4 Critical Parts of a Good Home Inspection

An older house may have a lot more character and charm than a newer one, but it also may have maintenance problems that stretch the term, “fixer-upper.” Obviously, the cost of a good home inspection will save you way more money (and headaches) in the long run. Your home inspection should be performed by a licensed, certified, and experienced professional. Let’s take a look at 4 critical parts of a house that should be covered in any home inspection.

1. Electrical

We all know how dangerous faulty wiring is, as I discussed recently in my post on 5 Tips to Help You Pass a Home Electrical Inspection. There are a few things that home sellers should look for to keep their home safe and attractive for sale. Check outlets for three prongs, which reduces the risk of electrical shock, and see if they have reset buttons. Check the breaker box, too; fuse systems should really be upgraded to more modern systems.

2. Plumbing

A piping system comprised of outdated materials like cast iron and lead can be trouble. So can thin copper. Your home inspector should check the grade of copper (to ensure it meets current specs) and also for any visible signs of corrosion and leaking. Of course, testing the water pressure to make sure that there aren’t any issues with blockage is part of any good inspection.

3. Foundation

You can do a lot to check for any potential signs of trouble with the foundation. Are there any visible cracks in the walls – outside or inside? Check for water runs on the walls, floors, and ceilings, especially in cellars and below-ground garages. Insects usually indicate cracks in your walls. And large cracks can indicate that your home is shifting under the stress of harsh weather.

4. Roof

Roofs won’t hide their many signs of distress, and much of that is caused by uneven surfacing. Sagging, with water pooling across low points, is usually the culprit. Black streaks across shingles can expose a mold and rotting problem. Don’t forget to go up to your attic to check the beams for moisture or rot.

What kind of experiences have you had as a homeowner of an older house? Tell me in the comments below!

And if you’re looking to buy or sell a house in the Albuquerque area, contact me today!