Terrible Things
in a Home Inspection to Walk Away From
Buying a home is a big decision, and one of the most important
steps in the process is getting a home inspection. A home inspection is a
visual examination of the home's major systems, from the foundation to the
roof. It's designed to give you a clear picture of the home's condition and any
potential problems that could need to be addressed.
While most home inspections will uncover some minor issues,
there are some things that should be considered dealbreakers. These are the
things that could cost you a lot of money and heartache down the road.
1. Foundation problems
The foundation is the backbone of your home, and if it's not in
good condition, it can cause major problems. Cracks in the foundation, uneven
floors, and bowing walls are all signs of foundation problems. These problems
can be expensive to fix, and they can also lead to other problems, such as
water damage and structural instability.
2. Major roof problems
The roof is another one of the most important parts of your
home. It protects you from the elements, and if it's not in good condition, it
can cause major problems. Leaks, missing shingles, and sagging rooflines are
all signs of major roof problems. These problems can be expensive to fix, and
they can also lead to water damage and mold growth.
3. Extensive water damage
Water damage is one of the most common problems that homes face.
It can be caused by a variety of things, such as leaks, floods, and poor
drainage. Water damage can lead to a variety of problems, including mold
growth, structural damage, and rot. If you see extensive water damage during
your home inspection, it's best to walk away.
4. Termites or other pests
Termites and other pests can cause major damage to your home.
They can eat away at wood, insulation, and even wiring. If you see evidence of
termites or other pests during your home inspection, it's important to get a
professional exterminator to take a look. In some cases, termite damage can be
so extensive that it's not worth fixing. Tenting or spraying can kill them but
they are back in six months if you don’t remove the water or tubes or access to
dinner. They make holes in everything made of natural materials. Painting or
puddy over to hide the damage only encourages more trouble. I'm not going to talk about other vermin here, but openings to the attic and floor are doors for creatures.
5. Unpermitted work
If you see any unpermitted work during your home inspection,
it's a red flag. This means that the work was done without the proper permits
from the city or county. Unpermitted work can be dangerous and it can also make
it difficult to sell your home in the future. I have a handy neighbor who
moonlights as, well likes to think he is Kevin O’Conner from This Old House but
in reality he has no license, no knowledge, and yes his jeans fall down exposing
his back side. Fake Kevin likes to cut corners and hide the mistakes.
6. Asbestos or lead paint
Asbestos and lead paint are both hazardous materials that can be
found in older homes. If you see evidence of either of these materials during
your home inspection, it's important to have them tested by a professional.
Asbestos and lead paint can be expensive to remove, and they can also pose a
health risk to you and your family. You are required by law to disclose lead
and asbestos when you sell as they can cause cancer and birth defects.
7. Knob-and-tube wiring
Knob-and-tube wiring is an old type of electrical wiring that is
no longer up to code. It's a fire hazard, and it should be replaced by a
qualified electrician. You will recognize the round porcelain discs. Thie is an
old electrical wiring system. Two copper wires, one hot and one neutral, run
through ceramic or porcelain knobs and tubes. The knobs hold the wire in place, often in contact with a component of the
house, such as wooden beams. The tubes run the wires through the frame, keeping them from
fraying or away from flammable materials.
8. Mold
Mold is a fungus that can grow in damp or humid environments.
It can cause respiratory problems and other health problems. If you see mold
during your home inspection, it's important to have it tested by a
professional. There are thousands of types of mold, some cause health problems,
some just common fuzz. Leaking water, old failing roof, water heaters, and
plumbing fixtures are often the source of the original problem. If left
untreated the mold expands and grows.
9. Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can cause lung
cancer. It's important to test for radon in your home if you live in an area
where radon levels are high. You may need a professional to run the test.
I would not buy a kit from Home Depot or Temu.
10. Sinkholes
Sinkholes are large holes in the ground that can be caused by
a variety of things, such as erosion or the collapse of underground caverns. If
you see a sinkhole on the property, it's important to have it inspected by a
geotechnical engineer.
If you see any of these things during your home inspection,
it's important to talk to your inspector and your real estate agent. They can
help you decide whether or not to walk away from the deal. It's important to
remember that it's better to walk away from a bad deal than to buy a home that
could cost you a lot of money and heartache down the road.
