Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/18/2008

Question
We are considering purchasing a home that had drivet on it at one point. The house is 10 yrs old. The realtor told us it had drivet that was installed poorly. The owners spent about $100,000 having it removed and a new exterior put on.I am worried about about what kind of damage is hiding under the new exterior. What are possible concerns and what kind of expert should be used to thoroughly check this out and ease our minds?
Thanks!

Answer
Hi malinda, most home inspection companies are qualified to look at stuff like this.  If the drivet installation was poor because it leaked and the exterior walls got water and mold damage inside then there will be evidence remaining if the proper abatement procedures were not followed.  So without knowing what problems the drivet had it's hard to say what hidden things are lurking inside those walls.  But if the previous owners spent 100k on the work then chances are pretty good that the work was done properly.  Perhaps you can talk to the owners or have them disclose exactly what kind of work was done. There are probably even receipts that itemize the work.  It will say if insulation was replaced and mold abatement work was done..I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com