9 Problem Areas Often Found in Home Inspections

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When you’re buying a new home, a home inspection is an important part of the process. Do your research to find a licensed home inspector.  You can also get some tips from your realtor. Your College Station realtor will be able to help you because her clients have worked with many local inspectors. 

No house is perfect. Some issues found during the inspection are no big deal, while others could cost a lot to fix. Knowing the difference is important. When an inspection turns up a problem, make sure to get as many details as possible. If necessary, you might want to get a repair estimate or two in order to make sure you know what you are getting into.  Some repairs can be delayed while others are more pressing concerns. 

These are some of the most common problem areas:

1. Roofing: issues with roofing may be caused by improper installation, age, and wear, or storm damage. These can range from a minor repair of a few shingles to needing a new roof. 

2. Water heater/Plumbing: Whether it’s a problem with the water heater itself, or the area it sits in not being up to code, this one can vary in how much time and money will be needed to fix it.  

3. HVAC: It could be air flow, simply needing a new air filter, code violations, combustion issues, as well as other issues may arise. Some are very cheap and easy to fix. 

4. Electrical: This can be anything from a single DIY outlet project a former owner has undertaken, or it can be a larger issue that should be given attention. Also, the circuit breaker panel may be out of date and not up to current code.  

5. Foundation: As with any other issue, you need to get as many details as possible. Your inspector may recommend that the foundations be evaluated by a professional. Repair costs can be anywhere from $500 to over $10,000. 

6. Appliances: It’s important that every appliance that is coming with the house be checked to make sure it’s in working order. It’s also a good idea to ask if they are under warranty.

7. Walls, floors, ceilings, and windows can have many minor defects that aren’t a big concern. But there are other issues that might warrant further investigation. Windows and doors should be checked for a good seal. It’s also important to look for signs of rotting wood and termite damage.

8. Environmental issues: Mold, lead-based paint, radon, and asbestos are all concerning, Your inspector may suggest that it be evaluated by a professional to see how extensive the problem, if any, really is. 

9. Drainage: You want to make sure that any property you purchase can handle a little rain. You might not see a problem yourself when you see the property during a hot Texas summer, but your inspector will. Water damage is expensive to repair, so having an inspector find signs of a potential problem could save you money in the future.

Buying a home may be the largest investment you ever make, so making sure you have all the facts ahead of time is vital. If you’re still concerned after the inspection that something may go wrong, you may be able to negotiate for a home warranty or buy one yourself. That way your real estate investment will have additional protection. 

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