ghost-type, rather than a Beetlejuice-Beetlejuice-variety. This is why those first few nights in a new home can be particularly unnerving if unexpected noises start coming from the walls, the basement, or the attic. Are those noises just “the house settling,” or did that creak seem a bit too close to a groan for comfort?</p> <p>Outside from ghouls or goblins, there are many other things that can cause a home to make distracting noises. Materials in homes naturally bloat and compress throughout the year as the weather changes, which can all cause harmless creaking and grumbling. Hissing or humming electrical outlets or piping could mean any number of problems, and suspect gas leaks should be addressed as soon as possible.</p> <p><em>If you haven’t located your water and gas shut-off valves yet, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/maintenance-minutes-how-to-locate-your-valve-shutoffs">now is the time to find them</a>. Leaks can cause compiling damage if not resolved quickly, so it’s important for homeowners to familiarize themselves with their home systems before an emergency occurs.</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">You Can’t Shake the Feeling You’re Being Watched</span><br /> Finally, if after “debunking” what seemed to be a former mountain of evidence that your home is haunted still leaves you feeling unsettled, don’t discount that feeling of being watched. As we all know, ghosts have this frustrating tendency to remain imperceptible to the naked eye. Due to this fact many people claim to notice shadows or movement out of the corner of their eye on occasion, and in other instances they might experience a pesky, disquieting sensation when looking into the darker corners of their home.</p> <p>The truth is that if you feel like you’re being watched, you probably are! Though, it might not be exactly what you were expecting during the Halloween season. Many homes are haunted by rats, bats, spiders, and termites, which often go unnoticed by homeowners until long after inflicting serious damage to many of a house’s key systems. While there are many strategies that homeowners can employ to keep their homes free from <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-avoid-unwelcome-household-pests-before-they-move-in">unwanted guests</a>, it may be wise to have a trusted pest control professional in mind when things get out of hand.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Do You Suspect that Your Home Might be Haunted?</span><br /> Rather than contacting your local vicar, consider starting with a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">home inspection</a> to figure out what makes your house tick!</p> 1529How to Get to Know Your New Neighborshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1536/how-to-get-to-know-your-new-neighborsJust for Fun,SafetyMon, 18 Sep 2023 21:05:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW NEIGHBORS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> September 18, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a></p> <p>The experience of moving into a new home can be like riding a chaotic roller coaster - with all of the anxiety and eventual relief that’s involved with the ordeal. Often, families can be so consumed with making themselves comfortable in their new home that finding comfort in their new neighborhood is an afterthought.</p> <p>Today, many can find it difficult to familiarize themselves with the people that share their block, whether because they might lean toward an introverted personality, or perhaps their hectic lifestyle limits opportunities to invest in new relationships. Regardless of the reasons for these hurdles, new homeowners should realize that their best opportunity to get to know their new environment is when they first move into their homes. If you’re interested in exploring some strategies for making a positive first impression with your new neighbors, you’re in the right place!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Benefits of Knowing Your Neighbors</span><br /> Based on some of the latest <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2019/08/15/facts-about-neighbors-in-u-s/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=sendto_newslettertest&stream=top#_ga=2.70495952.172928199.1694622116-849530539.1694622116" target="_blank">Pew research polls</a>, a lack of familiarity with one’s neighbors is trending up. While only 4% of Americans ages 65 and up report not knowing any of their neighbors, this number grows to 7% for ages 50-64, 15% for ages 30-49, and a whopping 23% for Americans ages 18-29. Since all indications point towards this trend picking up rather than slowing down, it seems that people are either having trouble getting to know their neighbors, or people aren’t seeing the value in investing in that relationship.</p> <p>The truth is that homeowners miss out on a great deal by staying distant from their neighbors. Since it can take a very long time to truly feel comfortable and at peace in a new home, building a relationship with the people next door and down the road is an excellent idea for anyone who wants to feel welcome and increase their familiarity with the area. Neighbors can share recommendations on nearby restaurants, interesting activities and businesses, or even just a nice route for a morning walk.</p> <p>Getting to know your neighbors isn’t just a good idea for feeling at home in your space quicker, there are plenty of practical benefits to a tight-knit neighborhood. Homeownership isn’t without its potential for danger or emergency situations. Having the peace of mind that your neighbors are watching out for you and your family in the case of fires or break-ins is priceless, plus (according to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2015/01/know-thy-neighbor-reduce-gun-violence/384598/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=sendto_newslettertest&stream=top#_ga=2.175689570.172928199.1694622116-849530539.1694622116" target="_blank">this article</a> from The Atlantic) communities that invest in social cohesion through increased trust and cooperation drive down gun violence and other violent crimes in their area.</p> <p>For homeowners who are just moving in and looking for advice on how to introduce themselves to their new neighbors, here are some simple strategies to get started!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Tips for Getting to Know Your New Neighbors</span></p> <ol> <li><strong>Spend Time Outside</strong><br /> Priority One for getting to know the people in your neighborhood should always be to look for reasons to be outside. Neighbors will be naturally curious to catch a look at the new family down the road. Although moving in is plenty of work and many are just accustomed to spending a lot of time indoors, moving trucks are an announcement that something new is happening, and people take notice.