Gumshoe Property Inspection LLC

02/13/2026

Second level bedroom window. Looks good, so what's the problem? Not really visible here but there is a safety issue.

Since 2006 the International Code Council (ICC) has specified that fall protection be in place for any operable window with sills less than 24" above finished floor, and more than 72" above finished grade (i.e. the ground below). This window meets both criteria. And fall protection is missing.

Since this window would also function as an emergency escape fall protection would usually consist of some type of Window Opening Control Device (WOCD). These allow the window to open, but restrict the opening to less than 4". To accomodate emergency escape the devices restricting the opening must be must be releasable without special tools or keys.

When people ask me what a home inspection is I always reply that it is both a function and safety inspection.

This again illustrates the value in not skipping a home inspection when buying. Function wise this window is fine. Safety wise it is not. A good home inspection report will highlight all these issues that allow you to make an informed buying decision on a house. So you can buy one that not only looks good, but also helps protect it's occupants.

02/12/2026

Seen during a 4-point insurance inspection. Some clues here. The collection of rags under the P-trap suggests an ongoing leak, as evidenced by the heavy corrosion on the P-trap.

If you encounter this it is important that you do not touch the P-trap. This material is chrome plated brass. And the corrosion started on the inside. By the time it has reached this point the walls of this material can be thin enough that you can cave them in by gentle finger pressure. And if you are not ready for this you will empty the contents of the P-trap all over the inside of the cabinet.

So if you see this, don't touch it. Call a plumber and let them handle it.

02/11/2026

Older 70's home but pretty new roof. Looks great right? But what's that sag along the ridgeline? Let's take a look from the attic side.

And there's the reason. Ridge beam longitudinally fractured and the fracture begins where a large knot is visible. Knots weaken a beam structurally and this piece probably should have been rejected but the builder....well...

The good news is this can be repaired. This is where making sure you don't skip your home inspection when buying pays off. There are no defect free homes out there and defects can vary in severity. This one though, the structural integrity of the house has been compromised. And it's something you want to negotiate out with your agent and the seller.

Home inspections matter and can save you the cost of the inspection many times over.

02/09/2026

Excited to share that me and my business were recently profiled in Voyage Houston, an online magazine where they highlight the best of everything Houston!

Gumshoe Property Inspection LLC offers home inspections, mold testing, radon testing and sewer scope inspections that are both high quality and competitively priced.

Check out our story below then head on over to our website and book your inspection today!

https://voyagehouston.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-bryce-kibbey-of-gumshoe-property-inspection-llc

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bryce Kibbey. Hi Bryce, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?Gumshoe Property Inspection began when I found ...

02/03/2026

Came across this water heater on a recent inspection. There is evidence of heavy and extended backdrafting that has lead to a dangerous level of corrosion. And it was 20 yrs old.

The worst part about it? It was in the attic. This is a ticking 50 gallon water bomb that can do massive damage to a home in the event of a catastrophic failure.

This is the type of defect a home inspection is designed to catch. But it's the homeowner's responsibility to periodically self-inspect their home. A homeowner should do a visual inspection of their home's major systems at least once a year.

And be aware of your system's age(s) and typical life expectancies. Water heaters? Typical life expectency of 8-12 years. Proper maintenance and other factors (like a water softener) can extend this but bottom line - nothing lasts forever. Be aware of systems conditions and budget for replacement at appropriate intervals.

https://gumshoeinspection.com/
[email protected]
713-424-1411

02/02/2026

When I inspect a home for you, I am your trained eyes, ears and nose. I will be there for you not only the day of the inspection, but after the report is delivered.

If desired I am happy to have a post-inspection "debrief" call to discuss findings, help prioritize any deficiencies found and answer any questions.

Buying a home is a big investment and a big deal. My role is to give you actionable intelligence so you can make an informed decision. I'm here to serve you. Contact me today to schedule your inspection!

Bryce Kibbey
Owner/Inspector
Gumshoe Property Inspection LLC

https://gumshoeinspection.com/
[email protected]
713-424-1411

01/27/2026

If you had anywhere between $1K and say $3,500 to do an improvement in a home, what would you do?

I know what I'd do: Install a water softener system. Dollar-for-dollar, pound-for-pound a water softener system is, IMHO, one of the best, if not THE best improvement you can made for that amount of money.

Why? Check out my reasons in our newest blog post below. And before anyone says, "I don't like soft water because the soap doesn't rinse off", that's a myth and we address that too. Check it out.

https://gumshoeinspection.com/why-a-water-softener-system-is-the-best-bang-for-the-buck-home-improvement-you-can-do/

01/23/2026

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