What To Look For During a Home Inspection

Posted Jul. 2nd 2011 under Real Estate Tips

Things To Look For....

Your builder will likely start the inspection inside the home and proceed from room to room.

When examining ceilings, walls, doors and windows you should check for obvious defects such as gouges, cracks and dents on finished surfaces. Doors should be well-fitted, evenly joined around the outside, top and bottom. Locks should be well installed and should not rattle when the door is closed. Drywall should have no noticeable seams or evidence of nail pops.

Walk along floors to ensure there are no excessive squeaks or spring. Subfloor joints should not show ridges around tiles.

Flush toilets and turn on water taps to check water pressure and temperature. Check the caulking and grouting around tiles and tubs for gaps and cracks. Check tubs and sinks for any scratches in the finishes.

If appliances are part of your purchase package, make sure that the builder gives you the instruction booklets and individual warranty packages for them.

Locate the switches for ventilation and circulation fans normally found near the thermostat. Also, ensure that the fans in the bathrooms and in the kitchen are operating properly. Ask your builder to show you where they vent on the exterior of the house.

Outside, check that the brickwork and masonry are free of cracks and the doors and windows are properly caulked. Open and close the garage door to make sure that it does not stick.

The Ten Most Common Home Inspection Problems

1) Improper Surface Grading and Drainage

By far the most frequent problem. It is responsible for the most common household aggravations, including water penetration into the basement or crawlspace. All basements will eventually leak.

2) Improper Electrical Wiring

A number of respondents found this to be a significant defect. This includes such situations as insufficient electrical service, inadequate overload protection, and amateur (often dangerous) wiring connections.

3) Roof Damage

Ranked third, leaking roofs are a frequent problem. This is caused by old or damaged shingles or improper flashing and drainage.

4) Heating Systems

Defect items in this category include broken or malfunctioning controls, blocked chimneys, and unsafe exhaust disposal.

5) Poor Overall Maintenance

This is a common problem with all homeowners. Signs of poor maintenance include cracked, peeling or dirty painted surfaces; crumbling masonry; makeshift wiring or plumbing; and broken fixtures and appliances.

6) Structurally Related Problems

As a result of problems in one or more other categories, damage is sustained by such structural components as foundation walls, floor joists, rafters and window and door headers.

7) Plumbing

Though not ranked as a number one problem, plumbing defects still rank high. This includes the existence of old or incompatible piping materials, as well as faulty fixtures and waste lines.