Common Issues Found in a Home Inspection
As a home buyer, you schedule a home inspection to identify issues with the home so you can make an informed purchasing decision. Our goal when we conduct a home inspection is to offer the best information based on our evaluation. At the end of the inspection, we produce a written report you can use to determine if you want to request repairs from the seller as part of the purchase negotiations.
While we can’t see through walls, we do provide a thorough review of the home. We often find common issues with homes in southeast Florida. Many of these issues are easy to repair; however, some are costly and could impact whether you want to purchase the home.
Common Problems Found in Home Inspections
Roof Problems
Roof repairs are expensive. Therefore, it’s important to know the condition of the roof before you buy. We look for issues like damaged, missing or worn shingles. We also often find broken or missing flashings. Clogged or dirty gutters also often point to a home that lacks good home maintenance.
Plumbing Issues
According to the EPA, one leaky faucet can waste 3,000 gallons of water per year. Multiply that by several leaky faucets, and you’ll experience a negative impact on your water bill. Other common plumbing issues include: slow drains, cracked fixtures and low water pressure. We specifically look for water marks on ceilings as they often indicate a water leak on the second floor.
Foundation Cracks
Cracks in the foundation, slab or foundation walls may indicate a structural issue. Homes settle over time and cracking can occur. Yet, the type of crack or crack pattern points to the severity of the problem. If we find a foundational crack, we usually recommend a follow up with a structural engineer. It’s risky to purchase a home without resolving foundation issues.
Damaged Windows and Doors
Many homes have issues with windows and doors. For windows, we often find broken panes or locks, cracks and air leaks. Broken windows create safety risks and higher energy bills because of heat transfer. With doors, we inspect both interior and exterior doors. We identify issues like doors that won’t close or latch and broken locks.
HVAC and Water Heater Issues
The home’s HVAC unit is one of the most expensive systems in a home. Dirty or poor HVAC maintenance is a red flag. We also look for leaks, loud noises when running and proper ventilation. We consider the age of the unit and recommend replacement for old units. For water heaters, we look at similar concerns, like leaks and ventilation to verify the unit works properly.
Schedule a Home Inspection Before You Purchase a Home
Unless you waive your rights, you have the option to schedule a home inspection prior to purchasing a home. This is a smart step! In fact, finding only one issue that the seller then repairs makes the home inspection worth it. Your home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. You want to insure it’s in good shape so you can feel confident at the closing. Plus, you don’t want any major repair surprises after you move in.
Contact Kenco Home Inspections to schedule a home inspection for your southeast Florida home.