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Start Summer Strong: Watch out for a Leaky Roof

Posted on June 2, 2025 by - News

Pillar To Post blog post
PTP

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Home inspector on a ladder inspecting a roof and eaves

SPOTLIGHT:

Start Summer Strong:
Watch out for a Leaky Roof

Summer is nearly here and while the warmer weather is a welcome change, it’s also the perfect time to tackle home maintenance projects that may have been sidelined during the colder months. One area that deserves special attention? Your roof.

Winter storms, spring showers, and high winds can all take a toll on your roof, and now that the weather is more cooperative, summer offers the ideal window to check for signs of damage. Even a small leak can lead to big problems if ignored, including mold, interior water damage, and long-term structural issues. Staying ahead of potential trouble now can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Why Leaks Happen

Roof leaks aren’t always the result of age alone. One of the leading culprits is faulty installation, which can take years to show up. By the time a leak becomes visible, significant damage may already have occurred. That’s why it’s important to have any installation or repairs done by a qualified roofing contractor.

Storm-related damage is another common cause – high winds and heavy rains can compromise shingles and flashing. Flashing, which seals joints around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys, is especially prone to wear and tear. If it fails, water can seep into the home, often going unnoticed until the damage is extensive.

In colder climates, issues like ice from winter months may have left behind hidden damage that only reveals itself once summer rainstorms roll in.

Watch for Warning Signs Indoors

Some leaks start from inside the home. Warm air leaking into the attic or condensation from HVAC ducts, can create moisture that damages roof decking from the inside out. This hidden moisture can eventually lead to rot, mold, and even structural deterioration.

It’s Time for a Roof Check

Now that the days are longer and the weather is more predictable, summer is a great time to schedule a roof inspection. Whether you're repairing storm damage, checking for wear after the winter, or simply staying ahead of potential issues, inspecting your roof in the summer can help you avoid major disruptions later in the year.

Enjoy the season with peace of mind by making roof maintenance part of your summer checklist. Addressing issues now – before they escalate – will help protect your home and preserve its value through every season ahead.

Are You Protected When Referring a Home Inspector?

When you refer Pillar To Post, you are.

All our home inspectors carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, offering protection not just for your clients—but for you, too. Unlike many independent inspectors, we ensure every referral is backed by coverage that helps shield you from legal risk.

If an inspector without E&O coverage is involved in a claim, you could be included simply for making the referral. With Pillar To Post, you can refer with confidence, knowing you’re legally protected.

DO YOUR CLIENTS NEED A HOME INSPECTION? YES!

infographic on why your clients need a home inspection
Download Here

HERE FOR YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS

  • Choice of Home Inspection Packages
  • Added inspection services available
  • Save time and book online
  • Get a Market Ready inspection for your listings
  • E&O insured for your peace of mind
Home owner couple in the garage with home inspector pointing out findings

Pillar To Post Newsletter, Vol. 25, No. 3

Posted on May 12, 2025 by - News, Post Notes

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postnotes

VOLUME 25, NO. 3

SMART LIVING

Small Updates Today,
Big Value Tomorrow

Whether you’re staying put or planning to sell in the future, a little forward thinking can go a long way. Some of the smartest home improvements aren’t the flashiest—they’re the ones that quietly build value over time.

Here are some low-stress, high-impact updates that homeowners can do today to protect and even boost their future resale value. It’s also a great resource for Realtors to pass along to clients—especially those who may not be ready to list now but want to be smart about their property.

Happy father with daughter on his shoulders as she paints the wall with yellow paint
  • Replacing dated light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and faucets with modern finishes can instantly freshen a space for a fraction of the cost of a full renovation. It’s an easy weekend project that elevates your space.
  • A fresh coat of light, neutral paint (think soft grays, warm whites, or greige) can make rooms feel bigger, brighter, and more inviting. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to update your home—and appeal to the widest range of future home buyers.
  • Today’s buyers love tech. Installing a smart thermostat, video doorbell, or smart locks adds everyday convenience while showing your home is keeping up with modern trends. Many of these devices also increase energy efficiency and home security—making them great selling points.
  • Keep up with the little things. We’re talking sticky doors, chipped tile, cracked outlet covers—small issues signal neglect to a potential buyer. Taking care of them now avoids a long repair list later and tells buyers (and inspectors) the home has been well cared for.
  • Plan ahead: one small-to-medium project per year can be easier to manage financially and mentally. Whether it’s redoing the front landscaping, updating flooring, or modernizing a bathroom, these changes can significantly boost resale value.

