Home Inspections – Common Problems Found During Home Inspections
During home inspections, inspectors will find a few common problems. These include mold, broken pipes and clogged sewer lines. Knowing what to look for will help you save money and avoid expensive repairs. Here are some common problems that can arise during a home inspection.
Mold
A mold inspection may reveal a variety of problems that homeowners need to be aware of. For starters, mold is usually a sign of a leak, either from inside or outside the house. If you suspect a leak, you can try to clean it up yourself, but if the situation becomes severe, you may need to hire a professional to remove it. Termite infestation is another common problem home inspectors look out for. Although these invisible pests are not visible, they can cause severe damage if left untreated.
Mold is a serious problem that can be very expensive to remediate. A mold inspection is essential before you buy a home. Even if mold growth is not something you are concerned about, a home inspector could detect moisture buildup or other signs of mold infestation. Mold growth can be caused by excess moisture. You should fix any leaks that you find quickly. It is also important to grade the ground around your home and maintain proper humidity levels inside the home.
Sewer lines clogged
Sewer lines are a vital part of a plumbing system, but they often receive the least attention. Sewer lines can become clogged and water can seep into the home, causing damage or destruction to flooring or drywall. Tree roots are a common cause of sewer clogs. It is possible to catch clogs in their early stages and avoid major problems before they become costly.
Tree roots are the most common problem with sewer pipes. Tree roots seek out moisture and will push into the pipe to get it. They can cause major damage to the pipes and fill them with large roots. Call a plumber immediately if you see tree roots growing in your pipes. To spot roots, plumbers can use video inspections.
Broken pipes
Broken pipes are a common problem that home inspectors encounter. Broken pipes can be caused by many things, including a car accident that damages a pipe or homeowner intentionally cracking a pipe with their hammer. Broken pipes are not only costly to repair but can also reduce household water flow and pressure.
Broken pipes can also cause water supply problems. Lead from rusting pipes can leach in the water supply, contaminating it. This can lead to health problems. Because of the potential for lead exposure, home inspectors look for rusty pipes. Broken pipes can also cause water pressure issues. Rust builds up in water pipes, causing a blockage.
Faulty electrical wiring
Safety is dependent on the electrical system of a home. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrical systems were responsible in 57% of all structure fires that occurred between 2010 and 2014. Faulty wiring can pose a danger to your safety. To detect potential electrical safety hazards, the Electrical Safety Foundation recommends that your home is inspected annually.
A licensed electrician can inspect the electrical system of your home and ensure that it is up to code. Faulty electrical wiring is particularly dangerous in older homes, and should be repaired or replaced by a licensed electrician. Poor quality wiring that is not up to current safety standards is often the cause of faulty electrical wiring.
Improper grading
Poor grading can have a significant impact on a home’s drainage and structural integrity. For example, improper grading can lead to cracked concrete slabs, which can cause water to leak into the basement. It can also cause uneven terrain in a home which can lead to slips and falls. A professional home inspector will identify these issues and suggest appropriate solutions.
While minor issues are easily repaired, hidden problems can ruin a deal. Improper grading can be a major problem during a home inspection. This problem can lead to serious damage to a home if not addressed.
Water pooling around homes
Water pooling around a house can indicate many problems, such as a poor foundation or leaking pipes. It can also cause mold growth. Standing water can also cause wood rot, which can lead to a significant decrease in property value. Too much water can also compromise the foundation’s integrity, which can make it expensive to repair.
There are many ways to solve water problems. One of the simplest solutions is to install a sump pump or install a French drain system. Any of these solutions will help you control the water in your home. However, the best solution will depend on the exact source of the water.
Improperly installed gutters
Gutter installation is a common problem. This can lead to water damage and costly repairs. These issues can be prevented by homeowners making sure their gutters are checked and repaired if necessary. Ineffective gutters can also cause rotting wood around the home’s foundation. This problem can be addressed by homeowners installing new gutters and grading the area. It is important that homeowners clean their gutters regularly, especially near large trees.
Improperly installed gutters can cause water to overflow from the roof and damage the foundation. Gutter pitch should be at least 1/2 inch per ten feet. They should also be free of leaks and clean. Incorrectly installed gutters can also cause water backflow into your home and damage your wood decking. Incorrectly installed gutters can also allow water to seep through the foundation of your home, causing moisture intrusion, and settling problems.