One of the most common issues discovered during a home inspection is water damage. A simple leaky faucet or clogged drain can be costly, but plumbing problems can be more serious. If you are not a plumber yourself, you may not know that plumbing problems can be caused by DIY plumbing, cross-connection issues, or old, outdated pipes. While this type of problem isn’t always the most serious, it can be a costly problem that makes it unsafe for occupants.
Termites
Termites are the most costly wood-insect infestation. They are very hard to notice, and damage is usually found before they are spotted. If you suspect you have a problem with termites, you’ll need to hire a professional pest control service. Termite infestations can be hard to detect, but the first signs to look out for are the swarming and wings of the termites. Look out for wood rot and damage to drywall. Termites can also eat the drywall and subfloor, so make sure to check the areas below. A poor gutter system is another sign of termite damage.
Carpenter ants
If your house is plagued by carpenter ants, the best way to control them is to take preventative measures. While you can use insecticides, these pests aren’t likely to leave your home, so it’s vital to treat the problem early. One effective way to get rid of carpenter ants is to use carpenter ant poison. These are available in granule form, and you should follow instructions carefully.
Warped or broken windows
Regardless of whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced property inspector, you should be aware of common problems with windows and doors. Poorly maintained windows can lead to drafts and can strain your HVAC system. Other common problems include broken sashes and doors. If you find them, consider replacing them for a more attractive curb appeal. In addition to reducing energy costs, new windows also improve the appearance of a property.
Broken doors
When a home inspector looks at the interior of a home, he will usually focus on broken or malfunctioning doors. This is because interior doors rarely get mentioned in the model building codes. Broken doors, in particular, can lead to many issues for a house. You should fix any problems with doors before listing your home for sale. But before you do that, let’s look at some of the common problems with doors.
Mold
While mildew and mold in the shower are harmless and easily removed, mold and other indoor contaminants can cause health problems and damage the house. Mold, which is a living organism, feeds on organic materials such as wood and paper and can break down textiles. It is capable of eating through drywall, paper covering drywall, wood, carpet, and wallpaper. Fortunately, there are several ways to spot mold in your home and take action to mitigate it.
Violations of building codes
Many common home inspection findings reveal violations of building codes. For example, missing handrails alongside stairs or decking are both violations of housing codes. While general inspectors may not look at code compliance, an independent home inspector will provide an in-depth visual inspection and written professional opinion based on best practices. One recent study found an increasing trend of code violations in new homes. In addition, building code violations can prevent a home from being built or sold.