These small steps help you enjoy your home now, while laying the foundation for a smoother, more profitable sale down the road. Think of it as future-proofing your investment!

SEASONAL SENSE

Get Ready for Outdoor Season

As warmer weather approaches, it’s time to get your outdoor spaces ready for summer enjoyment. Whether you’re planning to relax, entertain, or simply enjoy the fresh air, a little prep now will help ensure your patio, deck, or garden is in top shape.

Start by giving everything a good cleaning. A power wash can remove dirt and grime from decks, patios, and furniture, making your space feel refreshed. While cleaning, check for any small repairs. Things like loose boards or cracked pavers can become safety hazards if left unchecked.

FEATURE FOCUS

Why Get a Market Ready Inspection?

A Market Ready (pre-listing) home inspection can give your listings a clear advantage. Here are the top benefits we hear about from agents and homeowners:

  • Gives sellers the opportunity to make recommended repairs
  • Homes in better condition sell for more
  • Helps with setting pricing
  • Great marketing tool
  • Sellers have confidence they’re getting the best price

Next, consider updating your outdoor furniture. If cushions are faded or furniture is worn, it’s easy to refresh with new pieces or a coat of outdoor paint. Adding some throw pillows or an outdoor rug can instantly make the space feel cozy and inviting.

Finally, don’t forget the lighting! Solar lights, lanterns, or string lights can create a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for evening gatherings or quiet nights outside.

A little prep now means more time enjoying your outdoor space all summer long. Make the most of the season with a clean, comfortable, and well-maintained space!

view of a the front porch of a beautiful white house with a maroon colored door
  • Avoid surprises from a buyer’s inspection
  • Use PTPFloorPlan in the MLS listing
  • Get to closings faster

With a Market Ready inspection in hand you can market your listing with greater confidence about its condition. Schedule a Pillar To Post home inspection for your next listing!

Here’s What Home Buyers Are Saying About
Pillar To Post Home Inspectors

“10/10 experience with Pillar To Post. We were impressed by how much care went into not just the inspection itself, but the way it was presented afterward. The Pillar To Post HomePage made it easy to access everything in one place – including a detailed floor plan, 360° views of the home, attic crawlspace photos, appliance documentation, and more. It really gave us a full picture of the home, and their tools made reviewing and sharing the findings simple. Highly recommend them to anyone looking for a modern, transparent, and detail-oriented inspection team.”

Man and woman looking over their home inspection report on a tablet

“Easy to book appointment, thorough inspection, great communication, wonderful overall experience!”

“The items are put together very well and easily navigated through the online portal. I enjoyed the home inspector’s work and now being able to review everything whenever I need!”

Home inspector showing a couple the home inspection results on a tablet.

“Rarely do service companies provide service like this. What a pleasant interaction I had with my inspector! He took the time to explain the inspection results thoroughly, answered my questions, and was just a pleasure to have around. I would highly recommend Pillar To Post!”

“They were professional, thorough, and incredibly knowledgeable. They took the time to explain their findings clearly and made sure we understood every detail. The inspection report was well-organized and delivered promptly. Thanks to their expertise, we feel confident and well-informed moving forward. Highly recommend for anyone in need of a top-notch home inspection!”

home inspector and real estate agent greeting a couple outside a home

Experience the Pillar To Post Difference. Book a home inspection online today!

