​The title of this blog asks a good question, especially as we live in an area that has seen a lot of flooding in the past.  So, should you purchase a home that has a previous history of flooding? The answer to that question really depends on the source of the flood and how well the water damage was taken care of.  To help you understand this a little better, here is a short video.  It highlights the potential problems you may encounter if you decide to invest in a flood damaged property. 
 
Purchasing a home is a stressful thing to do and requires a lot work but, you do not have to do all this work by yourself.  We are here to make the home buying process a little easier for you by providing a very thorough and comprehensive home inspection.  We want your home to be a place you can feel comfortable and relaxed in.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us with your questions and concerns.
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​Trees can add so much to a property.  Not only are they a beautiful addition to a landscape, but they can also provide an extra level of privacy which many homeowners look for.  However, is it a good idea to have trees situated too close to the building itself?  Let’s look at some of the issues that might arise from this:
 
There are a number of concerns associated with trees close to a building.  Perhaps one of the big concerns for a homeowner is; are the trees roots going to damage the homes foundations? If cracks already exist in a home’s foundation, a trees roots can start to make their way into those cracks.  Very large tree roots can even start growing under the foundation and cause it to raise.
 
Falling branches and tree limbs are another concern if trees are close to the home.  These could fall and damage the roof, power lines, communication lines or, even worse, someone passing by or living in the home.  Leaves and branches could also clog gutters and drains which, if not cleaned out regularly, can create structural issues over time.
 
Fire is another reason for concern.  Trees can increase the risk of fire spreading throughout the home.  This would be a major concern in areas at high risk of wildfire.  There may also be a need for extra levels of pest control as trees allow rodents and insects easier access to different areas of the home.
 
If you have trees close to your home, what can you do to minimize some of the dangers associated with it?  Check the condition of the trees to see if they are dead or dying.  An unhealthy tree will pose more of a risk for falling branches etc.  Have a professional trim the trees for you.  If you are worried about any possible structural issues, why not have the home inspected?  That way, you can enjoy better peace of mind.