Five Most Common Defects in a Home Inspection
January 19th, 2010 Categories: Real Estate News
You listed your house, you got a contract, the financing is in place – the only thing that remains is the dreaded home inspection. Bill Richardson, president of the American Society of Home Inspections (ASHI) says, ” . . . we’re not the bad guys. We’re there to just report it like it is and comment on the condition of the home. If a seller has taken care of the home, there shouldn’t be a problem.”
That being said, here are five of the most common defects in a home inspection – and what you can do to prepare.
Improper electrical wiring - The most serious problems stem from faulty wiring done by home owners or unqualified contractors – inadequate overload protection or wires tied together without being housed in a box are two of the most common. Depending on the age of your home, make sure the proper building permits were issued and are on record.
Roof deterioration – Old or damaged shingles can lead to leaks and even a complete roof replacement but regular maintenance can stave off costly fixes. Use binoculars to check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles.
Plumbing problems – Dripping faucets, corroding or mismatched materials, faulty fixtures, and improperly installed hot water heaters are all sources of common plumbing troubles. Check sink faucets, hose bibs, and valves regularly for potential leaks. Fixing leaks immediately will prevent larger problems like mold, mildew and structural damage.
Improper surface grading or drainage – If proper drainage in not in place, water will enter a house, with basements and crawl spaces being the most vulnerable. Damaged gutters or downspouts are another source of unwanted water.
Poor overall upkeep – Cracked, peeling or dirty painted surfaces and broken fixtures or appliances can signal overall neglect and decayed caulking around doors and windows is more than just an eyesore. Walk around your house at least once a year with a discerning eye. Home inspectors can also conduct maintenance inspections to point out what’s starting to fail and what could cause serious problems down the road.
Be ready for your home inspection and don’t let these five most common defects derail your sale.
Michael
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