On a recent Home Inspection in Lakeport I discovered a broken water line in the ceiling of a nearly new, very high end home.  The home was a forclosure, very expensive and recently built by a quality contractor in an exclusive neighborhood.  The home had been winterized to supposedly prevent freeze damage.  Upon arrival the water was turned on as was authorized by the listing realtor.  The copper water lines were above the sheet rock ceiling.  Immediately massive amounts of water started pouring out of the recessed can lights in the kitchen, entry way and living room.  Obviously the water was turned off quickly.  Soon there after the sheet rock tape was sagging and further investigation in the attic found much of the insulation ruined by water.  The wood flooring in the kitchen and entry started changing color and has now shown signs of warping.  It will take thousands of dollars in repairs before the home is returned to quality living space.  Had the buyer not had a Home Inspection prior to signing off the contingencies, the repair burden would be his.  The selling bank has reluctantly extended the contingency period and as of this writing is getting repair bids to correct the damages.  The original buyer is still in contract with a desire to go ahead with purchase and live in the home.

This is one more classic example of why you should "NEVER BUY A HOUSE WITHOUT AN INSPECTION"  Further that the Home Inspector should be a Master Home Inspector who goes to bat for you and provides the documents, pictures and summaries needed to get the matter resolved to the satisfaction of the buyer.