Buying a property is never easy because it’s a long process. You have the paperwork, fees, and mortgage to worry about, which are processes that could take weeks to months to complete. Beyond that, you must also find the right property for you and your family, which takes just as long, if not more. This is where a home inspection comes in.
As the name suggests, a home inspection is a comprehensive examination of the condition of a property, usually conducted by a professional home inspector. A home inspection aims to identify all major defects or problems with the property, which can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to buy it. Naturally, this also means a prospective buyer must know some of the most common issues in a home before buying it. These include:
#1 – Corroded Plumbing
Plumbing is a crucial part of any house, and all its components must be in good working condition. Unfortunately, many homes have at least one or two areas of corroded plumbing. This is because plumbing is often made of metal, which can corrode over time.
The most common area of corroded plumbing in a home is usually the pipes. These pipes can corrode for several reasons, one of which is the presence of water. When water interacts with metal, it can cause the metal to corrode. This is why it’s crucial to regularly inspect your pipes to ensure they’re in good working condition.
#2 – Electrical Wiring Problems
Another common problem in many homes is electrical wiring problems. These problems can occur for various reasons, but improper installation is the most common. If you suspect that your home may have electrical wiring problems, it’s vital to have an electrician come out and take a look. An electrician can tell you if there are any problems and what needs to be done to fix them.
#3 – Cracked Walkway or Driveway
If you have a cracked walkway or driveway, it’s essential to have it repaired as soon as possible. These cracks can cause water to seep into your home, leading to many problems, including water damage and mold. If you have a crack in your walkway or driveway, it’s best to call a professional to have it repaired.
#4 – Poor Ventilation
Ventilation matters in any home because it helps to improve air quality and prevents the growth of mold and mildew. If your home doesn’t have proper ventilation, it can lead to many problems, including water damage and mold. If you think your home doesn’t have adequate ventilation, it’s best to call a professional to inspect it.
#5 – Mold and Mildew Presence
Mold and mildew in a home are problematic because they can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health problems. You can try removing them yourself, but it often requires special equipment to ensure they won’t return. It’s best to hire a mold remediation company to ensure this won’t happen again, which is crucial if you’re buying or selling a property.
#6 – Faulty Railings
Railings are functional and aesthetically pleasing, so faulty railings are a problem. If you’re looking at a home with a deck or balcony, ensure the railings are secure and in good condition. This way, safety is prioritized for everybody.
#7 – Exterior Grading Issues
Exterior grading matters in any home because it can affect water drainage. If the grading is off, water may pool near your home’s foundation and cause several problems over time.
Working with a Home Inspector
As the name suggests, a home inspector is a trained professional who will inspect every inch of your new home and provide you with a detailed report of their findings. They will create a report that will outline any potential problems with the house, as well as their severity. Once the report is done, the next step would be to wait for repairs. This will take some time, but it will prompt another visit to ensure everything is done correctly.
Of course, you must hire a home inspector with experience, a good reputation, and a solid understanding of home construction and repair. This way, the money you pay your inspector is worth it.
Conclusion
A home inspection is a crucial part of the buying process because it ensures you buy a quality home. It also allows you to negotiate with the seller to get the repairs done before you move in. During the inspection, all that matters is that the inspector should be able to identify any potential problems and what to do about them.
Ally Property Inspections provides top-quality services for house inspection in Birmingham. Our professional home inspectors will ensure the property you want is checked from roof to foundation to avoid possible issues, all for affordable prices. Simply go to our website to schedule an appointment!