WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — With interest rates at a new low, home buying is on the rise. It's a great time to finally land that dream property, but a dream can quickly turn into a nightmare if certain aspects are overlooked in the home inspection. Here are tips from 4 Service Pros to set your mind at ease.
Make sure sewer lines are in check. This is often neglected in the home inspection, yet it's one of the most expensive systems to repair. Pipes installed years ago may be on the brink of collapse. Acidic cleaning products used over time can cause damage to certain materials, so pipes need to be inspected for corrosion.
Get up to date on the HVAC system. A home inspector can confirm the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems are all working properly at the time, but they can't necessarily guarantee longevity. Make sure to inquire how long the air conditioning condenser (the outside unit) should last. This can be easily determined by checking the serial number.
Get the electric system up to speed. If you've just bought an older home (built anytime from 1880 to 1940), the home inspector should look out for knob and tube wiring. This out-dated system is typically ungrounded, which runs the risk of causing electric shock. Most home inspectors will suggest these systems be replaced to decrease the chances of shock, overheating, and electrical fires.
This article is sponsored by 4 Service Pros.
Additional information provided by Curbed.com.
