The area is experiencing an unprecedented building boom and there are not enough skilled tradespeople to meet the demand. This competition for labor—particularly by the national builders in the area—is being addressed through subcontracting of virtually anyone who will show up…

This means it’s up to the county inspectors, which are assigned specific items to verify and who can spend little time at a job site, and the builder’s own quality control program to catch problems.

If you’re building a new home in southern Delaware, an impartial inspection by a licensed home inspector is a smart move. These are the top three types of defects found in area homes we’ve inspected in 2022.

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) water supply lines are a common installation in area homes built or replumbed during the last 20 years. Installing PEX is often easier and faster than PVC or copper supply lines because of its flexibility and fitting connections, which can help offset project costs. However, just like other plumbing innovations, PEX materials and fittings have had problems. 

Homebuyers looking to finance a home purchase with a Veterans Administration (VA) insured loan are sometimes surprised to find that they are not allowed to purchase or refinance a particular property because it doesn't meet VA lending requirements.

Most lenders will require a foundation compliance certification, per the guidelines set forth by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The certificate is performed by a licensed professional engineer or architect…

The HVAC efficiency rating of 14 SEER is currently the standard for the southeastern region, which includes Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia; however, on January 1, 2023, the federal minimum SEER2 rating will increase to 15 SEER.

Whether you already own your home or are in the market for one, be sure not to overlook the warning signs of tree problems that could put your family and property at risk.

Homebuyers looking to finance a home purchase with Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or a Veterans Administration (VA) insured loan are sometimes surprised to find that they are not allowed to purchase a particular resale property because it doesn't meet FHA or VA lending requirements.

Although now banned in residential construction, durable and heat-resistant Asbestos was a major component in many building materials up until the 1980s. If you suspect there is asbestos in your flooring, it’s important to have it tested and, if confirmed, have it properly removed, and the area remediated before you begin replacing it.

We expect some minor repairs for normal wear and tear, e.g., worn flooring and wall surfaces and fixtures nearing the end of their service lives. Burn marks on the countertops, multiple holes in the walls, trash & other items left behind, broken fixtures, stained & dirty carpets, etc. are not normal wear and tear. Make an honest effort to get the house ready to rent--just like it was when you moved in.

Longtime landlords and property managers know the value of thorough tenant screening. Here are some other things you can do to mitigate problems during a post-tenancy walk-through.

If you are applying for financing, obtaining a “termite letter” maybe a lender requirement. The moniker applies to a HUD-approved, National Pest Management Association (NPMA)-33 Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report. Here’s what you need to know…

Universal design is a concept that seeks to make homes as physically accessible and barrier-free as possible—improving safety and utility. Typically, the wider doors and hallways and removal of partition walls often make a house feel more spacious

Short Answer: Yes, you should insist on an independent home inspection by a licensed New Residential Structures (NRS) Certified Home Inspector.

Here’s why…

Most people assume that the building code enforcement inspections of their new home construction are technically exhaustive and supplant the need for a traditional home inspection—like those recommended for existing homes prior to purchase.

No Contingency Offer? Skipping the Home Inspection is a Bad Idea!

The overheated housing market in our area is leading to bidding wars and atypical concessions—with buyers voluntarily removing the inspection contingency from the purchasing agreement.

Getting a home inspection is always a good idea, and if someone tells you otherwise, they are acting in their best interests—not yours. You should always protect your investment and get a punch list inspection!

Some service providers may offer a no-cost evaluation, but don’t be fooled.

Does Your Delaware Radon Inspection Test Need to be Revisited? Testing for radon is the only way to be certain that there is not a problem in the home; however, there are several things that could negatively influence the test or, worse yet, produce a wrong result.