Here are some important things to look for in your own home or when you are
 thinking of buying a new or resale home.

 90% of all visible moisture in a basement comes from outside, not through
 walls. Slope the land outside to make water flow away from the foundation.

 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) recommends that
 every home should have a dehumidifier in operation in the basement,
 especially during the summer. Air conditioned air sinks into the basement
 and condensation is more likely. So is mold.

 South-facing windows need effective sun blocking blinds or curtains during
 the summer.

 Porches and decks more than two feet above ground need a barrier to
 prevent falls. There are many designs from which to choose. Most can be
 installed by the homeowner.

 It is false economy to operate your air conditioner year after year without
 servicing. Call a technician familiar with your system.

 Clean out your eavestroughs if you have trees close to your home.
 Clogged run-off systems put water exactly where you don't want it -
 running down outside walls to the foundation.

 Check that walkways are even. Frost can move stones and other surfaces
 and create trip hazards.

 Raised gardens should not be in direct contact with the foundation wall.
 Moisture evaporates through this wall until it's blocked by raised soil. Design
 a two-inch gap between the new garden and the foundation.

 Provided by James Walker Home Inspections