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4 Things to Look Out for When Inspecting a Home

If you are buying a new home, one of the steps you should not skip is the inspection. A thorough examination will reveal the issues that you might have overlooked during the walkthrough. Depending on your state, realtors are legally mandated to disclose issues the house might have to buyers. But it is still best to err on the side of caution. Wouldn’t you rather know any problem now than after you have bought the house?

Hiring a professional to conduct home inspections in Salt Lake City is one of the most important things you must do as a buyer. They lower your exposure to risk by ensuring that the property is in sound condition. A good inspector will give you an honest and unfiltered portrait of the property’s condition.

Here are a few things to look out for when inspecting a home:

  1. Foundation

The building’s foundation isn’t exactly the easiest thing to expect, but there are telltale signs you can look out for that can signify serious issues with the foundation. If there’s something wrong with the foundation, it almost always affects the floor and framework.

The most apparent sign is uneven flooring. If one end of the floor feels uneven, then sinking might have occurred. Cracks on the drywall are also a sign that the framework has shifted. Less visible signs include windows and doors that will not open or close properly, a sign that the structure has tilted to one side. Another thing you should look out for is bulging in masonry walls.

  1. Electrical system

For many people, an inspection of the electrical system means switching the lights on and off. Checking the lights does not reveal much, apart from confirming there is power. Broken light bulbs and wiring can be easily replaced. What you need to check are the power outlets.

If the power outlets look new compared to the age of the house, then it probably means they have been replaced recently. Use a receptacle tester to check if the wiring in the outlet was done correctly. If you come across issues such as reverse polarity, it can signify more serious problems in the electrical system.

  1. Roof

If there are signs of water damage, but there’s nothing wrong with the plumbing, the culprit is probably the roof. A leaky roof can introduce water within the walls, slowly damaging it in the process. While one rainstorm might not have much effect, a small hole left unrepaired can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage down the line.

  1. Plumbing

Checking the plumbing is relatively easy. All you have to do is to look at the pipes and test the drains. Some of the pipes might be leaking, which is why it is vital to isolate the problem pipes early. You also have to run the taps to check for any clogged pipes and drains. Lastly, see if the water pressure is enough for your needs.

These are just some of the things you should look out for when checking the structure. Always work with a professional inspector to ensure everything is covered. If you want to learn a thing or two, you can even accompany them during the inspection.