</li> <li><strong>Take the Initiative (and say, “Hello!”)</strong><br /> While it can be much easier to wait for new neighbors to introduce themselves, sometimes it will be necessary to take the first step. For those who are a bit more introverted than others, building up the courage to break the ice while being sensitive about their personal space can be a difficult hurdle to pass. Some may not realize that taking the initiative doesn’t have to be overly elaborate. Simply finding time to knock on a neighbor’s door to make an introduction goes a long way - it can be as straightforward as that!</li> <li><strong>Don’t Let An Opportunity Pass By</strong><br /> Finally, new homeowners should be intentional about making new relationships with neighbors a priority by jumping on each invitation or interaction that pops up. Moving into a new neighborhood, or city, or state is difficult and time consuming, so it is understandable that many reserve all freetime for relaxation and recuperation. With that said, spontaneous invitations and conversations can be rare, depending on the community.</li> </ol> <p>For the neighbors that are friendly enough to come by, be sure to smile and wave, and be open to enter into a conversation. For the other neighbors that might want to allow for some extra space and time to become acquainted with your new home, work in casual outdoor time. Relax on the porch, take time to improve the yard, and play with the kids or the family dog. Casual outdoor activities will show new neighbors that you aren’t too consumed or stressed out to be approached.</p> <p>Additionally, find a regular routine to take a walk around the neighborhood, learn the area, and make note of everyone else’s habits. Opportunities to launch into a conversation will naturally come up over time, and adding a dog into the picture is an easy conversation starter! Dogs often seem to make friends much easier than people do, and pet owners would be smart to take advantage of that fact!</p> <p><em>Note: As an extra way to bring neighbors to you, consider hosting a yard sale! Again, neighbors will be curious to see who moved in next door, and yard sales are a great way for people to easily get a picture of some family interests or hobbies. A yard sale is an open invitation for anyone to approach, so there shouldn’t be a sense of interrupting or invading your new space.</em></p> <p>Bringing along a batch of cookies or some other gift can also be a nice gesture, but shouldn’t be regarded as an essential. If finding a time when the new neighbors aren’t preoccupied at home becomes too difficult a task, consider joining local activities or organizations in the area such as the HOA or a local book club. Whatever the activity or organization, the point is to find a moment to interact with your new community and find some common interests to get the ball rolling.</p> <p>Ultimately, it doesn’t even matter if you’re particularly interested in the club. Make an appearance and use the occasion as an opportunity to make a dinner invitation or some other private outing. Although it might not always seem to be true, people are very willing to make new friends when the situation presents itself.</p> <p>A mantra that might be helpful to keep in mind is this: Say, “yes.” Maybe a neighbor needs help shoveling their driveway, or maybe they need an extra hand carrying their ladder around back. As long as you aren’t avoiding your neighbors, opportunities will present themselves. A great way to get to know your neighbors is just to be a good neighbor yourself!</p> <p><em>Struggling to find the right way to design your new home’s layout? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/interior-design-tips-finding-your-homes-feng-shui">Feng shui principles</a> can be a great place to start! Did you <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/did-you-skip-your-buyers-inspection">skip your buyer's home inspection</a>? Don’t worry - it’s not too late! Contact <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">your local NPI inspector</a> today.</em></p> 1536The Dangers of Lead: How to Make Your Home’s Drinking Water Safehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1515/the-dangers-of-lead-how-to-make-your-homes-drinking-water-safeHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 31 Jul 2023 17:59:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">THE DANGERS OF LEAD: HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME'S DRINKING WATER SAFE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> July 31, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>| <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">Plumbing</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a></p> <p>When in the market for a new home, there are endless considerations home buyers must think through. Dividing the “must-haves” from the “nice-to-haves” can be difficult, but parents are wise to keep the health of their families a top priority. Buyers can easily feel overwhelmed by the number of dangers and health hazards that demand their attention in purchasing a new home, but one health hazard that both the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-your-family-sources-lead#water" target="_blank">EPA</a> and the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/prevention/sources/water.htm?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fnceh%2Flead%2Fleadinwater%2Fdefault.htm" target="_blank">CDC</a> have highlighted as a concern in households is lead contamination.</p> <p>Many families and communities are exposed to the harmful effects of lead through their homes’ drinking water, but they may not be aware of this issue until after experiencing health problems. Lead contaminants within drinking water cannot be seen or tasted, so even in regions that aren’t commonly affected by lead, homeowners should be aware of every precaution at their disposal.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What are the Effects of Lead Contamination?</span><br /> Lead has been a major part of industry and various technological advancements in history, but widespread understanding of the harmful effects of lead poisoning didn’t truly occur until the late 1970s. In a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/campaigns/get_the_lead_out/pdfs/health/Needleman_1999.pdf" target="_blank">paper</a> produced in coordination with the Center for Biological Diversity, Dr. Herbert Needleman describes some of the findings from early behavioral studies conducted on children who recovered from lead poisoning. Here, pediatricians found 19 out of 20 children were diagnosed with considerable behavioral disorders or intellectual impairments even after recovery.