While a home inspection isn’t a “must-have” before you buy a house, there are certain things you should be aware of. Among these things are plumbing, electrical and foundation problems. Home buyers don’t expect a perfect house, but they want to make sure there are no heavy burdens. While home inspectors can note minor problems, you can also spot the most serious ones yourself.
Electrical issues
Electrical issues are one of the most common problems found during home inspections. They range from faulty outlets to outdated wiring. A licensed electrician should be consulted before making any electrical changes in a home. Faulty wiring can be a safety issue for both the homeowner and the occupants.
Regardless of the cause of the problem, electrical problems are likely to be expensive to fix. Electrical systems are the third leading cause of house fires, and they can be life-threatening. Fortunately, home inspectors can spot these problems during an inspection. If the issue is a serious one, the seller may agree to make repairs, or he may accept a reduction in the purchase price to compensate for the problems.
Termites
A termite inspection will be necessary for certain types of loans. Veterans loans, for example, require a termite inspection of any home. Finding termites in your new home can be an upsetting experience. If you do not have a home inspector, there are a few ways to tell if you have termites.
Mud tubes are a telltale sign of termite activity. These tubes are typically found along the foundation, near pipes, or in the crawlspace or attic. Termites use these tubes to provide humidity levels and protection from predators. They are about the thickness of a drinking straw and can be straight or squiggly.
Another sign of termite activity is the presence of termite swarmers. These critters emerge in spring and have enormous wings. Some of these insects are trapped inside their swarmers and cannot fly out. When this occurs, you may have a severe infestation of termites.
Foundation problems
The foundation is one of the most important components of any building and is the first place a home inspector will look for signs of damage. If it is sagging or is stressed, it’s a sign of an underlying problem. An inspector will also look for double doors and windows that are awry or do not latch properly. If the doors and windows are difficult to open or close, they may be a sign of a foundation issue.
A home’s foundation is composed of poured concrete blocks. The material is porous and cracks are inevitable, but not always noticeable. Some cracks are perfectly normal and not worth fixing, while others may be serious and require the help of a structural engineer. During a home inspection, it’s a good idea to have a professional structural engineer look at any visible cracks to rule out major issues.
Plumbing problems
One of the most common items found during a home inspection is a plumbing problem. This can be as simple as a dripping faucet or as complicated as cross-connection issues that require replacing pipes. If the problem goes untreated, the water may become contaminated and lead to mould growth in the home. Home inspectors look for any signs of water damage and mold, as well as cracks or leaks around the pipes.
Water damage from untreated plumbing can affect the walls, floor, and subfloor of a home. As a result, plumbing inspectors look for signs of leaks throughout the house. Moreover, they look for evidence of DIY work, evidence of moisture, and cross-connection problems.
Mold growth
Inspecting a home for mold growth is important for a variety of reasons. It can indicate the presence of water damage or other hidden water damage. Besides water damage, other signs that a home is at risk for mold growth include discolouration of walls, peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper, bowed surfaces, and more.
Finding mold growth in a home can be concerning, but it is not a deal-breaker. It’s best to schedule a home inspection to check for any signs of mold growth before purchasing. Although mold is common in most homes, some types can be dangerous to your health.
Fortunately, a good mold inspection can save money, time, and headaches. While there are many benefits to having a mold inspection performed, it’s important to understand that mold inspections are not always covered by homeowners’ insurance policies. The expense of mold removal and repair can be substantial. Also, having mold in your home can make it difficult to rent or sell your property. In addition, it can cause respiratory problems that can limit your productivity.