How I Diagnose Hidden Home Issues Before They Get Expensive- Mike’s PRO Handyman

Home Diagnostics

How I Diagnose Hidden Home Issues Before They Get Expensive

I’m Mike from Mike’s PRO Handyman in Las Vegas. After 25+ years in the trades—electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and construction—I’ve learned that the costliest repairs often start as tiny, hidden problems. A slow leak behind a wall, a warm breaker, a hairline crack that grows. My diagnostics visit is designed to catch those early, explain what’s happening in plain language, and give you a simple, prioritized plan so you can fix issues before they become “$” problems.

🔎 Moisture & Leak Hunt

I scan under sinks, around toilets, behind appliances, and exterior hose bibs with a moisture meter and thermal camera to spot hidden damp spots before mold or rot sets in.

⚡ Electrical Safety Sweep

Outlet polarity/GFCI tests, panel temperature check, and a visual for scorched wires or buzzing breakers that hint at overloaded circuits.

🏠 Structure & Envelope

I look for settling cracks, failed caulking, weatherstripping gaps, roofline issues, and attic/soffit ventilation problems that drive energy bills and moisture.

🧭 My 3-Step Process

• Listen: Quick walkthrough + your concerns and recent changes.
• Scan: Moisture, temperature, and voltage checks in key zones.
• Plan: Clear, prioritized fixes (DIY vs. pro) with simple pricing.

🧰 Pro Tools I Bring

• Thermal camera & moisture meter (find hidden leaks)
• Circuit/outlet tester & non-contact voltage tester
• Borescope for tight spaces (under tubs, inside walls)
• CO alarm checks & water-pressure gauge

Early Warning Signs You Can Watch For

💧 Slow, Mysterious Damp

Dark grout lines, musty baseboards, or lifting vinyl near kitchens/baths.

⚡ Hot Plates or Buzzing

Warm outlets/switches, flicker on appliance start, tripping GFCIs.

🧱 Hairline Cracks

New zig-zags from window corners or doors rubbing frames.

🌡️ Uneven Rooms

Hot/cold spots hint at duct leaks, missing insulation, or failed seals.

🚰 Water Heater Noises

Popping/rattling suggests sediment; early flush beats early failure.

🪟 Foggy Glass

Failed window seals drive up energy costs and invite moisture.

What You Get After the Visit

• A plain-English summary of findings (with photos if helpful)
• A prioritized checklist: urgent • soon • nice-to-have
• Transparent pricing for any fixes you want me to handle