</p> <p>Though studies like these led to transitions away from lead-based paints and other commonly-used lead plumbing, many are still subject to lead contamination to this day. Some of the most vulnerable groups include developing children (particularly under the age of six), and women while going through pregnancy. Of individuals who suffer from extreme lead exposure, health effects include:</p> <ul> <li>For Children: <ul> <li>The development of behavioral disorders</li> <li>Hyperactivity</li> <li>Anemia</li> <li>Lower IQ levels</li> <li>General irritability</li> <li>Weight loss and slowed growth</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <ul> <li>For Adult: <ul> <li>Cardiovascular issues</li> <li>Increased blood pressure</li> <li>Hypertension</li> <li>Anemia</li> <li>Reproductive issues</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p>Although the effects of excess lead exposure is more severe to children than they are to adults, couples who are expecting should be particularly wary of their lead intake. During pregnancy, lead can be easily transferred to the embryo throughout development. While these effects may sound alarming, it is important to note that most homes do not deal with meaningful lead contamination. For homes that do have high levels of lead contaminants, there are options to take action.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Actions Can Homeowners Take?</span><br /> Common sources of lead contamination vary based on region and economic situation. Up until 1978, lead-based paint was widely used in homes. Children’s toys, jewelry, and cosmetics all pose lead contamination risks. Though drinking water might seem to be a looming threat in the battle against lead, resolving this potential contaminant source might be the most actionable for homeowners.</p> <ol> <li> <p><strong>Determine Lead Contaminant</strong><br /> Homeowners should start by confirming whether they actually have an issue with lead in their drinking water! A suspicion is just a suspicion, initially. Under the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/sdwa" target="_blank">Safe Drinking Water Act</a> (SDWA), local community water systems are required to deliver an annual report on their drinking water quality each year by July 1. Even if a community’s water is clean, a home can be affected by out-of-date piping. Homeowners can order a water quality test to determine the status of their home’s personal water supply. (Contact your local NPI inspector to ask about water quality testing.)</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Implement a Filtration Plan</strong><br /> If a home’s drinking water does test highly for lead content, filters can be used to great effect. Filters can be directly applied to faucets as well as shower heads, and there are a wide variety of quality filter pitchers on the market that remove many common contaminants. For the most reliable filters, rely on those certified by the National Science Foundation (NSF).</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Run Cold Water When Cooking</strong><br /> Finally, it is important to point out that boiling water does not remove lead from water, and should not be relied upon as an option for reduction. In fact, warm and hot water are said to contain higher levels of water overall than cold water. Experts at the CDC recommend running water for a period of time (depending on the presence of a lead service line) prior to drinking to “flush” the home’s water systems.</p> </li> </ol> <p><em>Take additional steps at maintaining a safe and healthy home by learning about <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-improve-your-homes-ventilation-and-why-its-important">your home’s ventilation systems</a>. To schedule your annual home maintenance inspection, contact your <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">locally-owned National Property Inspections team</a> today!</em></p> <p><em> </em></p> 1515How to Host a Memorable Backyard Barbecuehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1499/how-to-host-a-memorable-backyard-barbecueHoliday,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 29 May 2023 19:38:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO HOST A MEMORABLE BACKYARD BARBECUE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> May 29, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just For Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/summer">summer</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>Summertime brings a special kind of excitement and plenty of opportunities to spend time with loved ones. The backyard barbecue is a classic way to spend a hot evening. Although everyone wants to throw a cookout for the ages, it’s important to take the right precautions beforehand to make sure your barbecue is memorable in all the right ways.</p> <p>Seamless and safe barbecues are all about preparation and safety. So for your next backyard bash or summer shindig, consider these tips to take it to the next level.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Practice Safe Grilling</span><br /> The grill master is a role that’s not to be taken lightly. Not only is the grill master responsible for satisfying everyone at the party, but any negligence on their part can lead to major damage or potential injury. Grilling spaces should always be carefully selected and at a minimum, 10 feet away from any structures to avoid dangerous stray embers. This may go without saying, but never grill inside! Any overhead coverings can also cause ventilation problems, and unstable bases can lead to grills tipping over.</p> <p>Ideally, grills should be set up with plenty of space, separate from toppings stations, side tables, and dessert spreads. The final and most important safety note that every master chef should take to heart is also the most simple: never leave the grill unsupervised! Between pets, wildlife, and kids that are all likely to add their own brand of chaos to a barbecue, responsible cooks know that no time frame is too short for something to go wrong.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Don’t Be Afraid to Mix It Up</span><br /> Responsible and safe practices set the foundation for a successful barbecue, but it will be the areas where you break from the normal routine that will make the occasion stand out. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken are some staples that shouldn’t be overlooked, but consider adding a few unique foods into the mix.</p> <p>To name just a few out-of-the-box options, here are some additional grillable items that could steal the show at your next barbecue:</p> <ul> <li>Pork Chops</li> <li>Asparagus</li> <li>Cauliflower</li> <li>Cabbage</li> <li>Watermelon</li> </ul> <p>After adding these new entrees into your repertoire, it’s important to consider the power of the side. It seems that many party hosts already feel less restricted when it comes to experimenting with sides. Enlisting the help of guests to cover all the bases with sides and desserts can allow for even more opportunities to offer additional variety.