Should I Have My Deck Inspected For Defects?

Many homes will have a deck. These are important to inspect and insure that they are in good condition. After many years, deck components will deteriorate and need to be replaced. Looking at the pictures below, we can see that these deck supports have cracks in them and in one of them, the cracks run from bottom to top. This deck post will need to be replaced.

Material defects (cracking)

Here's another deck support that shows signs of cracking at the bottom as well.

Questions that a homeowner and potential buyer will have: Is this safe? Do I need to have this repaired? How will this affect the selling/purchasing price?

It may or may not be safe and may thus need to be replaced. My recommendation as an inspector is to have a professional contractor determine if it is indeed safe or needs to be replaced. As an inspector, it is my responsibility to call such observations out as material defects and recommend that a professional contractor be consulted. Like all material defects, it will affect the price should the seller decide not to repair. The answer to "is it safe?" depends on the other supports and materials, which is the job of a professional contractor to determine.. For this deck, it appears to be safe to walk on, but should be evaluated.

On the inspection report, this will be listed and reported. As an inspector, it is my intention to thoroughly investigate all possible defects, especially if there is a potential safety issue. I also believe It's good to have a list of potential contractors listed that are qualified for evaluating and correcting the material defects to help both the home owner and potential buyer make an educated decision about whether or not it is safe, whether it needs to be replaced and how that may affect the overall price of the home.

If you have questions about this process or need to have a deck, roof or home inspection, please feel free to contact me at ContactUS@TrustCornerstoneHIS.com or call 719-445-6230.