Before purchasing real estate, it's essential that you hire an experienced home inspector. This professional will look for anything that can cause expensive problems once you buy the home, allowing you to request repairs from the owner or get the work done yourself. Here are just some of the water-related issues inspectors look for, and why it's important to identify them before you finalize the deal.

Water Problems a Home Inspector May Find

1. Pipe Corrosion & Leaks

The home inspector will look for broken and corroded pipes that can cause leaks and water damage. Breaks commonly occur from freezing issues, tree and shrub root infiltration, severe clogs, and old age. Find out whether the pipes are original and get them replaced if necessary to prevent water damage that can lead to rot and mold growth.

2. Ceiling & Wall Stains

Yellow and brown stains on ceilings and walls indicate that water is trapped behind the surfaces, usually because of roof leaks or damaged pipes. Not only are the stains unsightly, but they can also mean mold growth is present. Most molds require dark, damp environments to thrive, which is why they're typically behind walls and within ceilings.

3. Wet Roof Underlayment

Your home's roofing system should resist the elements, not invite them in. If the underlayment or framing is rotting from excessive moisture, it can cause dangerous partial collapses. Mold growth is also possible, which will compromise the home's safety. Mold is an allergen that can cause health problems, and it also breaks down organic materials, including wood framing.

4. Musty Odors & Mold

Basements and attics without sufficient waterproofing and ventilation typically feature musty smells, which may indicate the presence of hidden mold. Alternatively, visible mold often indicates a severe infestation. Any infestation more than 10 square feet requires professional remediation to avoid accidentally inhaling spores, which makes this a potentially expensive problem to fix.

 

To feel perfectly confident about your real estate investment, work with the team at New Home Inspectors. Serving all of Long Island, NY, since 2001, these inspectors work with buyers, investors, and small businesses, and are CPI-certified. Call (631) 368-1800 today to schedule an inspection, or learn more about how they can help you online.