Red Flags in Pre-Purchase Property Inspections
Buying residential real estate can be exciting and terrifying at the same time. A home purchase is a huge investment, and the goal is to ensure everything is as advertised. A pre-purchase property inspection is not mandatory in Connecticut, but while not infallible, an inspection can potentially uncover a wide variety of home issues.
Connecticut’s homes range from colonial to modern, and the state’s weather conditions include everything from heavy snowfall to coastal storm surges. Having a detailed report on a home could save you tens of thousands of dollars. Suppose you move into your new home and the HVAC system fails the first week you are living there. The replacement or repair costs could be significant.
A home inspection could have identified the issue, allowing you to request a lower price on the home or ask that the owner fix the problem. An experienced Stamford, CT real estate attorney can help ensure your purchase is everything you dream of.
What Issues in a Pre-Purchase Home Inspection Report are Big Red Flags?
If you have specific concerns about a home, specialized home inspections can be requested to check for age-related issues, flood risk, mold or moisture in attics or basements, water quality, or the presence of radon. A basic pre-purchase home inspection should uncover the following issues that could drain your excitement over your new home and your wallet. These include:
High, Low, or Wildly Fluctuating Water Pressure
Hidden leaks, large mineral deposits in pipes, or old, corroded pipes can contribute to low water pressure. Overly high water pressure can lead to the breakdown of appliances and fixtures. The inspector will check the water pressure for your report, but you can also check it yourself if the water is turned on. If you hear a whistling sound coming from the pipes, it takes forever to fill up the kitchen sink, a tap or showerhead "spits" when turned on, you see a leaky faucet, or the toilet is running when it has not been used, these are all plumbing red flags.
Be Wary of New Paint Jobs
While a fresh coat of paint can perk up a home, it can also cover things like cracks, mold, mildew, and even termite damage. A trained property inspector knows how to look beyond the shiny new paint to what lies below, especially stained areas on walls or bubbling paint that can indicate a water leak. The inspector will look for solid wall structures and weak or buckling tiles in kitchens and baths. A damp smell, mold, or mildew spots can also indicate water build-up beneath the surface.
Electrical Damage
The inspector will check to see if there are GFIs where needed and if all electrical lights and sockets are in good working order. Flickering or dimming lights, electrical outlets that feel warm to the touch, or any interruption in electrical wiring signifies a problem that could be expensive to fix. If you should later find out that you are unable to vacuum in one room while the microwave is being used in the kitchen, you may wish you had paid more attention to an electrical red flag in your report.
Faulty Foundations
A faulty foundation can be one of the most expensive problems a home can encounter. Foundation cracks, both inside and outside, could mean major structural defects. Sticking doors, gaps around window frames, and sagging floors can all point to foundation issues.
Roof Damage
Shingle roofs require replacement every 12 -15 years. If the inspector notes missing or curling shingles, the roof may be at the end of its lifespan. A metal roof has significantly more longevity, but if it is not installed correctly, there can be leaks on the seams, which can damage inside ceilings and walls.
Contact a Fairfield County, CT Residential Real Estate Lawyer
Real estate transactions can be complex. Numerous legal documents must be prepared, reviewed, and revised, so having an experienced Stamford, CT residential real estate attorney from Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner can be beneficial. You will receive comprehensive, personalized legal guidance whether you are the buyer or seller in a transaction. Call 203-348-5846 to schedule your free consultation.