In this episode of Thoughts from the Crawl Space, Jamie dives into the real story behind lead paint in homes built before 1978, and what buyers, agents, and investors absolutely need to know. Spoiler: finding lead-based paint doesn’t automatically mean a home is dangerous. The real concern is the condition of that paint.

From peeling corners, chipping trim, and chalky residue, Jamie breaks down how to spot red flags before they become expensive problems. Whether you’re eyeing a charming old fixer-upper or guiding clients through a purchase, this episode arms you with the knowledge to make smart, safe decisions about older homes.

Episode Highlights

• Learn why the presence of lead paint doesn’t automatically make a home unsafe.
• Key signs to watch for during inspections: peeling, chipping, and chalking paint.
• Practical strategies for managing and remediating lead hazards safely.
• The importance of consulting certified professionals for testing and remediation.

In this episode of Thoughts from the Crawl Space, Jamie spotlights the importance of weatherproofing your home as winter approaches. Preparing your house for cold weather not only boosts comfort but also improves energy efficiency and helps prevent costly damage. He shares practical steps homeowners can take to protect their spaces from harsh conditions, checking insulation, sealing drafts around windows and doors, and keeping heating systems in good working order.

Listen this week for the tools you need to keep your home warm, safe, and comfortable all winter long.

Episode Highlights

• Fix drafts and improve insulation to boost winter comfort and efficiency
• Tune up heating systems for safe, reliable performance
• Manage moisture and ventilation to prevent mold and damage
• Use proactive weatherproofing to avoid costly winter repairs

In this episode, Jamie discusses fireplace safety and maintenance, which are essential for keeping your home warm and worry-free during the winter. He breaks down the critical steps homeowners should take to ensure their fireplaces are operating safely, including clearing blocked flues, inspecting for creosote buildup, and making sure chimney caps are secure.

Listen for tips on when to call in professionals for inspections and how to enjoy a cozy, safe fireplace all season long.

Episode Highlights

• Key fireplace maintenance steps: clearing flues, checking creosote, and inspecting chimney caps.
• The difference between wood-burning and gas fireplace safety considerations.
• When and why to hire a professional for comprehensive inspections.
• Tips for enjoying a cozy, safe fireplace throughout the winter season.

In this episode, Jamie dives into why ancillary services are such a big deal when it comes to home inspections. We break down what these extra services actually are, things like radon testing, mold assessments, sewer line checks, and water quality testing, and explain why they’re not typically part of a standard inspection.

Jamie talks about how choosing the right add-ons can make a huge difference depending on your home’s location, age, and unique risks. While these services might come with an extra cost, they can save homeowners from major headaches and expenses down the road.

Episode Highlights

• Understanding which tests aren’t included in standard inspections (mold, radon, etc.)
• How investing in extra services can prevent costly problems later
• Radon testing: a critical step for homeowner health and safety
• Tips for making informed decisions about additional inspections

Did you know that over 40% of decks may have structural issues that could lead to catastrophic failures?

This week, Jamie talks about deck safety, a topic that’s often overlooked but carries serious risks. He breaks down the key components that keep a deck safe, including proper ledger board attachment, effective flashing to prevent moisture damage, and correctly sized joist hangers.

Listen for practical tips for homeowners: how to spot warning signs, what questions to ask during inspections, and when it’s time to call in a professional.

Episode Highlights

• Why Deck Inspections Matter: Learn why over 40% of decks may have serious structural issues and how a proper inspection can prevent accidents.
• Key Components of a Safe Deck: Understand the importance of ledger boards, joist hangers, and flashing in keeping your deck structurally sound.
• Spotting Warning Signs Early: Tips for homeowners on identifying potential problems before they become costly or dangerous.
• When to Call a Professional: Guidance on knowing which issues you can handle yourself and when it’s time to hire an expert.

This week, Jamie talks about mold, the stealthy menace that thrives in damp corners and can cause big problems for homeowners. He breaks down what mold really is, why it grows, and how it can impact both your health and your home’s structure.

Jamie also explains how to spot the early warning signs, like musty smells, surface discoloration, and persistent dampness, before the problem spreads. You’ll learn practical tips for preventing mold, from keeping indoor humidity below 60% to fixing leaks and water damage right away.

Episode Highlights

• What mold really is and why it thrives in humid environments
• Common signs that indicate mold growth in your home
• Health risks associated with mold exposure and how to reduce them
• Expert prevention tips: managing humidity, fixing leaks, and staying proactive

This week, Jamie explores the unique challenges of inspecting older homes. Drawing on his experience as a home inspection expert, he shares key insights for prospective homeowners, real estate agents, and investors considering the purchase of vintage properties.

He’ll explore what to look for before buying, everything from aging plumbing and outdated electrical systems to potential structural concerns and environmental hazards like asbestos and lead paint. He also explains why understanding a home’s history and conducting a thorough inspection are essential steps that help you avoid costly surprises.

Episode Highlights

• Understand what makes inspecting older houses unique.
• Spot issues with plumbing, wiring, and structure before they become costly.
• Identify risks like asbestos and lead paint.
• Learn why a home’s past matters for future upkeep.

This week, Jamie dives into the many ways plants can transform our homes, for better and sometimes for worse. From boosting curb appeal and improving indoor air quality to lowering energy costs, greenery brings plenty of benefits to residential spaces. But without proper care, vegetation can also cause problems like foundation damage and water issues.

Join Jamie as he explores how to strike the right balance, so you can enjoy the beauty and health perks of plants while avoiding the hidden risks.

Episode Highlights

• Beautify Your Home – How plants enhance your space.
• Health & Efficiency – Plants improve air quality and save energy.
• Avoid Pitfalls – Prevent damage from poor plant placement.
• Smart Plant Care – Balance benefits and risks for a healthier home.