Blog
5 Benefits of a Pre-Listing Inspection to Real-Estate Professionals
Pre-listing inspections are an invaluable tool for real estate professionals, helping them save time and money while allowing them to provide their clients with the best possible experience. By hiring a certified inspector to examine a property before it comes onto...
The History of GFCI Protection
GFCI outlets and breakers have been in use in the U.S. since the early 1970s. GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter and these devices protect people from electrical shock by sensing an interruption in the flow of electricity through the hot and neutral...
9 Essential Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
Every homeowner should have the right tools to tackle any repair, maintenance, or improvement project. A toolbox stocked with basic supplies and equipment is essential for tackling routine tasks like changing light bulbs or installing new fixtures. Here are nine...
A quick history of House Framing in America
There are three main eras of house framing in America: 1. Timber Framing (AKA Post and Beam): Pre-colonial period to mid 1800s. 2. Balloon Framing: Mid1800s till the1930s, becoming dominant in the late 1800s. 3. Platform framing: Since the late 1930s platform framing...
How to Spot an Underground Oil Tank
Both the Rhode Island and Massachusetts Home Inspectors Standards of Practice state: “The Inspector shall note any evidence of underground fuel storage tanks.” Since underground oil tanks have the potential to be a huge liability for all parties involved it is...
Is That Termite Damage?
Inspectors have to determine the cause of damaged wood they find on the exterior, basement or interior of a house. If the damage is caused by wood destroying insects then treatment may be necessary, if the damage is caused by wood rot of one variety or another then no...
The Dutch Colonial House
The Dutch Colonial style home is often characterized by a distinct gambrel style roof, which is a roof with two distinct angles on each side. The double pitched roof sets the Dutch style apart from the more widely seen English colonial styles which feature a more...
4 Ways to Boost Curb Appeal in Winter
Winter can be difficult for homeowners who want their homes to look attractive and inviting. Whether you're putting your house on the market or just want to spruce up the exterior, here are four ways to boost curb appeal in winter. Regular maintenance and a bit of...
Stone Walls: Their History and Beauty
Growing up in New England aquants one with a landscape feature that is peculiar to The North Eastern Portion of the United States. The Stone Wall. They have become so ubiquitous as to be part of the very landscape of the region. Orange and red, beautiful beaches, and...
7 Tips for Fire Safety in the Home
House fires are the leading cause of property damage in the United States. An estimated 350,000 house fires occur each year, resulting in millions of dollars in damages. Check out these seven tips for fire safety in the home to keep your family safe. 1. Fire Safety in...
7 Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, give thanks, and enjoy a delicious feast. Keep your family and friends safe with these tips to help you have a safe Thanksgiving. 1. Inspect Your Home for Safety Hazards If you’re hosting a Thanksgiving meal at...
3 Things to Know About Radon
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that radon is the second most common cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking. No short-term health symptoms are associated with radon poisoning, but there is a long-term risk of lung cancer. It is important...
Queen Anne Style Homes
Queen Anne style is a subset of the Victorian style home, sometimes confused with being the entirety of the Victorian style. The Queen Anne Style was named after the British Queen Anne who actually reigned some-150 years before her architectural style. While Victorian...
5 Tips for Chimney Maintenance
Few things feel as cozy as a warm, crackling fire on a cold winter night. However, if you don't keep up with chimney maintenance, it might not be safe to use your fireplace. Here are five tips to make sure your chimney and fireplace are in good condition and...
Do You Know What a Dormer Window Is?
A dormer window is a window that juts out from the slope of a roof and has its own separate roof covering it in miniature. Dormer windows were created as a way to bring sunlight into an attic or loft space; they date all the way back to 12th century Europe but are...
History of Cape Cod Style Homes
Cape Cod-style homes originated in America in the 1700s. The name “Cape Cod House” was coined by Reverend Timothy Dwight IV who was president of Yale University in the early 1800s when he visited the Cape in 1800 and noticed the distinctive style. Cape Cod homes were...
4 Common Concerns in Older Homes
Older homes connect their owners with history, allow room for updates, have unique and custom features, and are often more affordable than a brand new property. However, these houses sometimes come with unpleasant surprises and issues that owners of newer homes won't...
Pros and Cons of Buying an Older Home
When purchasing a home, there are many factors like location, size, and amenities. Age is another critical factor to consider, as there are distinct differences between older and newer homes. Understanding the pros and cons of buying an older home can help you make...
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Rhode Island & Massachusetts
We’re able to offer inspection services for older and historic homes throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Depending on exact location, travel fees may apply.
Weekend appointments are available by request.