Purchasing a home in Rochester Hills, MI is an exciting milestone. But don’t let your dream home turn into a nightmare down the road. Hiring a professional home inspector to thoroughly evaluate the property before closing is crucial for identifying any red flags that could become major headaches later on. Read on to learn the top hazards a quality Home Inspection Rochester Hills looks for that you’ll want to avoid.
Ignoring these issues now could cost you thousands in repairs and diminish your home’s livability and value over time. Don’t become a statistic by overlooking these Rochester Hills home inspection deal breakers.
Faulty Electrical Systems
From outlets and light fixtures to main service panels and wiring, Home Inspection Rochester Hills electrical evaluations identify fire and shock hazards that must be addressed. Watch for outdated fuse boxes, aluminum wiring, loose connections, lack of grounding, and insufficient amperage for home needs. Licensed electricians can estimate repair costs for any deficiencies.
Water Damage
Inspectors use moisture meters to check for dampness in walls and floors that may indicate larger water intrusion issues from leaky pipes, exterior sealants, or foundation cracks. Water damage left unaddressed can spur mold growth and structural issues. Don’t ignore signs of excess moisture during your Rochester Hills home inspection.
Heating and Cooling Problems
Aging furnaces and AC units operate inefficiently and are prone to breakdowns. Home inspectors assess lifespan, test functionality, and check for issues like rusted parts, leaky ductwork, or insufficient airflow. Be prepared to potentially budget for a new HVAC system if yours is outdated or showing signs of wear. Proper heating and cooling prevent comfort and indoor air quality issues.
Roofing Concerns
Your inspector will closely evaluate the roof’s condition, looking for damaged shingles, sagging areas, leaks, and age-related wear and tear. Be concerned if your Rochester Hills home’s roof covering is nearing the end of its usable lifespan or shows signs of structural issues. Roof replacements are costly, so know where your roof stands.
Foundation Cracks
Small foundation cracks are common, but medium or large cracks can indicate shifting, settling, or expansive soils that will worsen over time. Inspectors look for foundation problems like tilting walls, cracks in brick mortar, and doors/windows out of level. Major foundation repairs run $10,000+, so identify needs early.
Pest or Termite Damage
Inspectors look closely for signs of wood-destroying insects like termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles which can cause extensive structural damage if left untreated. Get a professional pest inspection if your home inspector notices any concerns like frass or wood rot. Address infestations promptly before they escalate.
Plumbing Leaks
Inspectors run all plumbing and fixtures and check pipe conditions to identify leaks, clogged drains, low water pressure, rust, improper materials, and more. Leaky pipes can destroy walls or floors over time. Know if your Rochester Hills home’s plumbing system needs repairs or future replacing to prevent water damage issues.
Outdated Sewer Lines
Sewer scopes can reveal cracked drain pipes, root intrusion, leaks, and blockages that may require expensive excavation and sewer line replacement. If your home has older sewer piping, get a sewer scope before closing to avoid costly repairs down the road. Don’t skip this important inspection.
Chimney Issues
Chimney inspections help spot blockages, cracks, disintegrating bricks or mortar, and improper installation that increase fire risks. Don’t assume your Rochester Hills home’s chimney is safe—inspectors recommend a full chimney inspection to protect your home.
There’s no such thing as a perfect home. But being aware of major red flags before purchase allows you to negotiate seller credits and plan/budget for upcoming repairs or replacements. Partner with a top-rated home inspector serving Rochester Hills to identify issues that could become major headaches later on. Don’t become a homeowner horror story—let a Home Inspection Rochester Hills protect your investment!