A home is a significant investment, so it’s important to make sure the property doesn’t have hidden problems. Your home inspection can reveal many important issues that can help you decide whether the contract price is fair and estimate the cost of repairs.
Upon conducting a home inspection, the inspector will take a close look at the property inside and out, including the:
- Roof
- Gutters
- Ceilings
- Walls
- Floors
- Stairs
- Countertops
- Cabinets
- Appliances
- Garage doors
- Windows
- Doors
- Decks
- Balconies
- Porches
- Landscape elements
- Yard grading
- Walkways
- Driveways
- Patios
- Swimming pools
Unless you’re an expert on homes, it’s best to hire a professional that knows all the secrets and tricks. Most people try to cover up damages in the home they’re trying to sell, so you need to know for sure whether each house is one you can live in for a long time. Here’s what you need to know as a buyer when you have your home inspection.
Wood Damage
Damaged wood is a telltale sign of a termite infestation. If your home inspector notes this issue or you notice it yourself, you may want to have a separate termite inspection as this is not included in a standard home inspection. Sometimes damaged wood is noticeable, but it can also occur inside the walls.
Cracked Walls
Sometimes cracks arise naturally as a home settles, but they can also indicate the presence of termites and a severe foundation issue with the property. Your inspector will determine the cause of the cracks and whether they are cosmetic or could cause structural integrity issues.
Electrical Problems
Sometimes, damaged electrical wiring can indicate a pest problem. When mice or insects chew wires, the risk for fire increases. It’s important to check inside the walls for wiring issues, since that’s where rodents tend to hide.
Plumbing Issues
When the home has leaks or other plumbing problems, the standing water can attract termites and lead to other types of pest infestations. If the problems are long-standing, they can lead to accumulated moisture, mildew, and mold.
Window and Door Problems
Damaged or worn windows and doors can create an inroad for rodents, termites, and ants. The inspector will analyze the condition of the windows and doors, including gaps and cracks that can accommodate pests. If doors and windows frequently get stuck, this could indicate that termites have damaged the wood.
You should attend the home inspection, so you can ask any questions that you have about the property. The inspector will give you a full report with photos within a few days of your appointment.
After the Home Inspection
Hopefully, your home inspector will be thorough enough to catch any infestations or issues. If you do end up having having a pest invasion, it’s important to quickly hire an experienced extermination service and make sure to prepare for the extermination. Contact us today at (347) 305-8524 to learn more about truly making your home your own by getting rid of unwanted trespassers.
