Introduction
Electrical panels are an essential component of every building, responsible for distributing power to various circuits throughout the structure. Inside these panels, circuit breakers act as crucial safety devices, protecting the electrical system from overloads and short circuits. However, one common issue that often arises is double tapped breakers. In this blog post, we will delve into what double tapped breakers are, the risks they pose, and the proper solutions to address this problem.

What are Double Tapped Breakers?
A double tapped breaker, also known as a double-lugged or twin breaker, occurs when two electrical wires are connected to the same circuit breaker terminal. Instead of each wire having its dedicated slot, they share the same connection point. This issue might arise due to several reasons, such as an inexperienced electrician's mistake or an attempt to accommodate additional circuits without upgrading the electrical panel.

Causes of Double Tapped Breakers

1. DIY Electrical Work: Homeowners or inexperienced individuals might attempt to add new circuits or perform electrical modifications without proper knowledge and training, leading to improper wiring connections.
2. Insufficient Panel Space: Sometimes, the need for additional circuits arises, but the electrical panel lacks enough slots to accommodate new breakers. This can tempt people to double tap existing breakers, which is unsafe and against electrical code regulations.

Risks of Double Tapped Breakers

1. Overheating: Double tapping can lead to poor electrical connections, resulting in increased resistance at the terminal. This resistance generates heat during electrical current flow, potentially causing the wires to overheat and leading to fire hazards.
2. Circuit Failure: The improper connection may lead to an intermittent circuit or a complete loss of power in the affected circuits.
3. Code Violations: Electrical codes strictly prohibit double tapped breakers due to the safety risks they pose. A property with such issues may not pass inspection during a sale, affecting its resale value.
4. Damage to Appliances and Electronics: Inconsistent power supply caused by double tapped breakers can damage sensitive electronic devices and appliances, resulting in costly replacements or repairs.

Solutions and Prevention

1. Consult a Professional Electrician: If you suspect double tapped breakers in your electrical panel, it's crucial to hire a licensed and experienced electrician to inspect and rectify the issue. Attempting to fix it yourself may lead to further complications or safety hazards.
2. Electrical Panel Upgrade: If your panel lacks sufficient space for additional circuits, consult an electrician about upgrading to a larger panel to accommodate your needs safely.
3. Regular Electrical Inspections: Schedule regular electrical inspections by professionals to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into significant problems.

Conclusion
Double tapped breakers are a common but dangerous issue that can compromise the safety and functionality of your electrical system. Understanding the causes, risks, and appropriate solutions is vital in maintaining a secure and reliable electrical infrastructure in your home or building. Always prioritize the expertise of professional electricians and adhere to electrical codes to ensure a safe and efficient electrical setup.

Welcome to InsideOut Inspections, where we take pride in providing home inspections that go above and beyond to build bridges of trust with our clients. Buying or selling a home is a significant investment, and we understand the importance of ensuring your peace of mind throughout the process. That's why we go the extra mile to deliver comprehensive, detailed, and exceptional inspections that exceed expectations.

1. Unveiling the Full Picture: At InsideOut Inspections, we believe in leaving no stone unturned. Our experienced and certified inspectors meticulously examine every aspect of a home, from the foundation to the roof, and everything in between. We provide a comprehensive report that delves into the condition of the property, highlighting both minor concerns and major issues. By providing a clear and accurate assessment, we empower you to make informed decisions about your investment.
   
2. Attention to Detail: We understand that a thorough inspection requires keen attention to detail. Our inspectors possess a sharp eye for identifying potential problems that may be invisible to the untrained eye. Whether it's detecting signs of water damage, electrical issues, or structural weaknesses, we scrutinize every nook and cranny to ensure your safety and satisfaction. Our commitment to excellence means that we never cut corners when it comes to inspections.
   
3. Going Above and Beyond Industry Standards: InsideOut Inspections holds itself to the highest standards in the industry. We not only comply with local regulations but also strive to exceed them. Our inspectors undergo regular training and stay up-to-date with the latest practices and technologies. By leveraging state-of-the-art tools and techniques, we provide a level of service that sets us apart. When you choose InsideOut Inspections, you can rest assured that you are receiving the most comprehensive and advanced inspection available.
   
