Your house is a significant financial investment for a comfortable and peaceful future. Getting the keys to your dream home is exciting, but examining the house’s condition is essential so you know what to expect after you move in.
Here are some home inspections you need to invest in to avoid structural issues or extra costs:
1. Roofing
Roof inspection is usually part of the four-point inspection service, which comprises the roof and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing systems. It ensures structural integrity and material quality are not compromised. Call professionals if you notice your roof leaving or sunlight entering unusual places.
They check the roof’s age and condition, the materials used and whether there are any leaks or cracks. Metal roofs are popular in Georgia due to their weather and UV resistance. Some also deflect sunlight. However, this could cause wear and tear in the long run. Furthermore, if not installed well, it could also contribute to leaks. Professional inspectors check if all these are correctly assembled.
2. Foundation
Your home’s structure determines its integrity, especially during bad weather and storms. When a house’s foundation is damaged, it can cause issues like cracks, leaks, uneven fixtures, mold and pest damage. Check for holes, leaks and gaps when you look around the house.
A professional will assess your house for cracked walls, floor damage, drainage issues, tree root encroachment, and chimney issues. Repairing the house’s foundation after purchase could cost you thousands of dollars, so inspecting before you seal the deal can give you peace of mind.
3. Mold
Leaks can cause water damage and encourage mold growth. Areas with hot temperatures all year can be highly humid, contributing to mold. Beyond being an eye sore and threatening the structure, mold can cause serious health issues, especially for people with compromised immune systems.
Mold can grow within 12 to 24 hours of contact with wet conditions and be visible within three days. If your potential home has mold issues, it may be visible when you look around the space. Some telltale signs of mold infestation include peeling wallpaper, a meaty smell resembling rotten wood, and dark spots on the walls and ceiling. However, sometimes mold is invisible and does not emit any odor.
An inspector can sample the air, water leakage and surfaces and use thermal imaging to determine if mold is present. You may need to call a mold remediation company to eliminate the issue.
4. Electrical
New homes must have updated electrical and wiring work, but older houses may need to meet current standards. If ignored, this can disrupt service, raise bills and even cause electrical fires.
If you’re purchasing an older home, hire a professional to examine it for exposed outlets, open wiring, a lack of power, buzzing sounds and frayed wires. An electrician can help repair these issues and ensure the house has proper electrical wiring and service.
5. Plumbing
If the plumbing system has clogged or broken parts or leakage, it could contribute to more significant problems like foundational damage or mold growth. Sometimes, professionals who inspect other parts of your house, like the roof, identify plumbing issues.
Inspection professionals examine sink and faucet connections, plumbing in the washrooms and other areas, water heaters and dishwasher lines. They also evaluate water pressure and drainage systems.
6. HVAC Systems
This often-overlooked system is one of the most integral parts of home inspection. A well-functioning HVAC system ensures optimal temperature throughout the year and reduces harmful carbon monoxide exposure. If neglected, it could cause uneven heating and cooling and waste energy. Also, check the thermostat when you inspect the house. If there are abnormalities, it might be a sign to call professionals.
An expert inspection can assess the system’s condition, including thermostat calibration, air flow, filters and electrical supply. It can also identify underlying issues and recommend repair, maintenance or replacement.
7. Radon
Radon is an invisible, tasteless and odorless gas that enters a house through cracks and crevices and increases the risk of lung cancer. Georgia’s granite-rich soil makes it more susceptible to radon — the poisonous gas causes 800 deaths annually in the state. Radon inspection should be part of your inspection checklist.
Test kits are available, but if you need help, professionals can determine the gas level in your home. There are no safe levels of this gas, but if your home has more than 4.0 picocuries per liter, contact radon remediation services.
8. Pest
Pests like bed bugs, cockroaches, termites and rats are health hazards. In addition to causing structural damage to the house, they cause hygiene and contamination issues and carry deadly diseases. Contact inspectors if you notice droppings, gnaw marks, rotten wood, nests or strange noises in the crawl space.
Experts can help identify the kind of pest, where it is, the size of the infestation and how long it has been there. Some inspection companies also have pest control services. Investing in this inspection will keep your home pest-free for years.
Comprehensive Inspection Ensures a Peaceful Moving In
The type of inspection you choose depends on many factors, including the house’s age and condition. However, getting complete inspections for every part of your home, especially an older home, is paramount to having a smooth move-in and occupancy experience.
