Basements are the underbelly of every house. From visible cracks in the foundation to signs of pest invasion, it’s one of the best locations that allows you to see behind the curtain of your home. Being able to properly examine your basement will give you a greater insight into the overall health of your home. This knowledge will help your home pass an inspection, get it on the market faster, or buy your new home without any of these potential issues.
Foundational Damage
Foundation damage is a sign of larger issues and can lead to water damage, flooding, and structural damage. Foundation damage manifests in multiple ways:
- Cracks in the walls of the foundation.
- Gaps in the fitting of doors and windows.
- Uneven ceilings and roofs.
Signs of Moisture and Water Damage
Basements are often a source of excess moisture and leaks, especially in unfinished basements. Inspectors look for the following sources and problems:
- Leaking pipes.
- Water seepage through window, wall fixtures, and cracks.
- Past flooding and water damage.
Moisture due to poor ventilation or insulation.
Functionality of Basement Appliances and Systems
Inspectors will examine your HVAC system, boilers, plumbing, and electric systems. If they aren’t functioning correctly, there can be serious ramifications on the home’s market value. Signs they look for with these appliances include:
- HVAC Systems: high energy bills, difficulty heating or cool a room, stuffy rooms.
- Boilers: Bad odors, high utility bills, leaks, frequent repairs.
- Plumbing: Leaks, bad odor, mold, discoloration on pipes.
- Electrical: Circuit breaker trips, warm outlets, frayed wiring, flickering lights.
Air Quality and Health Risks
Basements, especially those with water and circulation issues, can negatively impact the air quality and health of occupants. This includes two major issues: the growth of mold due to leaking pipes or excess moisture, and the creation of build-up of radon gas in the air or water supply. Additional contributors to health and home damage can be the arrival of pests, which can further damage the home or cause potential health issues.
Whether you’re a current homeowner or a prospective one, it’s important to get your home inspected: passing an inspection will determine the value of the house and get it on the market. Contact the professional home inspectors at the Homeinex Corporation for a reliable and detailed report on your home.