This is a question/check list for use by prospective
buyers of pre-owned log homes. Although it doesn't
take the place of a professional home inspection,
it can help to identify problems that may affect
the purchase.
How old is the home? What recent maintenance
or repairs have been done?
Who
was the original log home company and builder,
and is there a transferrable warranty that is
still valid?
How
often have the outside walls been cleaned and
stained? When was the last time? What products
were used? Who did the work?
Do
the logs show signs of decay, water damage,
or insect infestation, particularly near the
ground and behind shrubs?
Do
log walls seem straight and plumb? Are inside
corners square? Are corners tight?
Is
caulking good around windows and doors? Any
cracks or openings?
Are
rain gutters installed and do they seem to be
working properly?
How
long has the roof been in place and what is
the warranty period for the shingles?
If
metal roof, are there signs of rust and corrosion?
Are
there signs of roof leaks inside the house --
stains on ceiling or on walls near ceiling?
Has
the home been recently inspected for termites?
When?
Are
there excessive checks (cracks) in the logs?
Do any of the checks expose air to the inside
of the house?
Is
there evidence of excessive settling in the
log walls -- doors and windows that won't open,
cracks beween logs, kitchen cabinets that have
detached from the walls, stairs that don't properly
meet the second-story landing.
Are
inside log walls clean and well maintained?
Are
windows double or triple paned for best weather
protection?
Is
all stonework in good shape -- no loose stones
or crumbling mortar? Chimney? Foundation veneer?
Walkways? Patio stone?
If
there is a water well or septic system, are
they in good working order? When was the septic
last pumped? Is there good water pressure from
faucets?
Is
electrical and plumbing in good working order?
Lights? Fans? Toilets? Shower? Tub? Faucets?
How
old are the appliances? Any problems with them?
How
is the heating and cooling system? What are
the annual energy costs?
Is
there a security system and smoke detectors?
Do they work?
Does
the property have water drainage problems? Has
it ever been flooded? Is the basement dry?
Are
there dead trees on the property that threaten
the home or neighbors?
Are
the driveway and garage in good shape? Cracks
in pavement or garage floor? Garage doors work
properly?
Where
are the nearest schools, police, shopping, fast
food, gasoline station, and home improvement
store?
How
much are property taxes and homeowner fees,
if any?
Is
there a fire station and hydrant nearby? What
are annual insurance costs?
Who
provides garbage pickup? TV service? Phone?
Internet?
How old is the home? What recent maintenance
or repairs have been done?