In most cases, it’s mandatory to have an inspection before selling a home. An older home may have generated problems along the way that need to be addressed before it’s sold.
RELATED: 13 things you should do before a home inspector comes
These are the seven major things that need to be addressed before the home is sold.
1. Roof
The roof is often the most overlooked part of the home but is just as important as any other aspect of the house. A roof protects you from the weather, sun, and other elements. A few missing shingles isn’t anything to worry about, but large missing areas or damp regions are things to have fixed before you buy the home. These repairs can be expensive or get worse over time.
2. Structural issues
These issues can be found in the attic or crawl space. Broken or brittle wood or cracked cement is a sign of a worn foundation. It’s expensive to replace or repair the structure of a home — you want to have a home with strong bones that will last for years to come.
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3. Electrical
Electrical issues can be dangerous if not inspected. Ask an electrition to look at the wiring, GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter), outlets, and breaker box for hazardous concerns. It’s best to know the whole story before buying a home.
4. Plumbing
It can be hard to know what’s going on with pipes behind the walls and under the home. Many inspectors will look for Polybutylene pipes, which are pipes that were banned in 1995. They were known for being leaky and not reliable. Leaky pipes can cause pools of water behind walls and create mold. If you are unsure about the condition of the plumbing or want another opinion, ask a professional plumber to take a look.
TIP: Septic takes and wells are separate from plumbing and should be looked at too.
5. Water damage
Speaking of mold, water damage can be a huge risk when buying a home. Water can cause structural integrity issues, wood rot, mold growth, and can create an environment that allows termites to thrive (#7). Water damage may be the most expensive of fixes because it causes so much damage. The source needs to be repaired and the damaged area needs fixing.
6. Heating and cooling
If the heating a cooling system has been taken care of properly, it can last from 10 to 20 years. Proper sealing and ductwork will keep it running smoothly for a long time. An HVAC technician can look at the system if you need an extra pair of professional eyes. A full unit replacement can cost upwards of $4,000.
7. Termites
These little pests make their way into the wood structure when it’s moist outside. A foundation is important because it holds the home up in storms, earthquakes, and minor flooding. If termites infiltrate the foundation, there’s no guarantee the home will last. It’s best to verify that these creatures are not in the new home before you move in.
Analytical Home Inspection is owned and operated by Cory Maynard, a licensed and practicing home inspector in Eugene, Oregon. Cory leads the local inspection industry with the most thorough and complete structural inspections available, providing easy to read digital reports. Schedule an inspection today before you sell or buy.