RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES

How Not To Photos

This area of the site is a collection of photos of actual defects found during inspections of new and old construction. Feel free to explore the amazing defects.

Roofing Tips   Home Safety   Plumbing How not to weave a composition valley   Drop in sometime   How not to install a toilet waste pipe Possible indications of a defective drainage system   How not to install an electrical receptacle   A new use for old hub caps How to catch a wood roof on fire   How not to install a garage door opener   Why is leaking sewer gas potentially hazardous? Check your gutters and downspouts after it rains #1   Watch your head   Innovative waste pipe support and venting Check your gutters and downspouts after it rains #2   Be sure to check out those kitchen cabinets   Water Heaters Exposed felt between shakes   Security or fire trap?   What's wrong with this water heater #1? A well-woven valley   What do you mean I need a new disposer?   What's wrong with this water heater #2? Don't climb that ladder!   Why fireplace chimneys should be kept clean   Not the best way to keep your ducks dry Coating compatibility is important   What's wrong with this air conditioner?   What flue gases can do to gas appliance vents A cricket in name only   How not to install a wood-burning stove   Flue Gas Decks   Not the best way to dry bath towels   Flue gas spillage at the furnace How not to build a better deck Maybe not a good place for a big party #1   Stairway safety #1   Rust is a good indicator Maybe not a good place for a big party #2   Stairway safety #2   Foggy mirror shows spillage How not to support a high deck on a steep hillside   Name this heating system defect   Flue gas spillage at new furnace Earthquakes   Electrical   Flue gas spillage at water heater firebox door Do you feel like a nut?   The most dangerous receptacle I have ever seen   Old Houses Short bolts, new construction   What's wrong in this kitchen?   When is a window no longer a window? Seismic hold-down, new construction   How to energize your showering experience   When is concrete no longer concrete? The "not clear on the concept" earthquake retrofit company #1   Not a good place for that receptacle   Spalling can cause significant damage The "not clear on the concept" earthquake retrofit company #2   How to shock your family and friends   Name this roof-framing defect Name this framing defect Winner of the 1996 "Not Even Close Award"   Electrical Panels   New Construction General Why we look inside electrical panels #1 New roof, poor installation Out-of-sight, out-of-mind painting company   Why we look inside electrical panels #2   What's missing? Multiple-use frieze blocks Why we look inside electrical panels #3 What's wrong in this photo? What is the major cause of building damage?   Name this common electrical defect   How not to install rain gutters Perforated downspout piping