HIDDEN HOME DEFECTS TO WATCH FOR

No home is flawless, but certain physical problems can be expensive. When you are touring homes watch out for the items below. But most importantly, a home inspection will thoroughly examine and likely expose whether the home suffers from any of these issues. Find a professional and competent home inspector on our referrals page.

1. Water leaks. Look for stains on ceilings and near the baseboards, especially in basements or attics.

2. Shifting foundations. Look for large cracks along the home's foundation.

3. Drainage. Look for standing water, either around the foundation of the home or in the yard.

4. Termites. Look for weakened or grooved wood, especially near ground level.

5. Worn roofs. Look for broken or missing copings and buckled shingles as well as water spots on ceilings.

6. Inadequate wiring. Look for antiquated fuse boxes, extension cords (indicating insufficient outlets), and outlets without a place to plug in the grounding prong.

7. Plumbing problems. Very low water pressure, banging in pipes.