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Always Be Prepared With a Back-up Plan</span><br /> Planning parties successfully involves learning how to adapt when things go wrong. As the host, it is your job to not only plan out your barbecue, but also think through what to do if the weather takes a turn for the worse, if your space becomes unavailable, or if the grill doesn’t work.</p> <p>Set up an area indoors that could handle the expected party guests in a pinch, and consider cooking an entree or two in advance for additional flexibility. Although never ideal, pivoting to instead order a pizza and entertain guests in your living room can have all the necessary ingredients for a memorable event. Ultimately, barbecues and cookouts are excuses to spend time with friends and family. Don’t get hung up on making everything perfect, and enjoy the day!</p> <p><em>Although your barbecue can survive a few surprises, homeowners should never be surprised when it comes to major home maintenance projects! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact</a> your local NPI inspector to arrange a home maintenance inspection today, and never get caught unaware of the condition of your home.</em></p> 1499Home Maintenance Items to Prioritize After Your Inspectionhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1498/home-maintenance-items-to-prioritize-after-your-inspectionHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 22 May 2023 19:35:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOME MAINTENANCE ITEMS TO PRIORITIZE AFTER YOUR INSPECTION</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> May 22, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/attic">attic</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/foundation">foundation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/mold">mold</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/radon">radon</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/hvac">HVAC</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>Home inspectors and other real estate professionals know the truth that every new homebuyer will have to swallow: no home is perfect. Each house has a unique array of attractions and eye-catching features sure to draw in families. At the same time, there isn’t a home that doesn’t have its share of warts or bruises as well.</p> <p>Your local home inspector is the key to identifying building and property maintenance issues while keeping the weight of each concern in perspective. To review the differences between which features should be addressed as soon as possible and which can be put off until later on, here are your home maintenance priorities post-inspection.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Is The Condition of the Roof?</span><br /> One of the top priorities of every new homeowner should be to understand the condition of their roof. Roofing is considered one of the main cornerstones of home systems for a few reasons. The roof is the home’s primary defense against weather and the elements. Without solid integrity, leaks are just the start of a slew of problems including the potential for mold and energy inefficiency.</p> <p>All roofs have a natural lifespan until shingles begin deteriorating beyond the point of serving their use. Since other circumstances can expedite this aging process and homeowners are often unaware of the age of their roofs, the conditions revealed during a home inspection are invaluable to home buyers as they plan out their long-term home maintenance plans. A new roof can cost upwards of $15,000 to replace. A solid home maintenance plan can extend a roof’s lifespan, and a home inspection is the first step in setting homeowners up for success.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Is There Cracking in the Foundation?</span><br /> To a certain extent, foundation cracks should be expected in every home. After construction shrinkage cracks develop as the foundation dries, natural expansion and contraction cycles will also result in foundation cracks. Although these cracks only point to structural damage when paired with other evidence of structural strain, even small cracks can lead to concerning issues. Water intrusion through small cracks can lead to mold, radon gas can filter more easily into the home, and large enough foundation cracks can even grant access to all sorts of pests.</p> <p>After identifying and recognizing the severity of foundation cracks, epoxy sealers can be a great solution to avoid letting the issue grow. If a foundation crack is too wide, consultation with an engineer or contractor may be necessary. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) provides more insights <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.nahb.org/-/media/NAHB/advocacy/docs/legal-issues/construction-liability/trending-now/misconceptions-about-the-common-crack-summary.pdf" target="_blank">here</a> on what sorts of foundation cracks should and shouldn’t be major concerns.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Are The Mechanical Systems Functioning Correctly?</span><br /> A home’s mechanical systems are essential to what makes a home comfortable for its inhabitants, but aged, poorly installed, or damaged mechanical systems can also pose serious fire hazards if left unchecked. In particular, home inspectors will examine the condition and lifespan of heating and cooling systems, as well as the functionality of power outlets throughout the home to determine safety and longevity.</p> <p>Although replacing mechanical systems can be costly, properly functioning systems will be more energy-efficient and cost-effective as time goes on. To ensure that your home practices safe electrical habits, check out these tips from the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Electrical" target="_blank">National Fire Protection Association</a>.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Are There Any Signs of Water Intrusion?</span><br /> Some of the most commonly addressed issues discovered during a home inspection are those related to water intrusion. Water can lead to considerable damage as it enters into the home through unintended ways. Foundation cracks, roof damage, and piping deterioration are all common sources of unwanted water within the home. To resolve water intrusion issues, it is best to identify the source first.