When preparing to list a home, many home buyers have the most critical and expensive pieces of the property inspected—the roof, the chimney, the foundation and more. However, a major storm can completely change the safety of these essential parts of a home. It’s better to fix problems before you have an offer and you’re sitting at a table with a home inspection report.

Roof and Exterior Siding

Even if you have durable slate roofing, a great deal of damage can be done in a short period of time. Have the roof inspected for missing or broken shingles, holes, dents and any other damage. The inspector can notify the homeowner of what repairs need to be completed, and you can resume showing the home without worry. Exterior siding should also be inspected for dents, nicks, missing panels and damage. The siding is a critical part of protecting the house and maintaining curb appeal, so repairs should not be put off.

Attic, Crawlspaces and Basement

A small amount of water accumulation can turn into water damage. If left untreated, water damage can rapidly turn into mold growth and infestation in need of costly remediation. Homeowners should have their home re-inspected for the presence of water damage and mold after any storm where water enters the home or flooding occurs.

You Could Be Liable

As a realtor, it is critical to protect your business when selling a home that has potential storm damage. To protect your business and reputation, you should:

• Always ask your sellers about storm damage and repairs as a result. For example, has the home flooded? Was electrical wiring in the flooded area of the home inspected? Was there mold testing completed? Was mold remediation done?
• Know how to spot telltale signs of damage, like missing slate shingles, a damaged chimney or missing siding. Other signs of storm damage include ceiling discoloration, cracks in walls, dark patches on the floor or musty smells. If you see damage, you should ask your seller to document all details.
• Know your responsibility about disclosure. Have your seller complete disclosure forms to reduce your liability.

Roof Inspections from Clean Sweep Maryland

Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111 for professional chimney sweep, slate roofing and duct cleaning services designed to keep all of your listed properties clean and safe for sellers and buyers. If you have a prospective home buyer or home seller in need of a slate roof inspection or repairs, we are here to help.