Maybee Property Inspections

Over 6 inches of rain yesterday, with another inch expected today. That’s a lot of water in a short amount of time.

Even if your home didn’t take on obvious floodwater, now is the time to keep an eye out for hidden problems.

After heavy rainfall:

* Check your basement or crawlspace for standing water or damp spots.
* Look for water stains on ceilings, walls, and around windows.
* Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear and directing water away from the foundation.
* Watch for new cracks in drywall, sticking doors, or windows that won’t close properly.
* If your HVAC equipment or electrical components were exposed to water, have them evaluated before using them.
* Dry out any wet materials quickly. Mold can begin growing in as little as 24–48 hours.

Remember, water doesn’t have to enter your living space to cause damage. Saturated soil can put pressure on foundation walls, and prolonged moisture can affect structural components, insulation, and indoor air quality.

As a home inspector, I’ve seen many issues that didn’t become visible until weeks after the rain stopped. A quick inspection today can often prevent a much more expensive repair tomorrow.

Stay safe, and if your home was impacted by the storms, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Prevention is almost always less expensive than repair.

Two fresh 5-star reviews in the same afternoon, grateful beyond words for clients who trust us to look out for them, and for the chance to do work that actually matters.

Three months ago I inspected a home for a buyer who’s new to the area. I found storm windows that had been screwed directly through the vinyl window frames — improper installation, no head flashing, and active moisture already getting into the walls.

That finding saved my client about $9,000 before he ever signed.

Here’s the part that surprised even me. The windows got replaced, and he asked me to come back out and check the new install. I expected to confirm it was done right and move on.

It wasn’t.

Daylight visible from inside, looking out, at eleven windows. Caulk smeared over the frames to hide the gaps instead of proper sealing and flashing. A big open gap at the front window. Brand-new windows — installed wrong all over again.

This is why I tell people a window “replacement” isn’t automatically a fix. The product can be great, but if it’s not flashed, sealed, and integrated into the wall correctly, you’ve still got water heading into your framing. You just can’t see it yet.

Whether it’s the original install or the do-over, get a second set of eyes on it. It’s your house and your money.

Glad I could look out for you, Jonathan.