</p> <p>Home inspectors can perform Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) testing and Mold Inspections to help identify the root of water intrusion in the home, and to identify whether water intrusion might be an issue even without an obviously visible water leak. Homeowners can perform basic maintenance checks by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/maintenance-minutes-how-to-check-for-window-leaks">repairing leaky windows</a> and doors throughout their homes and investigating their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-handle-mold-in-your-attic">attics for the presence of mold</a>. Water intrusion is one of the most costly issues a home can have. For peace of mind, homeowners should practice good maintenance by incorporating a home maintenance inspection into their annual routine.</p> <p><em><a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Call NPI today</a> for a consultation to learn more from an experienced home inspection professional in your area!</em></p> 1498Why Is Vinyl Flooring So Popular? Should Homeowners Be Concerned?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1495/why-is-vinyl-flooring-so-popular-should-homeowners-be-concernedDIY,Home Decor,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 01 May 2023 19:07:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">WHY IS VINYL FLOORING SO POPULAR? SHOULD HOMEOWNERS BE CONCERNED?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> May 1, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time-homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a></p> <p>Anyone familiar with the home real estate market has surely experienced the impressive prevalence of vinyl flooring. From the basement to the dining room to the family room and everywhere in between, it can seem impossible to avoid this synthetic flooring option. In fact, it has officially become the most popular flooring option on the market (just behind carpeting).</p> <p>However, for designers and homebuyers who prefer natural materials, the massive footprint of vinyl in the flooring market is a frustrating turn. After all, vinyl flooring is ultimately just an imitation of the authentic stuff (hardwood, stone, or tile). Other than affordability, is there any benefit to opting for vinyl flooring? To help drill down the real reasons for why vinyl flooring is so popular, let’s look at its potential benefits before discussing its lesser known problems.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is Vinyl Flooring?</span><br /> Far from a recent invention, vinyl can trace its history back to a legacy of “resilient flooring,” or flooring materials that were bendable and flexible, which made them much easier to install. In the late 1800s, vinyl was developed and first introduced to the public when incorporated into golf balls, shower curtains, and shoe heels. Vinyl actually wasn’t proposed as an option for flooring until the 1930s.</p> <p>Marketed and coveted for its versatility and flame-resistant nature, vinyl flooring rapidly grew in popularity, especially as the material was slowly improved upon over the decades by features like cushioned flooring for increased comfort. Today, vinyl flooring can be installed in plank flooring or smaller tile flooring depending on what sort of material is being simulated.</p> <p>Vinyl flooring has a sizable presence in both the residential and commercial real estate sectors, and its ability to replicate the look and feel of natural materials seems to improve every year. The benefits of vinyl flooring don’t stop there, by any means, though.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are The Benefits of Vinyl Flooring?</span><br /> As previously mentioned, vinyl flooring really cannot be beat when it comes to affordability. According to an article published by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/flooring/types-of-flooring/" target="_blank">Forbes</a> comparing the costs of various flooring types, vinyl flooring was by far the most economical option ($1.50 - $6 per square foot at the time of publishing).</p> <p>Homebuyers and renovators looking for the most budget-friendly option are naturally drawn to these savings, but vinyl flooring is also designed with DIYers in mind. Rather than paying for professionals to install hardwood flooring, homeowners can save even more by installing vinyl flooring themselves. Vinyl can be installed over pretty much anything, including concrete, hardwood, or even different layers of vinyl.</p> <p>Vinyl flooring is flame-resistant, waterproof, and incredibly durable with resistances to scratches and scuffs. Thanks to these traits and its low demand on maintenance, families with younger children and pets are even more drawn to vinyl as a flooring material for pretty much any room in the home. Seemingly on every point vinyl flooring looks to be a strong option for homes and commercial properties, so what’s with the detractors? The truth is, as some argue, vinyl flooring might have their own health concerns that remain largely unknown to the general public.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Problem with Vinyl Flooring</span><br /> Many homeowners prefer the look and feel of natural materials in their flooring, even though hardwood floors or stone materials are more costly and require more maintenance. However, the reason why some have become a bit more alarmed by vinyl flooring options is due to the discovery that some of its materials may contain toxins.</p> <p>Healthline Media, a health information publication based out of San Francisco, published an <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/vinyl-floors-expose-children-to-harmful-chemicals#The-bottom-line" target="_blank">article</a> criticizing flame retardants used in vinyl flooring and furniture due to their association with “...respiratory problems, neurological issues, skin irritation, and cancer.” In addition, a group of chemicals called “phthalates,” which are used to make flooring materials more durable, have been attributed to negatively affect development in young children.</p> <p>Although there is plenty of dissension and skepticism towards some of these somewhat alarmist health claims, the negative qualities of vinyl flooring may be too quickly overlooked due ease of installation and minimal maintenance needs. Hardwood flooring, tile, and stone material designs can be beautiful and tie a room together in ways that synthetic alternatives just can’t match.</p> <p><em>Neglected home maintenance tasks can lead to major problems down the road. Need an update on the condition of your home? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule</a> a home maintenance inspection today!</em></p> 1495Did You Skip Your Buyer’s Inspection?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1489/did-you-skip-your-buyers-inspectionHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 24 Apr 2023 17:24:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">DID YOU SKIP YOUR BUYER'S INSPECTION?