Inspectrum Property Inspections

  When you're buying a home in Chicago—whether it's a historic greystone in Lincoln Park or a cozy bungalow in Beverly—there’s more to consider than square footage and curb appeal. Structural integrity is one of the most critical (and expensive) aspects of a home, and it's where hidden problems often lie. At Inspectrum , our certified inspectors have evaluated hundreds of homes across the city, and we’ve seen patterns emerge. As a trusted home inspector Chicago residents rely on, we’re revealing the top 5 structural issues commonly found in Chicago homes —and why you should never skip an inspection.   1. Foundation Cracks and Settling What We See: Vertical or horizontal cracks in the basement Uneven or sloping floors Doors that stick or won’t latch Why It’s a Problem: Chicago’s freeze-thaw cycles and soft clay soil can cause foundations to shift or settle. Left unchecked, this can lead to serious structural instability. Inspectrum Tip: ...

  When buying or renovating a home in Chicago, people often confuse the roles of general contractors and home inspectors. While both professionals deal with home structures and systems, their functions are very different—and knowing that difference can save you time, money, and stress. At Inspectrum , we often hear clients say, “Can’t my contractor just inspect the house?” The short answer: No —and here’s why. In this blog, Inspectrum Chicago breaks down the distinct roles of a home inspector and a general contractor—so you know exactly who to call and when.   🛠 What Does a General Contractor Do? A general contractor is responsible for executing construction and renovation projects. They oversee labor, materials, schedules, and subcontractors to build or remodel homes. Their expertise lies in doing —not diagnosing. Common tasks a general contractor handles: Remodeling kitchens, bathrooms, and basements Managing electricians, plumbers, and frame...

  Thinking about buying a home in Chicagoland? Don’t miss this essential conversation with  Julio Neira , President of   Inspectrum Inc. , one of the most trusted names in local home inspections. He shares valuable home inspection tips for buyers to help you make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises. In this episode of The Fine Print in Real Estate, we sit down with Julio to break down what really matters when it comes to inspecting a home—offering practical home inspection tips for buyers so you can purchase with confidence. What You’ll Learn: What’s a big deal vs. what’s no big deal • Which issues count as true safety hazards • How to spot signs of lead-based paint in older homes and condos • Common issues inspectors find—and what they actually mean • How an inspection report can help you negotiate smarter Whether you’re actively house hunting or just starting to plan, this episode is packed with practical, must-know info an...

  Landscaping and Exterior Maintenance: Prepare Your Home for Spring April marks the arrival of warmer weather and longer days, making it the perfect time to focus on your home’s exterior. From spring landscaping tips to repairing winter wear and tear, taking care of your outdoor spaces now ensures they’ll be ready for summer enjoyment. At  Inspectrum , we’ve seen how proactive exterior maintenance can save homeowners time, money, and stress. Here are our top tips for getting your home’s exterior in shape this spring. 1. Clean and Inspect Your Gutters and Downspouts Winter weather can leave your gutters filled with debris, which can lead to drainage problems. To keep water flowing properly: Clear leaves and debris:  Use a garden hose to flush out remaining buildup. Check for damage:  Look for sagging sections, leaks, or loose brackets. Ensure proper drainage:  Make sure downspouts direct water at least five feet away f...

  Energy Efficiency and Preparing for Summer Heat With summer just around the corner, May is the perfect time to get your home ready for rising temperatures. From optimizing your air conditioning system to improving insulation, a little preparation now can help you stay cool, save energy, and reduce costs during the hottest months. At  Inspectrum , we know how important it is to maintain a comfortable and efficient home. Here are our top energy efficient tips to prepare for the summer heat. 1. Service Your Air Conditioning System Your air conditioner works hardest during summer, so it’s essential to ensure it’s running efficiently before the heat hits: Schedule a professional tune-up:  Regular maintenance improves performance and extends the lifespan of your unit. Replace air filters:  Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. Clean around the outdoor unit:  Remove debris like leaves or dirt to ensu...