Homebuyers will not want to miss any details when it comes to making sure that the home they are about to purchase is really as good as it appears to be on the surface. They also want to make sure that they will not end up having problems such as a roof leaking or plumbing issues that will lead to extra costs once the deal is already sealed. That is why they will hire a professional inspector in order to know exactly what to expect before they sign the contract.
If you would like to know what to expect before an independent inspector visits your home, you can make a pre-inspection yourself, if you know what you’re looking for and what elements are important. Having that knowledge can help you become aware of any small issues your home may have and considerably reduce any extra costs this may lead to if not identified on time.
We have identified 12 of the most common issues below.
1. Defective Plumbing
There are three major issues that may arise from defective plumbing: leaking, clogging, and corrosion. An inspector will detect leaking by evaluating the water pressure and turning on all faucets in the highest bathroom, and then flushing the toilet. Furthermore, if the water appears dirty when first turned on the faucet, it will indicate that the pipes are rusty, which can lead to severe water quality problems.
2. Moisture in the Basement
If you smell mildew in your basement, be aware that it will be most likely impossible to eliminate. The home inspector will certainly detect the problem and check basement walls and floors for dampness. More specifically, they will check your walls for a powdery white mineral deposits a few inches off the floor. It could cost you from $200 to $1000 if you need to repair a crack in or around your basement foundation. Having to add a sump pump and pit could reach $750-$1,000, and complete waterproofing could generally amount to $5,000—$15,000, depending on the size of your house. You will need to take these elements into consideration when estimating the price you will ask for your home.
3. Inadequate Wiring & Electrical
Your home should have a minimum of a 100-amp electrical service. Keep in mind that most insurance companies will not insure a home under that minimum, as it is the reasonable limit to safely handle today’s electrical loads. Wire should be copper or aluminum, and inspectors will verify if there are any inadequate circuits that may cause a fire hazard.
4. Poor Heating & Cooling Systems
Your heating and cooling system need to be properly maintained to optimize their performance, safety and efficiency. Insufficient insulation and an inadequate or dysfunctional system will generally be the causes of deficiencies, and inspectors will verify if there are any signs of damage or leaks.
Regarding your heating, even if it is in good condition and it may be functional for years to come, an inspector will check if it has exceeded its average lifespan which is 15 to 25 years.
It is therefore recommended to make some adjustments with the help of a professional before an inspector evaluates your home
5. Roofing problems
Water leakage through the roof can be caused for many reasons such as physical deterioration of the asphalt shingles (e.g. curling or splitting), or mechanical damage from a wind storm. When gutters leak and downspouts allow water to run down and through the exterior walls, this external problem becomes a major problem inside the house.
6. Damp Attic Spaces
Inadequate ventilation, insulation and vapour barriers can cause water, moisture, mold and mildew accumulation in the attic. This can lead to considerably age the condition of the roof, structure and building materials. The cost to fix your roof can easily reach more than $2500.
7. Rotting Wood
This can be found in many places (door or window frames, trim, siding, decks and fences). The inspector will usually probe the wood to verify its presence—especially if he sees that the wood has been freshly painted.
8. Masonry Work
Rebricking can be costly, but if it is not dealt with, it may cause problems with water and moisture penetration inside the house, which could lead to, for example, a chimney falling onto the roof or being clogged by fallen. A chimney that needs to be rebuilt or replaced may lead to major costs.
9. Unsafe Electrical Circuit
Generally, older homes are particularly more at risk of electrical fire hazards than newer homes.A fire hazard is created when more amperage is drawn on the circuit than intended. The most common
A fire hazard is created when more amperage is drawn on the circuit than intended. The most common is to have 15 amp circuit in a home, with larger service for large appliances such as stoves and dryers. Replacing your fuse panel with a circuit panel can cost you several hundred dollars.
10. Adequate Security Features
Inspectors will verify basic safety features that will protect your home such as proper locks on windows and patio doors, dead bolts on the doors, smoke or even carbon monoxide detectors. Even if the price range varies, these elements will add to your costs. Before purchasing or installing, you should check with an expert.
11. Structural/Foundation Problems
An inspector will not fail to check the condition of the foundations of your home, as structural integrity is a fundamental element. Among other things, the floors, the presence of cracks, and the load-bearing walls will be checked.
12. Vermiculite Insulation
Vermiculite may be found in your insulation. It is not a health issue itself, but much of the vermiculite sold in Canada was extracted from a mine that contained a small percentage of asbestos, which was used from the 1950s to the early 80s. Health Canada estimates that approximately 200,000 homes contain this insulation in the country.Asbestos fibers, when stirred and breathed, can pose a serious health risk. If you think your home may be insulated with vermiculite containing asbestos fibers, it is important to know that the best way to reduce exposure to asbestos is to avoid moving it. In case you want to perform renovations, consider hiring a qualified and accredited professional for the handling of asbestos.
Asbestos fibers, when stirred and breathed, can pose a serious health risk. If you think your home may be insulated with vermiculite containing asbestos fibers, it is important to know that the best way to reduce exposure to asbestos is to avoid moving it. In case you want to perform renovations, consider hiring a qualified and accredited professional for the handling of asbestos.When putting your home on the market, the last thing you want is to have unpleasant surprises that could cause you major obstacles towards the selling your house.
When putting your home on the market, the last thing you want is to have unpleasant surprises that could cause you major obstacles towards the selling your house.By having an understanding of the 12 elements presented above, you will not only be more prepared for what will come out of an inspection, but you will also be able to detect potential issues and avoid significant extra costs.
By having an understanding of the 12 elements presented above, you will not only be more prepared for what will come out of an inspection, but you will also be able to detect potential issues and avoid significant extra costs.
