When was the last time you had the crawl space under your investment
properties inspected? For most property owners it was when the property was
purchased. If a tenant has a leak in an upstairs bathroom they will surely let
you know as the water will eventually be seeping through the ceiling below. But,
what about the first floor bathrooms and kitchen? Leaks in water lines, drain
pipe, toilets or tubs can go undetected for years.
An easy inexpensive solution is to schedule a Wood
Destroying Pest and Organisms Inspection, also known as a termite inspection, once
every 2-3 years. An inspection for a duplex cost less than $200. The inspector will
check the interior of your bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, and water heater
closet for leaking plumbing, deteriorated caulking and signs water damaged
walls and floors. He will check all your windows and ceilings for signs water penetration.
He will examine the entire perimeter of your crawl space and under the
bathrooms and kitchen for leaks, fungus damage and dry rot. After the
inspection you will receive a comprehensive report that identifies active wood
destroying problems (section 1 items) and preventative maintenance recommendations
(section 2 items). Most inspection companies will also provide an estimate for
repairing the section 1 items.
At less than $200 for a duplex every 2-3 years, this inspection is a
bargain. Early detection and timely repairing of water leaks will prevent
serious structural damage to your property, saving you thousands of dollars. If
you are interested in having your property inspected I will be happy to recommend
a professional.
