Water stains around tiny holes on ceilings smoke detectors

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sanch

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I am looking at a 2 storey house and notice the popcorn ceiling smoke detectors (4 out of 5) have tiny holes drilled around them and there is stain markings around the tiny holes. Main floor has one smoke detector and it has this stain. 3 out of 4 smoke detectors upstairs have such stains. What would have caused it? Could this indicate a bigger problem? Please see picture.20180525_124628.jpg
 
Definitely a sign of moisture. Proceed with caution.
 
The hole appear to be somebody's attempt to locate a framing member, and didn't have any toothpaste to cover the evidence.
And the view from the attic, including the underside of the roof sheating above?
 
What's in the area above this?
Holes could also have been an attempt to drain out the build up of water coming from above.
 
Thanks all.
We went to look at the house again today, and noticed ceiling in one room on the second floor has water damage sign. So I guess the tiny holes were drilled to release the moisture. Not sure when did the leak happen and doesn’t look like will get an answer from the seller...
The second floor bathroom had a leak once upon a time too, which might be why the smoke alarm on main floor also has those holes drilled to release the moisture.
Then, also notice basement ceiling behind the stairs also has some water marks. This is in the middle of the house, so it is really bizarre to see the water stains...
The stained spots are all dry, so the leaks must have happened some time ago. But with all these water stain markings, I am hesitant to make a decision.
 
Has the owner indicated when/if the house has been reroofed.

You have the ability to develop a punch list based upon the results of a competent house inspection, if and when you decide to make an offer.
 
There was no mention of new roof, so should be still the original. House built in 2001.
 
Demand to see if there were any insurance claims for water damage from the insurance company. The house I purchased had two water damage claims, and now we have to pay a high deductible for our homeowners insurance which was not investigated through our title company. This should be a mandatory requirement from the title companies while in escrow, but currently it is not.
 
I went to the house again today. Still like it very much. Going to make an offer. How to check with insurance company, and which insurance company? The house owner isn’t the original owner since built.
 
Get an inspection by a housing inspection co. before you make the offer.

They check the viability of everything in the dwelling.
 
The stain around your smoke detector is a sign that there's moisture. I hope it works out for you. :)
 

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