A house inspection is imperative if you are looking to buy a new home. These inspections can save you thousands of dollars of repair and grief. The following is a list of the top ten problems that are often found during a house inspection:
- Foundation Problems: The house’s foundation is sinking, crumbling, or there is water or cracking in the basement. Foundation problems are usually an indication of many other expensive problems.
- Worn out Roof – Everyone knows that roofs will suffer from wear and tear over the years, but if buckling is found or missing shingles, these are both signs that a new roof may be needed soon.
- Improper Ventilation – If the ventilation in a home is not right, the house can suffer from all kinds of problems including mold and inadequate heating and cooling temperatures.
- Plumbing Issues – A leaking sink or pipe can become the source of a myriad of problems later down the line. Even if the problem seems fairly insignificant at the time of the house inspection, it’s recommended that it be fixed before you place a bid. Plumbing problems can get worse over time if they are ignored.
- Electrical Problems – A thorough house inspection will include an analysis of the home’s electrical system. Outdated or unsafe wiring can pose a serious fire hazard and should be updated.
- Major Components – During the house inspection, the major components of the home should always be looked at. This includes all major appliances, water heaters, pumps of any kind, and even things like the water main and sewer lines going to the house. Any defects in these items can mean trouble.
- Pests – You automatically know that the presences of pests such as mice or termites is a warning sign, but be sure that an inspection of their presence is performed during the house inspection.
- Attic or Crawlspace Issues – The attic should be free of debris, clean, and show good insulation. The crawlspace (if applicable) should also be clean and as free of any major cracks or leaks as possible.
- Paint or Siding is Peeling/Cracking – Peeling paint may just be an aesthetic problem, or it could indicate the presence of lead paint. Cracked siding means it’s older and should be replaced.
- Water in the Basement – If you see water in the basement, it’s advised you do not buy the home. Water in the basement means a myriad of issues are already happening to the home such as flooding, moisture problems, ventilation issues, and possible structural issues as well.
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