4. Clear Communication and Personalized Service: We believe that building bridges of trust starts with effective communication. Our inspectors take the time to explain their findings in a clear and understandable manner. We encourage you to accompany us during the inspection process, asking questions and addressing any concerns you may have. Our goal is not only to inspect the home but also to educate you about its condition, empowering you to make informed decisions.
   
5. Timeliness and Reliability: We understand that time is of the essence, especially when it comes to real estate transactions. That's why we prioritize efficiency without compromising the quality of our inspections. InsideOut Inspections works diligently to provide timely reports, ensuring that you have the information you need within the expected timeframe. Our reliability and commitment to deadlines set us apart in the industry.
   

At InsideOut Inspections, we take great pride in our commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service. Our goal is to build bridges of trust with our clients by delivering home inspections that exceed expectations. When it comes to your investment, trust the experts at InsideOut Inspections to provide you with a thorough, accurate, and insightful evaluation. Contact us today to experience the InsideOut difference.

Introduction
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A home inspection is a critical step in the home buying process, providing valuable insights into the condition of a property. It helps identify potential issues, safety concerns, and necessary repairs. To make the most of your home inspection, it's important to ask the right questions. In this blog post, we will explore essential questions to ask during your home inspection to ensure a thorough understanding of the property's condition.
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• What is the overall condition of the property?

Start by asking the inspector about the overall condition of the property. This question will give you a general idea of any significant issues that may be present. It provides an opportunity for the inspector to highlight any red flags or areas that require immediate attention.

• ​Are there any safety concerns?

Safety should be a top priority when assessing a property. Ask the inspector about any safety concerns they have identified during the inspection. This could include issues such as electrical hazards, mold, structural instability, or fire hazards. Understanding these risks allows you to take appropriate measures to address them.

• Are there any major structural issues?

The structural integrity of a home is crucial for its long-term stability. Inquire about any major structural issues found during the inspection. This could include problems with the foundation, load-bearing walls, or roof structure. Understanding the extent of these issues will help you make informed decisions about repairs or negotiating with the seller.

• What is the condition of the electrical system?

The electrical system is an essential component of any home. Ask the inspector about the condition of the electrical wiring, outlets, and the main electrical panel. Inquire about the system's capacity and whether any upgrades or repairs are necessary to meet current safety standards.

• How is the plumbing system?

Plumbing issues can lead to significant expenses and inconvenience. Ask the inspector about the condition of the plumbing system, including the pipes, fixtures, and water pressure. Inquire about the age and material of the pipes and whether there are any signs of leaks or drainage problems.

• Is there evidence of water damage or moisture issues?

Water damage and moisture-related problems can cause extensive damage to a home and lead to mold growth. Ask the inspector if there are any signs of water damage, such as stains, dampness, or musty odors. Inquire about the condition of the roof, gutters, and the presence of adequate insulation and ventilation.

• Have there been any previous repairs or renovations?

Understanding the history of repairs and renovations can provide insight into the property's maintenance and potential ongoing issues. Ask the inspector if there is evidence of past repairs and whether they were done professionally. Inquire about any renovations and whether they were properly permitted and completed to code.

• Are there any potential pest or termite issues?

Pest infestations, particularly termites, can cause extensive damage to a property. Ask the inspector if they have noticed any signs of pests or termites during the inspection. Inquire about potential remedies or further inspections required to assess the severity of the problem.

Conclusion

Asking the right questions during your home inspection is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the property's condition. By addressing topics such as overall condition, safety concerns, structural issues, electrical and plumbing systems, water damage, previous repairs, and potential pest issues, you can make informed decisions regarding the purchase and negotiate any necessary repairs. Remember, a thorough home inspection empowers you as a buyer to ensure the long-term value and safety of your investment.

