Buying a new home is a large investment. But even recently built homes that appear flawless to the untrained eye can have some common issues lying beneath the surface. To safeguard your investment before committing to a purchase, make sure you hire a home inspector. Furthermore, be sure to familiarize yourself with some of the common problems found during home inspections.
Faulty Utility Systems
Though a common problem found during an inspection, faulty plumbing and electrical systems are often overlooked due to being hidden from sight, not properly stress tested, and skimped by contractors.
Utility Problems Found in Old Homes
In older homes, the electrical system may be outdated and incapable of handling the stress of modern electrical appliances. Furthermore, with wear and tear, electrical wires can become exposed, which presents a fire hazard. As for plumbing, aging fixtures can result in leaky pipes and poor water pressure.
Utility Problems Found in New Homes
Utility problems can even be present in newer homes. Plumbling pipes can be incorrectly laid or the water heater may have been improperly maintained. And although new homes have an abundant supply of power and electrical outlets, nearby insulation could be causing overheating.
Poor Drainage and Grade Sloping
Moisture and drainage are the leading causes of dry rot and toxic mold. To prevent structural damage, the grading of the property must slope away from the foundation. Newer homes can even develop drainage issues if the downspouts are insufficiently diverting water away from the house.
Roof Problems
A home inspector will pay close attention to both the interior and exterior of a roof, as problems can arise from either side.
Interior Roof Problems
An obvious sign of a problem would be mold growth, musty odor, or moisture, which would suggest a leak in the roof. An inspector will also look at the insulation to calculate energy efficiency.
Exterior Roof Problems
Examining the roof from both near and afar is important when inspecting for damage. Cracking or curling shingles, damaged flashing, and a sagging roof are problems that can lead to water seepage, rotting boards, and mold growth.
Foundation Flaws
A foundation keeps a home stable and evenly distributes its weight. The following issues portend a compromised foundation:
- Exterior cracks
- Drywall damage
- Expansion joint separation
- Bowed walls
- Uneven ceiling and roof
You can learn more about what causes these issues by reading our blog, Why Home Foundations Are A Critical Part of Home Inspections. Becoming familiar with common problems found during home inspections can give you the foresight to identify these issues when buying or selling a house. At the Homeinex Corporation, not only can we spot these typical problems, we have the experience to locate complex problems that often go unnoticed. To learn what our inspections entail or to schedule an inspection, contact us today.