A property inspection can be quite a nerve-racking portion of the home-buying process – however it is also a vital step. Below are a few things that can be uncovered while inspecting that could add to the expense of a house – or save you from purchasing a lemon altogether.
What to anticipate Any time You’re Inspecting a House
1. Lurking charges
Even though a home’s electrical system might appear to operate adequately, inspections can reveal safety issues. This frequently happens with old wiring that’s corroded or outdated, or with new wiring that has been improperly installed.
2. A failing grade
Poor grading, or a slope that drains water toward your property instead of away from it, can cause lots of problems such as flooded crawl spaces or basements, rotting walls and framing, and mold and foundation damage.
3. Trouble above
Roofing materials don’t last forever, and inspectors often find problems with aging materials that will soon cause problems. The scale of necessary repairs can vary from requiring you to replace a couple of shingles to needing a completely new roof.
4. Mold
Particularly in humid regions, mold can sprout anywhere moisture collects, like attics, basements and drywall around leaky pipes. If the inspector finds mold, a separate mold inspection is usually necessary.
5. Foundation flaws
As a home settles over time, the foundation can shift. Symptoms include cracks in the drywall, uneven floors, and windows and doors that will not shut. While home inspectors can identify basic foundation issues, if they see an issue that seems structurally suspicious, they’ll often recommend you call a foundation engineer to evaluate the situation.
6. Not going with the flow
Inspectors often find clogged or bent gutters, or gutters that channel water too close to the house, where it may cause damage.
How concerned should you be if any of these issues show up on the inspection report? An experienced Realtor is able to translate the inspection and suggest remedies – or how quickly you should run from a deal.
Ensuring that the person doing the inspecting is licensed, bonded and insured is usually half the battle. Nick & Cindy Davis work will qualified home inspectors ready to assist you in your home purchase. We are always just a click here or call to 813-300-7116 away.
