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In Wisconsin any fuel oil tank stored outdoors, in a basement or in any other building that is not being used (no fuel oil or other fuel consuming device actively working). must be properly decommissioned. There are two options for decommissioning: (a) The tank and all connected piping, including the vent and fill piping, shall be [...]
According to Wisconsin Plumbing Code, nearly anything fixture that handles cleaning agents must be drained to the sanitary drain (the septic tank/system). This includes sinks, showers, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. This that may be able to be drained to grade (not in the septic system): Condensate from furnace, air conditioner, drainage sump pump discharge, dehumidifier [...]
There are three primary reasons for maintaining a space between the outside of your home (including decks): 1) It creates a defensible space in the case of a forest fire, 2) It helps reduce moisture from accumulating on the home and roof. Moisture leads to increased maintenance and wear/tear on your home, 3) Reduces the [...]
Per the graphic above, if your home was built before 1940 it is highly likely (87% chance) that your home contains lead-based paint. If your how was built between 1960-1977 there is approximately a 24% chance your home contains lead-based paint. In 1978 the federal government banned the commercial use of [...]
Some may question whether a home inspection is necessary for the purchase of a condominium unit. A condo is just as much your home as a free standing, single family home. Condominiums are unique because you are typically responsible for the interior of your home while the association is responsible for the exterior (generally speaking). [...]
Here are the facts about mold as outlined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Mold exists everywhere both indoors and outdoors and thrive in warm, damp and humid conditions The CDC does not generally recommend routine testing for mold and there are no universally accepted standards for testing. If you see or smell mold it should [...]
Radon levels above the EPA's Action Limit (the concentration limit that should never be exceeding in a home) have been found on second floor dwelling units. The Surgeon General and EPA both recommend testing for radon an any level below the 3rd floor. The 3rd floor is defined as the third floor level from the [...]
Your home should have carbon monoxide detectors outside sleeping rooms and in the space or hall directly adjacent to the sleeping room. In addition, at least one CO detector should be located on every floor of the home. Please download and review the carbon monoxide summary sheet from the NFPA, who is regarded as the authority on safety topics. http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/safety-information/safety-tip-sheets/cosafety.pdf?la=en About Home [...]
Your home should have smoke detectors installed in each sleeping room and in the space or hall directly adjacent to the sleeping room. In addition, at least one smoke alarm should be located on every floor of the home, including the basement. The link below is a smoke alarm summary sheet from the NFPA, [...]
The National Electric Code (NEC) and your municipalities codes are the ultimate authority to answer this question. The NEC does state in Article 312, that an electrical enclosure located in a wet or damp location shall be weatherproof. So if your home's electrical panel installed outside and it is exposed to the elements, it should be [...]
It all started in the 1980's with a nuclear power plant employee that was setting off the radioactive alarms on his way IN to work. After a lengthy investigation, they found the source of his radioactive contamination was the Radon gas in his home. From there the EPA began various studies to determine its significance in [...]