There could be a lot of problems with your new home. Here are the top 10 potential problems in home inspections as reported by the American Society of Home Inspectors.
- Older and damaged roofs. Asphalt shingle roofs only last about 15 to 20 years. Leakage from the roof from old and or damaged shingles is common and usually an easy fix.
- Plumbing problems. Included are old piping materials, faulty fixtures and waste lines and incorrectly strapped hot water heaters.
- Deficient and older heating systems. This could include broken controls, blocked chimney ways, dangerous exhaust fumes and cracked heat exchangers.
- Improper surface grading and drainage. This is the most common problem and is responsible for cracked slabs and water penetration of the basement, footings, or crawlspace.
- Poor overall maintenance. Americans are notorious for taking poor care of their homes letting surfaces become cracked, start peeling, or dirty, crumbling masonry, etc.
- Improper and undersized electrical wiring. This would include insufficient electrical service to the house, aluminum wiring, inadequate overload protection, improper grounding and dangerous amateur wiring connections.
- Structural problems. Although not usually serious, damage to structural components such as foundation walls, floor joists, rafters, or window and door headers are common.
- Poor ventilation. Often times, homeowners will over-seal their homes in an effort to save energy but will only result in creating excessive indoor moisture.
- Exterior items. Windows, door and wall surface flaws are responsible for air drafts and water penetration.
- Miscellaneous items. Usually various interior items such as sticky windows or dripping faucets.