If you’re buying a new house, you hope that it’s a place your family will be safe and protected. To make sure your investment is a smart one, hire a home inspector to examine the property. An inspector will provide a professional assessment of all areas, systems, and components of the house. You can then decide if the home is right for you. Here are a few common home concerns that your inspector will look out for.
1. Problems With the Electrical Wiring
Improper electrical wiring can lead to hot spots, tripped circuit breakers, and house fire. During an inspection, the inspector will look for poor grounding, inadequate overload protection, and faulty wiring connections. He or she will check that GFCI outlets are installed in areas where water is often used. The inspector will list any electrical problems found in the inspection report.
2. Roof Damage
The roof is an important part of the structure because it protects the home and your belongings. Leaks in the attic or dark stains on ceilings can indicate the roof has seen better days. A professional inspector knows how to assess the condition of the shingles and can estimate the remaining life expectancy of the roofing materials. He may recommend repairs to areas of the roofing or might suggest that the entire roof needs to be replaced.
3. Common Home Concerns: Mold Growth
Especially in older homes and homes without air conditioning, dampness and mold may be a concern. If you’re buying a home, you might notice a musty smell or see mold on surfaces. Mold can lead to property damage and allergy-like symptoms. Talk to your home inspector if you’re concerned about mold in the home. The inspector might recommend mold testing and be able to perform it themselves.
4. Plumbing Problems
In newly built and in older homes, plumbing can be a problem. In new houses, issues are often due to improper installation or damage to the components. Older homes may have leaks, lead or polybutylene pipes, or problems with slow drainage. A home inspector will inspect the pipes and other aspects of the plumbing system and will note problems and concerns in the inspection report.
5. Poor Drainage
Clogged gutters and poor grading can cause water to back up into the basement or crawlspace. The home inspector will notice areas that indicate flooding or water damage. He or she can find areas where water is pooling and may recommend improvements to the grading and drainage on the property.
6. Common Home Concerns Include: Termite Infestation
It is estimated that termites cause $5 billion in property damage every year in the US, making them a major problem. Be proactive about protecting your new home from termites by talking to your inspector about your concerns. Home inspectors can recognize signs of termite damage and may recommend that termite control experts are hired to irradicate the pests before you move in.
Homeowners have common concerns when it comes to purchasing a property. To feel more confident in your investment, hire a home inspector to take a look. The information in your inspection report will be valuable in helping you decide if the home is right for you and your family.
Cole’s Inspection Services provides inspections to customers in the Statesville, NC, area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.