Seaside is a diverse and growing city on the Monterey Peninsula that has undergone remarkable transformation in recent years. With the redevelopment of the former Fort Ord military base bringing new housing, retail, and California State University Monterey Bay, Seaside offers a compelling mix of affordable established neighborhoods and modern new construction. At Landmark Property Inspections, owner Judd Bull, CPI brings specialized expertise to evaluating Seaside’s diverse housing stock, from post-war military-era homes to brand new construction on the former base.
Whether you’re considering a family home in established Seaside neighborhoods, new construction in the Fort Ord redevelopment area, or an investment property in this growing market, our comprehensive inspection services address the full range of Seaside housing.
What We Find in Seaside Homes
Seaside’s mix of construction eras and coastal proximity creates specific property challenges. Our inspections regularly uncover:
• Post-War Construction Aging – Many established Seaside homes were built in the 1950s-1960s during the Fort Ord era with construction methods and materials that are reaching the end of their service life
• Coastal Sand and Soil Conditions – Sandy soils common in Seaside can cause foundation settlement and create drainage challenges, particularly in older neighborhoods
• Salt Air Effects – While less severe than beachfront communities, Seaside’s coastal proximity still accelerates corrosion on metal components and roofing materials
• Outdated Electrical Systems – 1950s-1960s homes commonly have undersized electrical panels, dangerous brands including Federal Pacific and Zinsco, and aluminum wiring in some properties
• New Construction Quality – Fort Ord redevelopment has brought significant new construction that needs inspection for builder quality, proper installation, and code compliance
• Wood Destroying Organisms – The moderate coastal climate supports termite and beetle activity throughout Seaside
Our Services
Residential Inspections – Complete evaluation of Seaside homes from 1950s military-era construction to modern Fort Ord redevelopment
Multi-Family Property Inspections – Assessment of duplexes, condominiums, and multi-unit properties
Commercial Property Inspections – Professional evaluation of commercial properties in Seaside’s growing business districts
Thermal/Infrared Imaging – Technology for detecting moisture issues, insulation deficiencies, and electrical hotspots
Aerial Drone Inspections – Comprehensive roof evaluation for all property types
Why Choose Landmark Property Inspections?
Seaside’s mix of old and new construction requires an inspector comfortable with both ends of the spectrum. Judd Bull’s InterNACHI certification and experience on the Monterey Peninsula ensure your inspection captures aging system concerns in older homes and quality verification in new construction. Whether you’re buying a starter home in established Seaside or a new build on former military land, we provide thorough, practical evaluations.
Common Issues in Seaside Homes
Post-War Construction Reaching End of Life
Seaside’s 1950s-1960s housing stock was built efficiently during the military base era. Common findings include electrical panels requiring replacement, original galvanized plumbing approaching failure, asbestos-containing materials in various locations, and roofing systems past their expected lifespan. We identify which systems need immediate attention and which have remaining useful life.
New Construction Verification
Fort Ord redevelopment has brought tract housing that benefits from new-construction inspection. We verify proper installation of all systems, check for common builder oversights, ensure drainage and grading are adequate, and confirm the home meets the standards promised in purchase documents. New doesn’t always mean perfect.
Sandy Soil Foundation Considerations
Seaside’s sandy soils can cause settlement and drainage issues. Older homes on these soils may show foundation movement over decades. We evaluate foundations for settlement patterns, cracking, and whether the foundation system is appropriate for the soil conditions. Proper drainage is critical in sandy soil environments to prevent erosion under foundations.
Electrical System Updates Needed
Older Seaside homes frequently have electrical panels with known safety issues and service that’s undersized for modern demands. Some properties from the 1960s-1970s also have aluminum branch wiring that requires specific outlet connections to prevent fire risk. We evaluate the complete electrical system and prioritize safety upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I get a new construction home inspected in Seaside?
A: Absolutely. New construction inspections consistently find issues that need correction before closing. Builder oversight, installation errors, and incomplete work are common even in quality developments.
Q: What should I know about older Seaside homes?
A: Expect aging systems that may need updating – especially electrical panels, plumbing, and roofing. These are manageable costs when planned for, but surprising when unexpected.
Q: Does Seaside have coastal weather effects on homes?
A: Yes, though less severe than beachfront communities. Salt air still accelerates corrosion on exterior metal components, and the marine layer creates moisture challenges for building maintenance.
Q: What about the former Fort Ord land – any environmental concerns?
A: Fort Ord underwent extensive environmental remediation before redevelopment. New construction areas have been cleared for residential use. Our inspection focuses on the built structure, but we recommend buyers review available environmental documentation for their specific parcel.
Schedule Your Seaside Home Inspection
Protect your investment in growing Seaside with professional inspection services from Landmark Property Inspections. Call 831-649-6000 to schedule your comprehensive evaluation with Judd Bull, CPI.