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Ever wondered if that “finished” project is actually finished right? We unpack a homeowner’s renovation that looked fine from the sofa but fell apart under closer inspection: a deck ledger bolted into rotten wood, sliding doors with a one-inch gap and nonfunctional locks, and siding so loose the J channel could be moved inches by hand. It’s a case study in why independent inspections—before you release the final payment—can save you thousands and protect your home from moisture, drafts, and long-term structural problems.

We walk through smart timing for maintenance inspections, including pairing an every-two-years radon retest with a targeted moisture inspection. Not all permits are required everywhere, but contractor behavior is a tell: if someone panics when permits are mentioned, that’s a signal to slow down and verify. In this story, the roof was actually done well by a subcontractor, yet warranty expectations were mismatched because the product wasn’t the 50-year shingle the owner thought. Documentation matters. Keep invoices, product data, and warranty paperwork for roofs, windows, doors, and HVAC.

We also dig into the dangers of missing labels and scratched-off serial numbers, which can void warranties and raise serious questions about sourcing. For new construction, a pre-drywall inspection is essential; once walls close, you can’t see wire protection, pipe clearances, or window flashing that keep water and electricity where they belong. Our goal is simple: celebrate what’s right, clearly flag what’s wrong, and give you a practical checklist to hold contractors to professional standards.

If you found this helpful, follow the show, share it with a homeowner who’s mid-renovation, and leave a quick review to help others find these tips. Got a renovation red flag we should cover next? Send us your story.

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To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Three-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)

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