Ceiling Water Staining & Drywall Sag Concerns

[Mike Hsiao]

I just finished up a home inspection on a 4-plex in San Diego.  There were a number of broken window seals and improper flashing installed on a lot of the windows, as well as a couple of the 2 story decks.  The improper flashing on the decks seems to be causing some of the ceiling stains running across the first story ceiling/walls where the deck attaches to the house.

There also looks to be a possible past dishwasher that leaked from upstairs, but all the appliances have now been removed from the property.

It's been raining a lot here in San Diego, much more than usual, and the property has been vacant I know for at least 1 year.  I know the property has likely been neglected for at least 2 years before that as well. I hear the past owner used to take care of the property, until he got hooked on drugs.

There were a few areas noted on some of the ceilings of water staining and dry wall sag...mainly in the first floor units. There were other areas that looked like they were recently painted on the ceiling. I have to assume to try and hide some water stains.

Without being able to see behind the walls, my mind starts to think of potential wood rot, fungus, and mold growing.  Although the inspector did not notice any mold in view, I'm worried about what's behind the walls/ceilings.

I plan to have my GC walk the unit next week. 

QUESTIONS:

1. Since I can't rip down the walls, what are somethings I can possibly do to burn down risk of discovering a major disaster on my hands if I decide to move forward with this property?

2. Is there anything specific I should ask my GC, other than pointing out the areas?

The property is looking less appealing, but I really like the location. I want to get an idea if my concerns are warranted, or if I'm making a bigger issue than it really is.