When searching for a new property, it’s important to research and get all the information you can about a particular home. You want to ensure that you are informed about any issues with the property before signing on the dotted line and taking on ownership.
To make your job easier, here’s a list of 4 key areas to focus on while inspecting a property before purchase:
Table of Contents
Electrical Systems
Electrical systems are a crucial part of any home, and it’s important to know what you’re looking for when inspecting one.
You should take a look at the following:
- Proper grounding: Circuits should be grounded, and all wires should be properly grounded except for some outlets in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Wiring: The wiring should not have exposed wires, especially around light fixtures or switches. It should also be up-to-date according to local codes and regulations. You must use modern wiring methods (such as plastic conduits).
- Circuit breakers/fuses/outlets/switches: All of these should be in working condition. If there are any damaged outlets or switches, replace them. Ground fault interrupters (GFIs) are also important for your and your family’s safety.
Plumbing and Appliances
You’ll want to inspect the pipes, faucets, and fixtures for any signs of damage. If you notice discoloration or rust around the plumbing fixtures, this could indicate problems with the pipes.
Also, look at kitchen sinks and toilets closely for leaks or drips from underneath them—these are signs of faulty installation or parts needing replacing.
Once you’ve looked at the appliances in your new house, test them by turning on water taps and flushing toilets. Then use the dishwasher if one is installed in your potential new home.
You should also check whether there are any problems with running hot water or heating up food in ovens/microwaves/fridges, as these can indicate issues with insulation or appliance age and quality.
Roof, Foundation, and Exterior Components
The roof is one of the most important parts of any house because it prevents water damage from entering through leaks or cracks in its structure. That is why you should consider hiring home inspector in Brampton to rule out the possibility of leaks or damage.
Moreover, foundation issues should also be inspected when purchasing a new property. This is because they can cause major structural problems with your home if left unchecked, such as cracks around windows/doors and walls and bowing floors/floors sloping down toward doorways.
Also, exterior components like siding materials need proper maintenance too. This is because if left unattended for too long due to lack of care, replacement may become necessary, costing more money than anticipated. So always keep them clean during regular inspections.
Heating and Cooling Systems
The heating and cooling system is the heart of your home. It’s important to check that it’s functioning properly, so ensure you get it checked out by home inspector Brampton before buying.
Here are some things to look for:
- The furnace and air conditioning units should be in good condition, with no rust or damage.
- Check all ductwork and vents for leaks or damage. Don’t forget the connections between the ducts and other components, such as humidifiers and filters. Also, check for signs of pests like mice or squirrels entering through vents in attics or walls. This could lead to serious problems with your HVAC system if not addressed immediately.
- Inspect the thermostat and ensure it works properly. Don’t forget about programmable thermostats; make sure they are functioning properly.
Final Word
These are just some of the many things to look for when inspecting a new property before buying it. Remember that even if you find no issues, more serious problems may lurk behind the walls or under the floorboards. It is always important to get multiple inspections by experienced professionals before making such a big financial decision.
