Owning a home is an exciting and major milestone in your life, but it does require some effort. At some point, every homeowner encounters problems that need to be repaired to keep the property in good shape. Here’s a list of eight common concerns of homeowners.
Problems and Concerns that Homeowners Face
Water Pooling Near the Foundation
If water accumulates around the base of your home, it may mean that your property isn’t appropriately graded. Poor grading and drainage can cause the foundation to deteriorate if left unresolved. In extreme cases, it may result in basement flooding. If you notice water pooling by the foundation, contact a professional to assess the situation.
Concerns of Homeowners: Plumbing Problems
Plumbing concerns are fairly common. Problems like slow drains, leaky pipes, and low water pressure may seem small, but they could signify bigger underlying problems. If you notice any of these issues or suspect other plumbing problems, contact a professional. Plumbing issues can lead to water damage that is costly to repair if not resolved immediately.
Roofing Problems
The roof protects the structure of your home from the elements. Common home concerns associated with roofing include missing or loose shingles and missing or faulty flashings, to name a few. These problems may allow water intrusion and jeopardize your home’s structure if ignored. Hire a professional to handle roofing problems before they get worse.
Electrical Concerns of Homeowners
Electrical issues like old wiring and poor connections are problems that can endanger your life and property because they put your home at risk of electrical fires. If you notice strange smells or smoke from the outlets or dim and flickering lights, consult an electrician immediately to troubleshoot and make repairs.
Termite Damage
Termites can cause significant damage that may go unnoticed because they destroy the structure from the inside out. While often inconspicuous, common signs of a termite infestation include visible mazes in wooden beams and mud tubes at your home’s foundation. To keep termites at bay, schedule an annual termite inspection.
HVAC Problems
HVAC systems require regular maintenance to operate efficiently. If you hear strange sounds like squealing or squeaking from your HVAC system, it may be experiencing issues. A decline in your home’s indoor air quality can also indicate the HVAC system has not been well-maintained. Schedule a routine HVAC checkup to resolve any issues with the system and improve your indoor air quality.
Security Issues
Defective locks at entry points put your property at risk. Fix faulty door locks and make sure windows latch securely. Installing exterior lights will not only improve nighttime visibility, but they’ll also deter burglars. Motion-sensing lights above the garage door and in the side yard will help to boost home security.
High Radon Levels
Radon is a naturally occurring gas. Because it’s radioactive, it may cause severe respiratory problems. Radon is found in low concentrations in many homes, but sometimes levels are higher than what is considered acceptable. To check the radon levels in your home, have a professional conduct a test. They can recommend mitigation measures if dangerous levels of radon are found.
The issues above are some of the common concerns you may encounter as a homeowner. Address these problems immediately to prevent damage to your home or risk to your health.
Premier Home & Building Inspections provides inspection to buyers and sellers in Eastern Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Contact us to schedule our services.