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> April 24, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/mold">mold</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/radon">radon</a></p> <p>In competitive housing markets where availability is low and sellers seem to have all of the leverage, buyers sometimes feel the need to compromise in order to find a home that fits their needs. As this dynamic combines with tough economic times or financial strain, many homeowners in search of an answer to these issues have opted to skip their buyer’s inspection altogether.</p> <p>A home inspection is the only way for owners to get the full picture of their home’s condition. Without this professional assessment, homeowners are playing a dangerous game, as minor issues can escalate into major expenses down the road. If conditions forced you to skip your buyer’s inspection and you are searching for options, look no further! In this article, we outline the best steps for homeowners who missed their home inspection.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Why Do People Skip Their Buyer’s Inspection?</span><br /> For those who are aware of the value that a home inspection brings during a home-purchasing negotiation, the thought of bypassing it altogether can seem surprising. With that said, some people have opted to go this route for a number of reasons.</p> <p>According to an <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/homeowners-skipping-inspections/" target="_blank">article</a> published by Forbes, 85% of Americans opted to sidestep a number of essential home-purchasing steps (including insurance, warranties, and home inspections) in order to save on overall costs and to avoid the seller accepting other offers. While this route will accelerate the overall sales process, the result is like walking into a new home blind.</p> <p>Home inspections are a thorough assessment of a property’s key features. After the inspector performs their examination (in accordance with the discussed pre-inspection agreement), they will supply the homebuyer with a detailed report which serves as a comprehensive overview of their new home.</p> <p>Without a home inspection, buyers will be unaware of urgent maintenance needs to critical systems and other costly repair needs. Depending on the needs of the property, a home inspection can even uncover serious safety concerns, such as outdated electrical systems, the presence of mold or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/radon-protecting-your-house-from-a-hidden-danger">radon gas</a>, and insufficient ventilation, which can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What To Do If You Skipped Your Buyer’s Inspection</span><br /> Whether unaware of its importance or forced to skip the home inspection due to other factors, homeowners still have the opportunity to recover, even after their purchase has been finalized.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">1. Order A Post-Purchase Inspection</span><br /> The first (and best) thing that a new homeowner can do after purchasing their house is to order a “post-purchase inspection.” While they won’t be able to capitalize on any negotiating power that a major repair discovery would warrant or potentially back out from a home with too many red flags, a post-purchase inspection will provide all of the valuable information a standard buyer’s inspection would have.</p> <p>With a home inspection report in hand, homeowners can plan important repairs and upgrades, as well as develop their long-term home maintenance strategy. No home is perfect, but planning ahead is the only way to extend the lifespan of a home’s key systems.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">2. Schedule An Annual or Bi-Annual Home Maintenance Inspection</span><br /> While an inspection report is invaluable to homeowners, it captures the condition of a home only at the time of the inspection. Natural weather events and home improvement mishaps can all cause home systems to deteriorate quicker than expected, and the only way to get ahead of expensive malfunctions or even full breakdowns is through a regular home maintenance inspection.</p> <p>Professional property inspectors are trained to evaluate homes based on a strict set of standards that can help owners track their maintenance needs. Whether scheduling them once a year or twice annually, recurring home maintenance inspections provide the best picture of a home in its current state.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">3. Start With A Stand-Alone Add-On Service</span><br /> Finally, if a full inspection is out of the question for whatever reason, homeowners can order a specific service to target a single concern. For instance, homes across the country deal with varying levels of radon which are particularly harmful to smokers and former smokers. Home inspectors can test only for radon in order to determine whether mitigation measures are needed in a new home.</p> <p>Other stand-alone add-on services include indoor air quality testing, sewer scope scans, mold testing, and more. Homeowners should take these necessary steps to ensure their home is safe for habitation.</p> <p><em>For more information on which services your local NPI inspector offers, call for a consultation or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">visit your website</a>!</em></p> 1489How To Improve Your Home’s Ventilation (And Why It’s Important)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1483/how-to-improve-your-homes-ventilation-and-why-its-importantHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 10 Apr 2023 14:16:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME'S VENTILATION (AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> April 10, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/mold">mold</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a></p> <p>Staying on top of a home’s upkeep can often feel like a full-time job. With every project checked off the list, oftentimes homeowners end up adding two more in a never-ending quest for home improvement. While some home maintenance and home upgrade projects can seem to add a lot to a homeowner’s plate, improving a home’s ventilation systems tends to eliminate many pesky household issues.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is Home Ventilation?</span><br /> Ventilation refers to the systems a home uses to cycle out pollutants and carry in fresh air, while also regulating a comfortable indoor environment. Older homes were able to get by with natural ventilation through windows, doors, and natural air leaks in walls and ceilings, but current systems are more sophisticated.</p> <p>The modern home has become much more air-tight than in the past in an attempt to improve energy efficiency. The side effects of these building philosophies have led to many new maintenance issues and even health problems for families. Homeowners who are unaware of the state of their house’s ventilation systems will benefit from a regular home systems inspection.