Concrete block support columns in crawl spaces may look simple, but they play a major role in carrying floor loads down to the footing below. In older New England homes and cottages, these areas often deserve a closer look.

Foundation anchorage is what helps tie a home’s framing to its foundation so the structure can better resist movement and remain stable under load. Anchor bolts, spacing, embedment, and placement all matter because this is one of the basic connections that helps keep a house in place.

Attic mold usually isn’t the whole problem. It’s the visible symptom. In many cases, the real issue is a mix of heat loss, moisture movement, and an attic ventilation strategy that isn’t working the way it should.

The Inspections Plus home inspection process starts long before they arrive to the inspection. They offer in depth guidance, consulting and inspection work.

Some large plumbing companies in Massachusetts are quoting $8k–$9k for a basic 40-gallon water heater swap that typically costs $1,500–$2,000. For a straightforward replacement—permit, haul-away, no system changes—that markup isn’t justified. Compare bids, hire a licensed MA plumber, and insist on permits and a city inspection. Knowledge is power—don’t overpay for a commodity.

This is a quick solution to prevent blocked, roof-exhausting dryer vents, and potential housefires.

Visible cracks, slab movement, and poor drainage on flat lots — this commercial building shows what happens when water control is overlooked. Even with patching, ongoing structural movement is clear. Flat properties need intentional drainage to protect slab-on-grade structures. Without it, repairs can get expensive. Always inspect for water management issues and signs of settlement before you buy.

Attic frost is usually not a roof leak. Learn why frost forms in Massachusetts attics, what damage it can cause, and how to solve the real problem.

This is an example of how moisture related issues in home inspections cause underlying issues and are the #1 red flag in a home inspection.