313-510-0284
Hello, I am Matt Fletcher of Matt Fletcher Home Inspections LLC. We perform home and commercial inspections all over the Sterling Heights area. My father was a contractor, and I grew up working on old houses. I put myself through college rehabbing homes. I graduated with honors from Macomb Community College with an AA Degree. Then received a BA degree from The University of Detroit with honors, and a Masters degree from Wayne State University and have been involved in renovation, construction education and inspection business for over 30 years. Call 313 510 0284 InspectDetroit313@gmail.com
We have grown over the past 25 years completing thousands of inspections including residential homes, commercial, industrial buildings, apartment buildings, strip malls, large shopping malls, parking lots and parking structures, as well as City of Detroit facade inspections. We also do Property Condition Assessments (PCAs) for lenders and buyers all over the world, environmental testing such as radon, mold and lead, Phase 1 environmental site assessments for commercial mortgage lenders. I am currently a certified home inspector through Global Inspection School. I was past certified inspector through NAHI, InterNACHI, ASHI and AHIT and a FHA/HUD approved inspector (FHA ID H392). We offer structural analysis by a Structural Engineer with our findings sealed by a Michigan licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Call 313 510 0284 InspectDetroit313@gmail.com
Before becoming a full-time Sterling Heights home inspector, I was a state certified construction teacher, and taught construction trades to high school students where we built a real house. I now own Matt Fletcher Home Inspections LLC. I am also a licensed builder, Certified Mold Inspector & Remediator, certified in radon measurement, certified in Lead Inspection, and certified in Attic ventilation.
I am also an experienced home rehabber and restoration expert. Having been a real estate investor for over 25 years and have been fortunate to be featured in a few books on the subject. This book by real estate attorney, Robert J. Hill (www.RealEstateStories.com), features stories about myself and my partners on pages 30, 77 and 79.
I have also been a real estate investor and “flipper” and was also featured in Deals That Make Sense by Harvard MBA, John T. Reed (www.JohnTReed.com). There is a story about a rehab project I did on page 32 called “$80,000 Rehab Profit.” I was also featured in John T. Reed’s newsletter, “Real Estate Investors Monthly” October 1999 issue. So, if you are an investor I understand your concerns when buying a property.
My 2005 promotional video
Our Rates for single-family Sterling Heights homes are as follows:
0,000 Sq Ft – 1,500 = $ 425.00
1,501 Sq Ft – 2,000 = $ 450.00
2,001 Sq Ft – 3,000 = $ 500.00
3,001 Sq Ft – 4,000 = $ 550.00
4,001 Sq Ft – 5,000 = $ 600.00
5,001 Sq Ft – 6,000 = $ 700.00
We have a sewer camera and can scope your sewer line for an additional $150. Sewer scopes are $150 during the time of the inspection, $275 as a standalone inspection. Testing for radon is generally $175 to $250. Call 313 510 0284 InspectDetroit313@gmail.com
Many homes in Sterling Heights are on the water and built on crawlspaces. Crawlspaces should be entered and inspected if there is adequate access.
In the picture, I was able to push a screwdriver through a joist. The wood was rotten as well as having insect damage and mold. The clay soil in Macomb County doesn’t drain well resulting in more moisture in crawlspaces. Very high humidity levels in the crawlspace as well as occasional flooding can cause this type of damage.
In the picture, one of my students and I are installing a drainage system in one of the houses we built in Macomb County.
Because Sterling Heights is near the water, the water table in the soil may be higher than other places.
There is almost always a drainage system under a house to carry water away from the basement or crawlspace. However, over time all drainage systems will fail. They fill with roots, minerals and soil which plugs the system. If there is access to the drainage system either through the sump pit or clean-out caps, the system can be hydro-jetted to remove debris and restore flow.
When we inspect a Sterling Heights home or commercial building we do a visual assessment for mold. However, mold testing is not part of a standard inspection. We have done environmental testing in homes and commercial buildings all over the Detroit area. Mold is a natural part of the environment and EVERY building we have tested, has contained mold. Typical molds in normal amounts are generally not harmful to healthy people and are not a concern.
We restrict our mold business to testing only. We do not do any sort of mold remediation, removal or clean-up. Since we only do testing, there is no conflict of interest, and we have no reason to try and scare customers into expensive clean-ups which they may not even need. Outdoor Sterling Heights area mold testing reveals that mold levels are typical to the mid-west. The mold inside your building should equal to or less than the outdoor levels.
In the photo at left I am taking a sample of the air for mold in an old Sterling Heights building. Ideally, the mold spore count will be in the hundreds, not in the thousands. When you can see large amounts of mold on surfaces as seen in the photo, the mold spore count will generally be in the tens or hundreds of thousands. We also test buildings for radon gas. The Sterling Heights area generally has low radon levels but does have pockets of radon gas. Radon is the number two cause of lung cancer in the United States. Call 313 510 0284 InspectDetroit313@gmail.com
Understanding Moisture Issues In Sterling Heights Basements
Moisture issues in Sterling Heights basements can lead to a range of problems, including structural damage, mold growth, and poor indoor air quality. Here are some common causes and consequences of moisture in basements, along with potential solutions.
Common Causes of Moisture Issues
- High Humidity Levels
Basements are located underground, making them more susceptible to high humidity. This can be due to the natural moisture in the soil surrounding the foundation. Sterling Heights Michigan has high levels of moisture and clay soils which can result in additional moisture in the basements. - Poor Drainage Systems
Inadequate gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems can cause water to accumulate near the foundation, leading to leaks and seepage into the basement. - Cracked Foundations
Cracks in the foundation walls can provide pathways for water to enter the basement. These may develop due to settling, shifting soil, or other structural issues. - Condensation
Warm air meeting cold surfaces (like concrete walls) can create condensation, which leads to water accumulation over time. - Plumbing Leaks
Leaky pipes or fixtures within the basement can contribute to excess moisture, compounding existing problems.
Consequences of Moisture Issues
- Mold and Mildew Growth
Excess moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can pose health risks and worsen air quality. - Structural Damage
Prolonged moisture exposure can weaken the structural integrity of your home, leading to expensive repairs. - Pest Infestations
Damp environments attract pests like termites and cockroaches, which can further damage your home. - Unpleasant Odors
Moisture can lead to musty odors in the basement that can permeate throughout the house.
Solutions to Address Moisture Issues
- Improve Drainage
Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from the foundation. Consider installing a French drain or a sump pump for better water management. - Seal Cracks and Gaps
Regularly inspect and repair any cracks in the foundation or walls to prevent water intrusion. - Control Humidity
Use dehumidifiers to maintain optimal humidity levels (ideally between 30-50%). Ensure proper ventilation in the basement. - Insulate Pipes
Insulate cold water pipes to reduce condensation and prevent moisture buildup. - Regular Maintenance
Perform routine checks of plumbing and drainage systems to address issues before they become significant problems.
By understanding and addressing moisture issues in basements, homeowners can create a healthier, safer living environment while protecting their property from damage. Call 313 510 0284 InspectDetroit313@gmail.com