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Why is Ventilation Important?</span><br /> Poor ventilation leads to problems throughout the home. A home has two key contributors to pollutants and condensation: the bathroom and the kitchen. Due to baking, washing, and showering, these rooms experience much more temperature variance and moisture accumulation than other rooms.</p> <p>When properly ventilated, these issues can be rebuffed. Otherwise, unregulated moisture build-up can lead to mold, respiratory issues, asthma aggravation, and even heart disease. On top of this, inefficient ventilation can cause cooling and heating systems to work much harder than they need to, and homes can hold onto old, musty smells. For a healthy home, ventilation is paramount.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What are the Signs of Poor Ventilation?</span><br /> Many maintenance issues can build up overtime, unnoticed by homeowners. However, there are a few signs that point towards a home with poor ventilation:</p> <ol> <li><strong>Windows </strong>that are constantly foggy or have pooling water around the frame and on the window sill point towards a home with too much moisture in the air.</li> <li><strong>Mold </strong>can sometimes be easily identified through dark patches on floors and ceilings, but mold can also develop behind walls, above ceilings, and in other hidden places. Mold testing from a licensed home inspector is the best way to identify this issue.</li> <li>One of the quickest ways to identify a home with poor ventilation is through <strong>smell</strong>. Exhaust fumes from appliances and accumulating pollutants can make indoor air toxic and stale. When guests consistently point out strange smells or residents experience frequent illness, it may be a good idea to schedule an indoor air test.</li> </ol> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Do You Improve Your Home’s Ventilation?</span><br /> A home inspection can point homeowners towards any maintenance issues in their new home. If you suspect your home may have ineffective ventilation systems, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">schedule</a> a home maintenance inspection! With mold inspections and indoor air testing, many certified inspectors can key in on specific concerns.</p> <p>Most new homes rely on either Spot Ventilation systems in key rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, or on Whole-House Ventilation systems. Many older homes need their ventilation systems upgraded based on modern understanding, and newer homes often need to find a better balance between their insulation and ventilation.</p> <p>To better prepare for unexpected build-up of toxins in the air, homeowners should always make sure they have a Carbon Monoxide detector installed and working properly! While ventilation improvements will make your home look and smell better, your health should always come first.</p> <p><em>National Property Inspections is the top name in home and commercial property inspections, with franchises nation-wide! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/property-inspections-are-reaching-new-heights-with-drones">Learn more</a> about how NPI professionals are at the forefront of the industry with the latest techniques and technologies.</em></p> 1483What To Consider Before Getting A Poolhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1482/what-to-consider-before-getting-a-poolHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 03 Apr 2023 14:03:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE GETTING A POOL</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> April 3, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pool">pool</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/landscaping">landscaping</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a></p> <p>New homebuyers have so much to consider as they search for their dream home. Outside of architectural style, location, number of bedrooms, or whether it has a multi-car garage, homeowners need to be able to picture life within the house. Can they picture their kids playing in the backyard? Is this the type of place where they can see their family and friends wanting to come and visit?</p> <p>One amenity that has the ability to generate a great deal of excitement and ensure that a new home will be a gathering point for friends and family is the swimming pool. However, there are a lot of added responsibilities that come with managing and maintaining a pool. Whether you’re a homebuyer looking at a property with a pool, or you’re a homeowner who is thinking of making a dynamic addition to their home, here are a few things to consider before getting a pool.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Effects on Your ROI</span><br /> When making any major alteration to a property, homeowners should consider what impact that change will have on their property value. Even if the expectation is to stay in the same home for a long time, plans can change quickly! Although conventional wisdom might dictate that installing a swimming pool would considerably raise a home’s value, that isn’t always the case.</p> <p>Maintaining a swimming pool either means dedicating time or setting aside money to hire out for its upkeep. Due to the commitment, some home buyers might be immediately turned off from any homes with a pool. Additionally, if the climate limits the use of a swimming pool throughout the year, or pools just aren’t as common in the neighborhood, chances of a strong return on investment for a new installation are further dampened.</p> <p>Homeowners should go into the notion of installing a pool with the expectation of a net neutral impact on their ROI. For homebuyers looking to purchase a home with a pool, inspections are crucial for understanding the condition and age of the system. Especially in cases where a pool installation will eat up a large portion of a property’s backyard, proceed with caution!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Costs of Installation and Maintenance</span><br /> The costs of installing a pool vary from region to region, but real savings come from the type of pool. Even in the best of conditions, an in-ground pool will be substantially more expensive than an above-ground pool. While above-ground generally will cost a few thousand dollars, in-ground pools average around $35,000.</p> <p>From there, considerations for materials (either the customizable but more expensive concrete pools, or less customizable but more economical fiberglass), or added features such as lighting, fountains, and decking will add to overall costs. Yards that are particularly hilly or restricted with space additionally drive up costs and lengthen the excavation process.