A home purchase is one of the biggest investments that the average person will ever make. To protect said investment, it is essential to obtain a comprehensive overview of the condition of the house you are about to purchase. A home inspection will provide you with this valuable information. A home inspection contingency is part of a standard purchase contract. It allows the buyer an opportunity to have a licensed home inspector perform a full evaluation of the home. Wondering what is usually found during a home inspection? Here are 5 common issues typically found.
Poor Site Drainage
A common issue observed a is poor site drainage. Poor drainage could result from a combination of two things – the roof drainage as well as the ground slope. Standard house drainage systems consist of gutters and downspouts. Water collects in the gutters and is directed away from the home via the downspouts. Drainage is further facilitated with devices such as downspout extensions and splash blocks. Water flow away from the home is also facilitated by the landscape. The ground that surrounds the home should slope away from the home. Sometimes, due to the topography and other reasons, the ideal slope cannot be obtained. In that case, a french drain is recommended.
If there are defects in the drainage system, water will not direct away from the home as intended. As a result, water can—and often will—accumulate close to the foundation of the home. And that, in-turn, can lead to water intrusion issues. Missing downspout extensions and/or splash blocks, as well as misaligned, damaged and/or clogged gutters are all issues that contribute to drainage problems. These are all defects that are in most cases, an easy and relatively inexpensive fix.
No GFCI Outlets
No GFCI outlets installed near sinks is one of the most common findings during home inspections. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are devices that protect against electrical shock. If a ground fault is detected GFCIs are designed to shut off the power. Modern construction standards require that GFCIs be located in areas that are at a high risk for shock, specifically in bathrooms, laundry rooms or anywhere close to water.
Moisture Intrusion in Basement
Moisture intrusion in the basement can be the result of poor drainage, however, there can be other causes, as well. For example, water can enter the home through cracks in the foundation. Also, failed seals can allow water to enter into the home. Broken windows and roofs that leak are other means of water entry. As a matter of fact, any opening in the home’s exterior can allow water to enter.
Drains and Faucets that Leak
It is quite common to find drains and faucets that leak. Pipes that leak, can be the result of poor workmanship or due to simple wear and tear. This defect should be addressed immediately as an unrepaired leak can lead to thousands of dollars in damage.
No Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. The NFPA reports that almost three out of five dire related deaths occurred in homes without smoke alarms. All homes should have smoke detectors installed on all levels of the home. All homes that use fuel and have an attached garage should have carbon monoxide detectors installed. Many times, smoke detectors are installed but do not operate as they should. Homes without smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are at risk and so this is reported as a safety hazard that should be addressed immediately.
These are just a few of the common issues that we encounter when we inspect a home. To learn more about the kinds of issues we look for when we inspect your prospective home, visit us online at www.sneadhomeinspections.com today.
