Burnt Houses

This was taken in an attic. The white paint with charred sheathing

Through the duration of a home inspection occasionally we come across what are known as burnt houses.  These are homes that have had a fire in them at one time.  After fires consume a house some portions of the house are left intact.  This is highly dependent on the size of the fire.  Some fires will consume the whole and house and it needs to be completely destroyed.  After a fire the city and engineers make the determination what needs to be done to remediate a house.  Generally if a fire has been in a house it should be disclosed.

There are tell tale signs that a fire has taken place in a house.  The signs are not difficult to spot.  If the house was not completely destroyed the basement framing, wiring, ducts and plumbing will be painted a white or silver color.   Some of the charred wood may be left over at certain areas.  At the electrical panel you may find an inspection tag for the work that has been done after the fire.