Roseville MN · Property TypeTwo-Story Home Inspection

What makes this property type different to inspect?

A two-story home has primary living spaces stacked on two levels above grade, typically with a full basement below. Two-story construction is the dominant residential form in pre-1940 housing and re-emerges in 1990s+ subdivisions.

Why two-story inspections vary by era:

• **Pre-1940 two-stories**: Balloon framing, knob-and-tube wiring, cast iron drain at 80+ years, original chimney brick, slate or cedar shake roofs (often converted to asphalt).

• **1960s-1970s two-stories**: Less common, but where found, brought standard mid-century defects.

• **1990s-2010s two-stories**: Modern platform framing, EIFS where present, kickout flashing concerns, polybutylene tail end, passive radon stub-outs.

• **2010s-2020s new construction two-stories**: Modern envelope, active radon at build, 11-month warranty inspection candidates.

Two-story-specific inspection concerns:

• **Roof access and steep slopes**: Two-story roofs are often steep enough to require drone photography rather than walking.
• **Upper-level water management**: Bathroom failures on the second floor can damage the first floor below.
• **Chimney access**: Chimneys on two-story homes extend higher, with more flashing surface and weather exposure.
• **Window count and condition**: More windows than a rambler, more insulated-glass seals to inspect, more replacement cost if many have failed.

Typical scope: - 3-5 hours on site (varies dramatically by era and size) - 70-120 page report (pre-1940 two-stories run longest) - All standard services applicable

Which defects do we look for most often on this property type?

• Knob-and-Tube Wiring
• Cedar Shake to 3-Tab Roof Conversion
• Ice Dam Formation

How do I schedule an inspection on this property type?

Call (651) 666-5602 or use the free instant quote calculator. Same-week scheduling, same-week digital report.