Category: News

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas produced by the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, oil, propane in devices including furnaces, water heaters and stoves. These appliances are designed to vent the CO to the outside, but improper installation, incomplete combustion of fuel, or blockages, leaks or cracks in venting systems can cause CO to reach harmful levels inside the home. Dangerously high levels of CO can lead to incapacitation or death, with victims sometimes never having been aware they were being poisoned.

Prevention and working alarms are key to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Install CO alarms and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper location.
• Don’t use a gas stove or oven to heat the home, even temporarily.
• Have all fuel-burning appliances professionally inspected annually, including gas stoves and ovens, gas, pellet or wood-burning fireplaces, furnaces and heaters, water heaters and gas clothes dryers.
• All such devices should be properly installed and vented to the outside.
• Never start a vehicle in a closed garage or idle the engine in the garage even if the overhead door is open.
• Gasoline-powered generators and charcoal grills must never be used indoors.
• If using a generator, it should not be placed near the home. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper and safe location.
• Learn what to do if the CO alarm activates. If anyone in the home experiences symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, everyone should leave immediately and seek medical attention. If no symptoms are felt, open doors and windows immediately and shut off all fuel-burning devices that may be potential sources of CO.

Keep your family safe and avoid an unnecessary tragedy.

Health Canada estimates that 1 in 14 homes in Canada has an elevated level of radon. Prolonged exposure to unsafe levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer; in fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Any home can have a radon problem – old or new homes, well-sealed or drafty homes, homes with or without basements. There is real risk in not knowing if a home has a high level of radon.

WHAT IS RADON?

Radon is a naturally occurring odourless, colourless, radioactive gas formed by the ongoing decay of uranium in soil, rocks, sediments, and even well or ground water. While radon that escapes into the atmosphere isn’t harmful, dangerously high concentrations can build up indoors, exposing occupants to possible health risks.

HOW DOES RADON GET INTO A HOME?

Radon can migrate into the home in several ways. Openings or cracks in basement walls, foundations or floors are common avenues. Sumps, basement drains, and spaces between gas or water fittings can also allow radon into the structure. Other entry points can include gaps in suspended floors and cavities within walls.

HOW CAN I MAKE SURE MY CLIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES AREN’T AT RISK?

Testing is the only way to measure radon levels. Your Pillar To Post Home Inspector will set up monitoring equipment and report on the results. If an elevated level of radon is detected, steps can be taken to reduce the concentration to or below acceptable levels inside virtually any home. Professional mitigation services can provide solutions for a home’s specific conditions.

Request radon testing when you book your next home inspection with Pillar To Post Home Inspectors.

The Ultimate Home Inspection has more for you and your clients!

Pillar To Post Home Inspection Packages have technology-led features that bring more information and engagement to the inspection itself and our industry-leading report. These innovative features save you time, get you to closings faster and have quickly become agent and client favorites.

Standard with every Home Inspection:

PTP360, Interactive 360° Visual Inspection Summary*

PTPEstimates, a third-party cost estimate for Inspection Summary items

Also included with our Premium and Prestige Packages:

PTPFloorPlan, a measured floor plan of the entire home

PTPHomeManual, the digital owner’s manual for the home

Technology coupled with deep knowledge allows us to provide an exceptional home inspection delivered within a seamless brand experience. This experience, and the people who deliver it, has made Pillar To Post North America’s largest home inspection company.

Learn how technology, innovation and exceptional service come together for the Ultimate Home Inspection.

Read More

*Where available. Not all services are offered by every office. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Tackle these recommended tasks now to ensure your home is in good shape for fall and winter, and help protect your investment, too.

HEATING AND COOLING

• Clean or replace furnace filters
• Lubricate fan and motor bearings (only where indicated)
• Vacuum dirt and dust from around the unit
• Have the system serviced prior to the start of the season

DOORS AND WINDOWS

• Inspect caulking for deterioration at the openings and joints between dissimilar materials (e.g., wood and masonry), especially at the top
• Check weather stripping and replace if necessary
• Remove screens if possible, clean and store in a dry place

FIREPLACE & CHIMNEY

• Have the fireplace and chimney professionally inspected
• Have chimney cleaned if needed
• Use binoculars to check chimney for loose, deteriorated or missing mortar or bricks
• Have gas fireplaces serviced

FOUNDATION AND EXTERIOR

• Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and other debris
• Check for moisture or leaks in crawlspace or basement
• Check grading for proper slope away from the foundation
• Inspect wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure
• Check brick and stucco surfaces for cracks

Keeping up on maintenance is key to preventing or minimizing damaging conditions that can worsen over time.