When you find a home you love, an older roof can raise some understandable questions. How much life does it have left? Has it been maintained? Are there signs of leaks or previous damage? While the age of a roof is important, it does not tell the entire story. A professional home inspection can give… Read More
Most homeowners think about their roof as the first line of defense against rain, wind, and snow. While that’s certainly true, the space beneath the roof plays an equally important role in keeping the entire system in good condition. Proper attic ventilation allows fresh air to move through the attic while carrying excess heat and… Read More
Many homeowners are excited to start renovation projects that update an older home’s appearance, improve functionality, or increase property value. Whether you are remodeling a kitchen, replacing windows, or opening walls, there is one important step that should happen before construction begins: lead testing. If your home was built before 1978, there is a possibility… Read More
It is easy to assume that a brand-new home does not need an inspection. Everything looks clean, modern, and untouched, so what could possibly go wrong? The truth is that new construction homes can have just as many issues as older properties, they are just different in nature. A home inspection is not just about… Read More
Most homeowners never expect water damage to start quietly. They imagine burst pipes or roof leaks that make an obvious mess. Moisture intrusion usually begins slowly and out of sight. A tiny opening around a window, a hairline foundation crack, or a small plumbing drip can introduce enough water to cause long term damage. By… Read More
Selling a home in Chicago is no longer as simple as taking photos, putting up a sign, and waiting for offers. Buyers are more informed, the housing stock is older, and competition in popular neighborhoods like Logan Square, Avondale, and Edgewater is stronger than ever. Because of this, more sellers are choosing to schedule a… Read More
Anyone who lives in Chicago knows how unpredictable the weather can be. One day it’s freezing, the next it’s melting, and then it’s freezing again. While most people think about how this affects their commute or their pipes, few realize just how much this constant freezing and thawing can damage a home’s foundation. At First… Read More
Chicago’s winters and unpredictable spring thaws can be tough on a home. The constant freezing and warming causes building materials to expand and contract. Over time, that movement creates stress points throughout your home’s protective barrier, often called the building envelope. This includes siding, masonry, windows, roofing, and insulation. Knowing how the freeze-thaw cycle impacts… Read More
Summers in Chicago can be beautiful—but they’re also incredibly humid. And while we all know to brace ourselves for heatwaves and thunderstorms, there’s one thing many homeowners forget to watch out for: mold. That sticky, muggy summer air doesn’t just make us uncomfortable—it creates a prime environment for mold to thrive inside homes. If you’ve… Read More
Mold is not just a nuisance; it can pose serious health risks and lead to costly damage if not managed properly. Especially in a climate like Chicago’s, where humidity and temperature fluctuations are common, mold prevention is crucial. Luckily, a few simple strategies can keep your home mold-free and ensure a healthy environment for you… Read More
Once widely used in construction materials for its fire resistance and insulation properties, asbestos was later found to pose serious health risks. Today, asbestos inspections are a crucial step in maintaining the safety and value of older properties, particularly those built before the 1980s. At First Choice Inspectors, we specialize in detecting asbestos and ensuring… Read More
Mold can grow in your home without you noticing, which is why it can be extremely important for a home inspector like First Choice Inspectors to come out and run a test. If you suspect mold growth in your home, we advise you to have it removed as soon as possible for the safety of… Read More