Whether you are purchasing a new home or if you are re-selling an existing home, it’s important to know the basics of a home inspection before you commit to a deal. Not only will it help you know what to look for in the home, but it will also help you determine whether or not you should move forward with your purchase.
During a home inspection, you may notice several signs of foundation problems. Although some of these signs are cosmetic, others are indicative of structural problems. These problems can make your home more susceptible to moisture-related problems. Contact Home Inspector Colorado Springs CO for assistance.
One of the most common symptoms of foundation problems is cracks. Small cracks can be easily repaired, but larger cracks need professional repair. If you see a large crack, consider it a sign of more serious foundation problems.
Another indicator is a crack that is wider than your pencil. It’s not uncommon for houses to settle by up to an inch. It’s important to address this problem as soon as possible. This is especially true if the cracks are along the edge of the foundation.
Another indication of foundation problems is a sloping floor. If the floor rolls or shifts, your home could be experiencing some serious movement. To find out for sure, you can test the floor by dropping the ball onto the floor.
Another sign of foundation problems is gaps in the walls and doors. If the gaps are large, it can allow water to penetrate the home. This can damage walls and windows and can also lead to structural damage.
Another sign of foundation problems is cracked floor tile. These small cracks can be easily sealed with paint. However, if the crack is larger than a quarter of an inch, you’re likely dealing with more serious structural problems.
As with most things in life, the best way to determine if your foundation has problems is to hire a professional. These inspectors will check your foundation’s structural integrity, and take pictures of any anomalies. They will also offer recommendations for repairs.
Whether you are selling your home or buying a new home, having a professional plumbing inspection before closing the deal is a wise move. A faulty plumbing system can cause costly problems in the future.
While most home inspectors perform a general inspection of the plumbing system in your home, they have no technical expertise to advise you on the specifics of the system. However, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of passing the inspection.
First, check to see if the faucets and sinks in your home flush. If they do not, you should consider replacing them. Also, look to see if any drains are empty or clogged. Having a clogged drain can lead to major water damage.
Secondly, make sure that all your plumbing fixtures have separate valves. This prevents you from accidentally flooding your home. Also, make sure that your caulking is in good condition. Compromised caulking can allow water to get behind your walls and into your floors.
Third, consider hiring a professional plumber to perform a thorough plumbing inspection. A professional will be able to detect leaks, cracks, and misalignments in your underground drains. These problems can lead to expensive repairs, and they may also damage your foundation.
Last but certainly not least, consider getting a professional plumber to perform a water/sewer static test on your home. This test will help detect leaks in the plumbing system that are draining your home’s value.
The water/sewer static test costs $285. It is a more thorough test than most home inspections. It includes checking the water pressure in the lateral sewer piping, as well as exposed clean-outs and other plumbing system components.
Having a thorough inspection of your home’s electrical systems can provide you with peace of mind. Whether you’re planning on selling your home or simply buying a new one, an electrical inspection will reveal any electrical safety issues that may be lurking.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is the benchmark for safe electrical design and installation. It’s been updated 15 times since 1975. In addition to ensuring that your home’s electrical system meets the code, your inspector can recommend repairs or upgrades that can make your home safer.