</p> <p>With a swimming pool in place, homeowners should also be aware of the costs associated with maintenance. Some liners require replacement periodically, chemicals need to be balanced and safe for swimmers, and there are also costs associated with annual start-ups and shut-downs.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Importance of a Pool Inspection</span><br /> Clearly, there are a large number of concerns associated with pool ownership, but a lot of these concerns can be assuaged with a pool inspection. Every homebuyer or seller should already order a home inspection to learn about the condition and history of the property, but many property inspectors can assist with a full pool inspection as well!</p> <p>Pool inspectors check into local safety standards to determine whether a swimming pool is in operable condition or whether repairs are needed. For example, a common standard includes perimeter fences of at least 5-feet high with self-closing doors and automatic locks. Even in cases where neighborhood kids sneak into a pool without permission and get injured, the property owner will be held liable.</p> <p>Cracking and staining are also common in swimming pools. With an experienced pool inspector, these small issues can be pointed out and evaluated to determine whether they are signs of deeper, structural issues. Swimming pools can be an exciting addition to a home, but prospective buyers should have a realistic understanding of what pool ownership realistically looks like for them.</p> <p><em>The National Property Inspections network consists of experts that span from coast to coast! To find a professional property inspector in your area, check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">our website</a> today!</em></p> 1482Property Inspections Are Reaching New Heights With Droneshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1469/property-inspections-are-reaching-new-heights-with-dronesHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 06 Mar 2023 21:07:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">PROPERTY INSPECTIONS ARE REACHING NEW HEIGHTS WITH DRONES</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 6, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a></p> <p>When students try to predict their future careers, they face a tall task. More likely than not, their future career probably doesn’t even exist yet! Technology is advancing at a breakneck pace, and as a result, workers are finding themselves in exciting new fields and industry standards are transforming every year. These new technologies give many professions brand new tools which allow them to accomplish things scarcely imagined in the past. In the property inspection industry, a tool that’s finding its way into many inspectors’ tool belts and may be revolutionizing the field is the drone.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are Drones?</span><br /> Drones are a short-hand name used when referring to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (or UAVs). This general term refers to an incredibly wide range of devices that have been used in various recreational activities, to capture footage for films, and even to perform reconnaissance in warfare. Though they started out as mostly a novelty when made available to the public, drones have quickly become a tool to aid various commercial enterprises.</p> <p>In the field of property inspections, drones are more lightweight than some of their industrial counterparts. Property inspectors are restricted to units weighing under 55 pounds, but most are under three pounds total. These drones typically consist of an “X”-shaped frame, with a propeller at each end, motors, a battery and interior components, and a high definition camera. With a fair bit of modular capabilities, drones can be adjusted to fit the needs of the inspector, or the unique needs of a particular job.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Do Property Inspectors Use Drones?</span><br /> During a home inspection, one of the most dangerous parts of the job is the roof inspection. Roofs have many hazards that may not be immediately visible, such as moss buildup, slippery debris like snow or leaves, or unaddressed fire damage. Oftentimes the greatest danger that roofs pose come from their steep grade. While property inspectors will always conduct as thorough an inspection as possible (within the scope of the job), a roof’s construction can limit an inspector’s view and pose unneeded risks.</p> <p>With drones, roof inspections are not only safer, they can be done with a level of detail that was previously impossible. Drone cameras collect high-resolution footage spanning the entirety of the roof and their maneuverability allows inspectors to capture angles and navigate to areas that may otherwise be inaccessible. Specially-designed lenses can be used to capture problems invisible to the human eye, and even chimneys can be more closely examined with sophisticated zooming features.</p> <p>Roof inspections are one of the most important actions that homeowners should take to ensure proper maintenance of their properties because roofs are one of the most expensive parts of a home to repair or replace. With drone footage, inspectors can find any issues with drainage, signs of leakage, and markers that may indicate a roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are The Requirements To Pilot A Drone Commercially?</span><br /> Drones are sophisticated tools, and commercial use of these tools comes with a set of requirements to ensure pilots are sufficiently responsible and capable. In short, property inspectors are held to a higher standard than a general, recreational drone pilot.</p> <p>Commercial drone operators must first obtain their Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), following mandates outlined by the Federation Aviation Administration (FAA). To become licensed, property inspectors take the IAKT, which is an aeronautical competency test administered by the FAA similar to ones taken for private pilot’s licenses. FAA-certified pilots are trained to evaluate weather conditions, operate within compliance of local airspace and flight restrictions, and perform consistent safety protocols before any drone flight.</p> <p>With the right experience and the right tools, property inspectors are moving their industry to a whole new level. The benefit for homeowners? Fewer surprises and more peace of mind!</p> <p><em>Interested in booking a home maintenance inspection? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact</a> your local NPI property inspector and schedule your next checkup today!</em></p> <meta property="og:image" content="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/2023/Drones.jpg?ver=rkF5hKQG0MuC9urt0jCTNw%3d%3d" />1469