Brown County home inspector for New Ulm, MN.

What we actually find on New Ulm homes.

Field observations from real inspections in and around New Ulm, Brown County. Each finding informs how we approach the next inspection.

• New Ulm's masonry-heavy construction means mortar joint condition is a primary inspection focus — particularly on north and west walls exposed to driving weather.
• Original German-style basements often have stone or brick foundations with unique moisture patterns — efflorescence, parging condition, sill plate evaluation are all standard.
• Tile roofs (clay tile, concrete tile) are more common here than elsewhere in our zone — they have different lifespan and inspection criteria than asphalt shingles.
• Hermann Heights and downtown historic homes often have original mechanicals (boilers, knob-and-tube, galvanized plumbing) — full system replacement is sometimes recommended.
• Carved stone trim and decorative masonry need specialized evaluation — water entry behind ornate stonework is a common hidden-damage source.
• 1990s-2010s expansion neighborhoods west and south of downtown follow modern construction patterns; criteria match standard MN suburban inspection scope.