In this Tempe townhome community, construction shortcuts are catching up fast, especially on the roofs and foundations. Here’s what I found, and the warning signs anyone can spot from the street.
The roof: caulk instead of flashing
Plumbing vent pipes that go through a roof are supposed to be wrapped with metal flashing jacks. On most of the roofs in this neighborhood, they’re sealed with nothing but caulk. I’ve seen this shortcut hundreds of times, and it doesn’t last. Caulk dries out and cracks in the Arizona sun, water finds its way in, and roof leaks and hidden water damage follow.
A heaving garage floor
The garage slab is lifting because moisture is building pressure underneath it. These aren’t minor cracks. This is movement, and grinding down the lips or caulking the cracks won’t solve it. The water source has to be fixed first.
Signs of structural movement
- Cracked drywall inside
- Porch columns that have shifted
- Sloping fascia boards
- Gutters dumping water right next to the foundation, which feeds the cycle: more water, more movement, more damage
What you can spot from the street
You don’t need a ladder to see some of these clues. Look for drooping fascia, lifted garage slabs, wavy roof lines and uneven pavers. They tell you a lot about how a home is holding up against time and water. If you see them, make sure your inspector looks closely at the roof and foundation.
Buying a townhome?
In a townhome or HOA community, ask who is responsible for the roof and exterior, you or the HOA. Either way, inspect beyond the paint and flooring. These problems are fixable, but only if you know they’re there. See what’s included in a residential home inspection.
Watch the inspection
See the roofs and garage in the video above, or watch it on YouTube. Book your inspection online or call 623-399-0079.
Property Inspections Plus is a Gilbert, AZ home inspection company led by Certified Master Inspector Dan Pierce. We inspect homes across the East Valley, the Phoenix metro and the rest of Arizona. See all of our service areas.