Hello, My name is Alex and I have been a home inspector since 2012. I have seen countless homes in various conditions. From newly built homes to older homes that have been lived in for decades, every home has its own unique characteristics. However, one thing remains constant – the importance of getting a yearly home inspection. Home inspections are an essential part of homeownership. They provide an in-depth assessment of the condition of a home, identifying potential issues and providing recommendations for repairs or improvements. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting a yearly home inspection:
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1. Discover hidden issues Many issues in a home are not visible to the naked eye. A home inspector has the expertise and tools to identify hidden issues such as leaks, faulty wiring, or structural problems. Getting a yearly home inspection can help you catch these issues early on before they turn into costly repairs.
2. Ensure safety A home inspection can identify safety hazards in a home such as carbon monoxide leaks, radon gas, or faulty electrical systems. By getting a yearly home inspection, you can ensure that your home is safe for you and your family.
3. Prevent future problems A home inspector can identify potential problems that may arise in the future such as a leaking roof or a failing HVAC system. By catching these issues early, you can prevent them from turning into larger, more expensive problems down the line.
4. Save money Getting a yearly home inspection may seem like an additional expense, but it can actually save you money in the long run. By identifying issues early on, you can address them before they turn into costly repairs. Additionally, a home inspection can help you identify areas of your home that may be costing you money such as inefficient insulation or outdated appliances.
5. Peace of mind Finally, getting a yearly home inspection can provide peace of mind. Knowing that your home is safe and in good condition can alleviate stress and worry. It can also help you plan for future repairs or improvements, giving you a sense of control over your home.

In conclusion, getting a yearly home inspection is a wise investment for any homeowner. It can help you identify hidden issues, ensure safety, prevent future problems, save money, and provide peace of mind. As a home inspector, I highly recommend scheduling a yearly home inspection to assess the condition of your home.

 Let’s talk counter tops.
One of the biggest selling points for a home tends to be the kitchen. Kitchens can run up a very high bill when remodeling and most do not have the extra funds to put towards a full remodel after shelling out the money to purchase a new home. If you are thinking about replacing countertops do your research first! Find out what’s in style, the cost, and care.
 
We chose a few popular countertop styles and researched the durability, care, and price for each one to help with your decision if considering replacing counters. You will find that Quartz prices and ratings are almost apples to apples. The only true difference between the two materials is man-made material vs natural. Think of Quartz as a lab created diamond and Granite a genuine diamond without the significant price difference.
 
Quartz
Consumer Reports Rated 84
Man-Made
Price: Ranges from $50-90 per square foot + installation costs
Stains: 4/5
Cutting: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Abrasion: 2/5
Cleaning: Regular cleaning should be done with mild soap and a soft cloth. Quartz countertops are non-porous which makes them resistant to bacteria and stains however, bleach can damage the surface or cause permanent discoloration.
 
Granite
Consumer Reports Rated 81
Natural Stone
Price: $50-90 per square foot + installation costs
Stains: 4/5
Cutting: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Abrasion: 5/5
Impact: 2/5
Cleaning: Warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly or use a 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. Windex, bleach, vinegar, or any other acidic substances will dull the granite and weaken the sealant.
 
Concrete
Consumer Reports Rated 40
Price: $25-75 per square foot + installation
Stains: 5/5
Cutting: 1/5
Heat: 2/5
Abrasion: 3/5
Impact: 1/5
Cleaning: Concrete is naturally porous and should always be sealed to protect from scratches, stains, and absorption. Cleaning with regular soap and water should be sufficient and nothing more abrasive than a dish sponge is needed. Penetrating Sealer preferred over topical sealer.
 
Butcher Block (Varnished)
Consumer Reports Rated 37
Price: $20-60 per square foot + installation
Stains: 5/5
Cutting: 1/5
Heat: 1/5
Abrasion: 1/5
Impact: 1/5
Cleaning: Spray white vinegar on the surface of wood counters and let it sit for several minutes. Rinse off with clean sponge or damp rag. 

Keep these things in mind when designing your Pinterest-worthy Kitchens!

Purchasing a new construction home comes with a lot of advantages that are usually worth the higher price tag to a buyer. Unfortunately, there tends to be a misconception surrounding new construction homes and whether or not they need an inspection. While new construction homes do tend to have fewer issues than older homes, this does not guarantee that a home is without flaws or safety defects. Just like having a research paper peer-reviewed, there are always errors that come to light with a fresh set of eyes. 

