Question:

The day of the torrential rainfall in Ottawa from the hurricane effect my living room ceiling had some water leakage. As it is a new home(less than 1 yr)I called the builder who looked at it and later told me it was due to the storm forcing rain in through the plastic louvered exhaust vent(for the kitchen fan which is adjacent to the living room as it is a semi-detached home and the vent piping runs from the kitchen thru the living room outside to the wall). The builder said they were not responsible!!! Question; are they? And if not how do I fix the problem so that every time a windy, heavy rainfall develops I don't have to leave plastic buckets in the living room?? I am more concerned with fixing the problem so it does not happen again than with arguing with the builder over minor ceiling repairs. As well, I am going to get a home inspection done prior to the one year period so you are a prime candidate. I can't believe the builder did not offer a solution; am I being snowed or what?? Thanks, Jeff Kasparek

Answer:

As I am hopeful you are aware, the events that transpired last week are extreme forces of nature and are not common occurrences. While your builder may be correct, his lack of concern or responsibility reinforces the reason for new home inspection prior to possession. Provided the leak occurred below the vent piping the builder is correct. The only recommendation I have to you is to inspect and improve the caulking/sealing around the exterior plastic vent cap. The leaks you have described and the problem you refer to of "every time a windy, heavy rainfall develops" is not a common occurrence. Heavy wind and rain does not usually sustain itself for the length of time we endured last week. I don't believe you will have a reoccurring problem unless of course a similar 12 hour rain/wind storm appears. To reiterate, inspect the vent cap and caulk/seal as required, as for the builder I am unable to comment but I would ensure my clients are satisfied at all costs. I recommend you book your 1 yr. inspection 3 months before final submissions are required. Please document all cosmetic/structural concerns as they arise. Looking forward to servicing you ONHWP needs in the future, Robert Hill AmeriSpec Inspection Services 613-248-0725

Answered By: Robert Hill

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