A home inspection report can make or break a home-sale deal. Thus, it is critical to know what common problems are checked during the home inspection, and fix them before you search for “Home Inspector Near me”. If you are someone who is planning to sell a home, then knowing these problems will help you a lot in the home-selling process.
- Exterior Grading That Causes Water to Collect Around the House
Poor grading and drainage issues are both common and expensive. If there is improper grading, then think about re-grading the front and the back of a property. A positively graded property draws water away from the home foundation which ensures that a home stays dry. On the other hand, negative grading may cause the soil around a home to soften that can jeopardize the structure’s integrity.
- Faulty Electrical Wiring and Overloaded Circuits
Don’t believe that everything is fine as long as electrical appliances are working. Because of its thinking, electrical problems are often ignored which may later result in serious hazards. Inspectors will instantly notice worn-out electrical wires, outdated knob-and-tube wiring, overloaded circuits, and exposed wiring. Missing and faulty GFCI outlets are also inspected as they are mandated by law in all bathrooms, kitchens, garages, laundry rooms, and areas where water sources are present.
- Aged and Faulty Roofing Problems
A roof with problems like cracked shingles, leaks, and water damage always needs to be fixed or replaced. It’s because a weak roof is more vulnerable to heavy snow buildup. The added weight of snow adds to the load and can weaken a home’s structure. Plus, problems with sheathing and rafters should also be addressed.
- Evidence of Termites and Other Wood-Eating Insects
Homeowners may not notice wood-destroying insects, such as termites, carpenter ants, and bees that may find a way in your home through foundation cracks. They stay hidden and can easily go unnoticed until the inspector comes for a Home Inspection. The main reasons behind infestation are consistent humidity and a damp environment. Signs of infestation include visible mazes, mud tubes, wood grains, and swollen ceilings and floors.
- Water Damage in Basement
Water damage not only compromises the structure of a home but also the safety and health of homeowners. Water penetrates through cracks in basement walls that result in spalling in concrete, brick, or stone. If your basement is invaded by water damage, it can greatly affect your home-selling deal.
- Increased Radon Levels
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that may result in lung cancer. It usually moves up the ground and can enter your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon is typically present in all homes across the country; however, concentrations are low and not strong enough to cause sickness. In case radon levels are higher in your home, it might create a big problem. So, install a radon-reduction system to fix this issue soon.
Sometimes, even smaller problems may be flagged by Home Inspectors and that can lead to bigger issues. Thus, to make the deal as smooth as possible, fix all the problems beforehand so that your home inspection report doesn’t look bad.