Inspections

Diagnose Problem Areas

A thorough Först Consulting Group building pathology inspection seeks out both patent and latent defects through a variety of testing methods. We look for materials affected by environmental situations and the various mechanics involved with the structure of systems found within the building. Risk of future building failure is also taken into consideration.

Our in-depth knowledge of building codes and construction practices, combined with our wide range of certifications and use of advanced inspection technology aid in properly diagnosing the problem areas.

Building Pathology Inspection Includes:

Building pathologies leading to defects include: Design deficiencies, specification errors, material deficiencies, workmanship errors, environmental and external factors, maintenance and repair deficiencies, deterioration, improper use.

Issues to inspect include, but are not limited to: Building cracks, dampness or water, corrosion or mold, thermal efficiency, suspected construction or code compliance errors, occupant well being, noise problems.

Building pathology inspection is used for: Pre-sale inspection, liability and risk vs. stability, symptoms analysis, code compliance, workmanship issues,
forensic evidence, expert witness testimony.

Identify Construction Defects

Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous or untrained contractors and subcontractors, who either purposefully or inadvertently can cause a construction defect. They may attempt to cover up a construction error to save costs, hide a mistake or meet scheduled deadlines, while others may just not have the knowledge or experience to know their work is not acceptable. In other cases, it may be equipment or materials that fail.

Once a defect is suspected or pointed out, it is up to you to prove that an error has occurred. A contractor may argue the work was performed correctly, which can lead to a construction dispute, or potentially a legal claim if the dispute cannot be resolved.

Evidence to Resolve Disputes

Ordering a construction defect inspection will provide the evidence necessary to resolve a dispute with your contractor, or help you build a case with a construction law attorney to win in court.

At Först Consulting Group, we put a huge emphasis on keeping up to date with new and alternative building practices and products. We attend dozens of seminars, take numerous online courses and review hundreds of manufacturer specifications. We know what we’re looking for.

Inspect Behind the Walls

Many construction shortcuts or errors occur behind the walls, which is why it is in your best interest to obtain a pre-drywall inspection before the problems are sealed up and out of sight. This is the final time everything within the walls will be visible.

During the inspection, Först Consulting Group will inspect framing and electrical, plumbing and heating systems, looking for correct placement, code compliance, construction errors or deficiencies, and energy efficiency. We also inspect with reference to manufacturer installation requirements, which with today’s modern technology, can be complicated. Improper installation could result in system failure or a voided manufacturer’s warranty.

Items inspected include, but are not limited to:

• Framing; trusses, studs and joints
• Electrical systems; wiring
• Heating and cooling systems; ductwork
• Plumbing systems; piping; sprinkler systems
• Insulation
• Code compliance
• Installation requirements
• Foundation attachments

In-Depth Pre-Sale Inspection

Instead of waiting to see what the buyer’s home inspector finds, engage Först Consulting Group to perform a private in-depth pre-sale inspection of your home. This is especially important when you have performed your own improvements.

Först will:

• Check for code compliance
• Examine for construction issues
• Inspect HVAC and electrical systems, kitchen areas and fireplaces
• Search for items that could affect the sale of your home

Construction Expertise

Först Consulting Group is not your normal residential home inspector; rather, we’re experts in construction, having run our own construction company for many years before becoming construction consultants.

We perform a site walk-through that can take from one hour to several hours for a single room, and from several hours to several days for a whole-house inspection (depending on the size of the home) to uncover any and every potential issue.

Complete Reports Provided

Following our inspection, you will be provided with a highly-detailed report of our findings that will list what we found, and methods and estimated costs and materials lists for remediating remediating any issues discovered. With this in hand, the negotiating power is in your corner.

Potential Issues

Reliability and durability depend a lot on how the stucco was installed. Each layer must be applied correctly. Unfortunately, incorrect installation may not present itself until years later when symptoms arise. Water can permeate bad stucco or become trapped between layers or behind it, offering no way to escape or “breathe.” The water has no place to go except into interior walls, framing or finishes.

Stucco can present with a number of problems stemming from installation errors or water intrusion. They can include:

• Cracks
• Buckles, blistering and peeling
• Mold
• Contaminant stains
• Weeping stains beneath window exteriors

Inspection and Report

Först Consulting Group inspects stucco for correct installation, flashing, ventilation and drainage, along with seals around doors and windows using infrared detection with our thermal imaging cameras and digital probe moisture meters.

Following our inspection, Först provides a complete written report of your stucco’s performance, malfunctions, moisture intrusions, energy losses, and any structural damage, along with detailed pictures to document problem areas.