Getting through your Home Inspection: 5 biggest areas to pay attention to
Being aware of common home inspection issues can save you time and headache before you even get into escrow on your new home. In a fiercely competitive market like this, a large percentage of people often bring a general contractor along to their home inspections during the early contingency period phase of a deal (we recommend this). Taking a proactive stand, to make sure any household issues are solved and all repairs are made before closing, is imperative.
The best defense is being equipped with the right knowledge, so take time to educate yourself even before your home inspection. In addition to this list, we’ve attached more resources at the end of this article to help you as your get ready to purchase your new home.
The 5 biggest areas to pay attention to before closing as a homebuyer:
1. Mold and Mildew at the Home Inspection
Mold, mildew stains and odors, are especially important to be aware of. Toxic mold is serious and can have long term health effects.
Check out this article from the CDC on the dangers of mold. https://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm
If the home does have mold issues, you have the right to demand professional mold remediation, this can cost thousands but is essential.
Check out this article from the Bulletproof blog talking about how to take control of mold issues: https://blog.bulletproof.com/top-11-ways-toxic-mold/
2. Damp Basements and Crawlspaces
Look closely at the walls and floors for patches of mildew or signs of dampness. Ask the inspector to use a meter to determine how much moisture is present in these spaces.
If there is any exposed earth in basements and crawl spaces make sure that they were covered with plastic to keep moisture levels down.
Ask the inspectors to check the foundation for "leaks" and that there are adequate drainage funnels.
3. Roof and Chimney
Check for loose shingles or other roof coverings that are coming apart. If the inspector notices problems here, a larger roof repair will likely be required.
If the home has a fire place or chimney, check that the bricks/stones are in good condition and that all sealants around the base are intact.
4. Plumbing Problems
The inspector will check for adequate water pressure throughout the house and test how it stands up to multiple uses (shower on, while running the kitchen sink etc.) It is also standard to run an entire cycle of the dishwater.
5. Heating and cooling systems
Check that both heating and cooling systems are functioning. Also, important to look at: the thermostat's calibration, air filters, blower components, and correct airflow through units and home.
I work with some great Home Inspection companies and also know some excellent contractors and handymen. Let me know if you’d like me to give you a couple of referrals. If you’re about to get into contract and you want to be in safe hands, let me know. I’m here for you!
Need a referral? Book a free consultation here: https://www.lukejonesre.com/book-online
More Resources:
1.http://www.bankrate.com/financing/mortgages/home-inspection-checklist/
2.http://www.businessinsider.com/5-questions-to-ask-your-homes-inspector-2011-7