One of the biggest issues in new construction homes is a contractor's use of sub-contractors. When hiring multiple outside contractors to work on different components of the home, some of the smaller items could be looked over, rushed, or forgotten all-together. ​For instance, all of the photos below were taken at an inspection of a new construction home. If a homeowner found all of these issues after moving into their new home and didn't obtain a home warranty, the repairs alone could cost upwards of $1,000. 

Some of these specific issues are small cosmetic mistakes that won't cause much damage however, left untreated the issues with the fascia and loose siding could lead to excess water damage over time and cause thousands of dollars in repairs.

If an builder does include a 3rd party quality inspection in the purchase price of your home, looking into additional ancillary inspections could also protect you and your investment in the long run. For instance, we inspected a new construction home recently and our client decided to add on a sewer scope inspection. At some point during the build of their new home, someone crushed their sewer line. Sewer line replacement can cost anywhere from $6,000-$12,000 and in most cases, is not covered under home warranties or common homeowners insurance policies. 

Radon is another Inspection that should still be purchased regardless of the age of a home. Radon is a Radioactive gas that comes up from the ground and can enter a house in many different ways. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and should be tested for in order to install a mitigation system if needed. Radon does not discriminate between new and old homes.
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This blog is in no way meant to tear down builders or their work however, it is meant to equip clients and their realtors with more information. 

Have you used, or been told to use RID-X for septic maintenance? 

Additives like RID-X or yeast can actually cause you more money and headache than not using anything. RID-X contains much stronger enzymes than the natural bacteria that is found in a healthy septic system. Breaking down solids at a much more rapid rate actually allows them to travel out to your drain field. This will lead to your drain field becoming clogged and potentially even needing to be replaced, and the average septic system replacement cost could set you back anywhere from $8,000 - $25,000!

How can you maintain a healthy septic system?

• Avoid adding harsh chemicals like bleach, antifreeze, and pesticides to your system that could destroy the natural bacteria
• Never flush inorganic materials like dental floss, feminine hygiene products, kitty litter, cigarette butts, or paper towels
• Tanks should be pumped, on average, every 3 years depending on the size of the tank and the home's water usage
• Get a septic inspection to ensure your system is working correctly and there are no clogs or broken pipes leading to your drain field

Be aware of everything you are putting down your sinks and NEVER treat your toilets or sinks like
a garbage can.

During a real estate transaction you will most likely have your home inspected if you are selling. 
There are a few different ways sellers can approach the inspection process. 

1. Pre-Inspections can be done prior to listing your home. This will give you an idea of what could be flagged later on in the transaction and give you a chance to fix any issues before even listing the home. 
2. Most commonly, buyers will submit an offer on your home stating it is "contingent upon home inspection". This would mean an inspection would be completed on your home after an accepted offer, but before moving forward any further in the process. 
3. You could list your home for sale "as is". This option is usually sold for a fair cash price and could be well below the market value. This option really only makes sense in investment properties.

InsideOut offers Pre-Inspection certifications and they are a huge selling point for any listing. If you know you are entering into a hot market and want your home to move quickly, this option will absolutely help. When you hire InsideOut for a pre-inspection we will come out and preform and inspection just as we would if we were hired by the buyer. We will provide you with a very detailed report and make sure to flag and health and safety issues that could be a deal-breaker when selling your home. After issuing you the completed inspection report InsideOut will return to the residence to inspect that any issues that were flagged during our initial inspection were corrected. Once everything has been completed we will put a Certified Pre-Inspection sign in your front yard right next to your for sale sign. 

If your buyer chooses us for their home inspection they become our customer however, that does not mean that we are not on the same team. We compiled a list of 10 ways that you as the seller can help us and yourselves when entering into the inspection period on your home.  These common items are quick/easy fixes that can allow our time at your home to be as quick and efficient as possible. Taking these 10 steps will also allow provide less opportunity for items to be flagged in your inspection. Please find the printable 10 step form attached below!