subject: Why Home Inspections Are Important [print this page] Purchasing a home is going to be one of the largest and most important purchases in a person's life. Tens of thousands of dollars will be on the line with a purchase of a home and for that reason it is important to have a thorough home inspection performed. A professional inspector will go through the home for problem areas. In most circumstances, major underlying issues will impact the overall value of the home. It is important to find these problems before the sale of the house is final. Once the sale is final, it is up to the new homeowner to fix any problems that may surface in the years to come.
Inspectors should look throughout the home for any signs of water damage. Indications of water damage may include peeling paint, paint that appears wrinkled, sagging or bumpy spots on ceilings, uneven or soft floors, and mold or mildew. Water damage can be very a costly repair and may also affect the integrity of the house.
Pest infestation such as termites will also be another thing to look for. If there are exposed beams in the basement and/or attic they will be inspected for termite damage. Pest infestation is another costly problem and can damage the structure of the home.
If the home has a crawlspace it should be inspected as well. Inspectors will look for signs of termite damage, moisture or cracks along the foundation, rotting wood, ease of access, and dampness. It is easy to overlook this part of an inspection, but it is essential that it be checked to ensure the safety of the home.
Inspectors also check the many different electrical panels and outlets around your house. They review panels to make sure that the connections inside them are functioning properly. Things like double tapping breakers, corrosion or rust, and handyman wiring are all things that are carefully looked for when going over a house. Not only this, but inspectors will check every accessible outlet to make sure that they are also up to standard.
Decks and porches should be inspected to insure that they are safe and secure. Water drainage should be addressed by insuring the ground slopes away from the house and that there is no standing water in the yard. These are a few important areas that a professional inspector will look at during an inspection to be sure there are no underlying issues before purchasing a home.