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

Posted on April 28, 2025 by - News

PTP

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Happy couple sitting on a couch holding mugs, smiling at each other

SPOTLIGHT:

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

Preparing for a home inspection is important for sellers to ensure the process goes smoothly and to avoid any surprises that could affect the sale. Sellers can use these guidelines to ensure their home is ready for its close-up. Here's a checklist of things a seller should do to get their home ready for an inspection:

  1. Make sure all utilities are on: Ensure all utilities (water, gas, electricity) are turned on. Your home inspector will need these on to check systems like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.
  2. Clear access to key areas: Make sure your basement, attic, and crawl spaces are accessible, and items like the water heater and electrical panel are not blocked by storage or other items.
  3. Address small repairs: Fix any minor repairs that could cause red flags. This includes ensuring all lightbulbs are working, leaky faucets and fixtures, grout around tubs and showers, and caulking around windows and exterior doors.
  4. Test systems prior: Testing major systems (heating, plumbing, electrical, etc.), smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and appliances (dishwasher, oven, dryer, etc.) to make sure they are working properly.
  5. Limit your presence: While it’s not necessary, many sellers choose to leave the home during the inspection to allow the inspector to do their job without distractions. If you decide to stay, remain respectful of the inspector’s work.
  6. Keep pets away: If possible, remove pets from the home or crate them for safety.
  7. Secure personal items: Store medications, valuables, or private documents securely and out of sight.
  8. Stay flexible with timing: Sometimes a home inspection can take longer than expected, depending on the size of the home and systems involved. Be ready for the possibility that your inspector may need additional time to complete a thorough inspection. 

Book Online Today!

HOW MUCH WILL THESE FIXES COST?

Close up of hands installing a lock on a door

Your client can request a third-party estimate to repair items called out in their Pillar To Post home inspection. PTPEstimates is included in their home inspection and is only a click away from our partners at BOSSCAT Home Services.

  • Accessible via their Pillar To Post HomePage personal dashboard
  • Repair cost estimates are based on local costs
  • Estimate is provided within approximately 1 business day
  • Your client can use the information to make repairs now or plan for them to be done over time

HOW PILLAR TO POST CAN HELP YOU

Download Here

HERE FOR YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS

  • Choice of Home Inspection Packages
  • Added inspection services available
  • Save time and book online
  • Get a Market Ready inspection for your listings
  • E&O insured for your peace of mind
Home Inspector showing a married couple their home inspection results on a tablet

April is National Home Inspection Month

Posted on March 31, 2025 by - News

Home inspector looking over the external foundation of a home
PTP

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Home inspector looking over the external foundation of a home

SPOTLIGHT:

April is National Home Inspection Month

April marks National Home Inspection Month, a time to highlight the importance of professional home inspections for buyers, sellers, and homeowners alike. Whether your clients are buying or selling a home, a trusted inspection can make all the difference. This month is the perfect time to educate your clients on why inspections matter, and how they can prevent costly surprises down the road.

For Buyers:

  • Uncover hidden issues: Structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC problems aren’t always visible
  • Avoid unexpected expenses: Knowing about necessary repairs before closing helps with budgeting
  • More negotiation power: Buyers can request repairs or price adjustments based on the report
  • Gain peace of mind: A thorough inspection ensures they’re making a sound investment

For Sellers:

  • Eliminate unexpected issues: Addressing problems before listing helps ensure a smoother sale with no last-minute surprises
  • Attract serious buyers: A Market Ready (pre-listing) inspection builds trust and can lead to quicker offers
  • Increase sale price: Homes with a clean inspection report may sell at a better price
  • Get to closings faster: With fewer contingencies, transactions are less likely to stall

Encourage your clients to invest in a home inspection this April – it’s a small step that can make a big difference in their real estate journey! 

Book Online Today!

EXPERIENCE PTP360

Screenshot of the PTP360 interactive 360 degree visual inspection summary


PTP360 is our interactive 360° Visual Inspection Summary, included with all Pillar To Post Home Inspections.* PTP360 is an engaging tool that help buyers get to know the home, enabling them to make a confident home ownership decision.

  • View key findings from the inspection from within the PTP360 Inspection Summary
  • Buyers can revisit the home virtually from a smartphone, tablet or desktop
  • Share a link to PTP360 with family and friends
  • Delivered within 24 hours of the home inspection

WHY GET A HOME INSPECTION?

Infographic about why you need a home inspection
Download Here

HERE FOR YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS

  • Choice of Home Inspection Packages
  • Added inspection services available
  • Easy scheduling – call us or book online
  • Buyer, seller, and post-sale inspections available
  • E&O insured for your peace of mind
Inspector showing couple inspection results on a tablet