CANSPEC Homeservices

Here are some of the pictures we have taken at actual home inspections.
A brief description has been included to explain the picture as the issue
may not be obvious at first glance.

	The sagging siding on this garage back wall suggest significant structural movement has taken place. A qualified specialist will be needed to determine the extent of the problem and suggests possible remedies. Correction could be quite costly.
	This foundation pier block that is sideways (ribs/holes visible) can burst and fail without notice. A block is strongest when the solid edge is visible at the side. This is a safety concern that should be corrected immediately. The pier in the background has its blocks aligned correctly.
	This rotting wooden support post is a notable structural item to be replaced. It should be replaced in the very near future as it will simply rot to the point where it surrenders its load as it deteriorates. As it does this, the floor and walls above it will settle relatively quickly, usually accompanied with notable plaster cracking in the walls. It can get expensive in a short period of time.
	This picture is of a support post under a beam intersection in a new home. The post is not level and is not properly secured to the beam it supports. The post needs to be centered and the metal straps need to be hammered into place and then the post should be tack welded so that it cannot move.
	This picture is looking up at a basement ceiling. The floor joist has been cut by the heating contractor on this NEW home. By cutting the joist, the heating contractor has removed about 80% of its load carrying capacity. There is a couch above it in the family room. What do you think could happen at the next family get together?
	This picture is of a few floor joists cut or notched to allow a gas line to be installed. Cutting or notching joists like this dramatically reduces their safe load carrying capacity. It is ok to drill a hole in the center of the joists to pass the gas line, but when they are cut at the edge, they are dramatically weakened. This was done on a NEW home.
	This is a picture of a masonry block support pillar in a crawlspace. The problem is that the top block has been inserted on its side. The strength of a masonry block lies in its up and down orientation. Putting a block in sideways leaves the home vulnerable to considerable damage if it (the sideways block) suddenly collapses under the load.

Have a question or concern? We would be glad to speak with you.
Newmarket: 905-830-1518 » Toronto: 416-993-2954 » Toll Free: 1-877-CANSPEC (226-7732)