If you notice horizontal cracks in the basement or cracks that are 1/4 inch wide anywhere on the foundation, you’ll need to consult a structural engineer, as this could indicate a larger issue that may require stabilization repairs such as wall tiebacks or carbon fiber reinforcement.
Mold
The vast majority of homes have some sort of mold growth. Mold will form any place where there’s excessive amounts of moisture. Small amounts of mold around the tub, shower, sink, and even windowsills are normal since water and condensation frequently collect in these areas. These tiny collections of mold don’t pose any immediate hazard.
However, mold on walls and ceilings outside the bathroom and kitchen indicate a widespread problem such as a broken pipe that could cost thousands of dollars to remediate.
[Related: 7 Home Inspection Myths It’s Time to Stop Believing]
Worn roofing
You can find red flags indicative of poor roofing on both the home’s interior and exterior. Outside vegetation that’s touching or in close proximity to the roof typically hides or contributes to roof damage.
Discolored shingles also implicate water damage and previous repairs. Inside the home, water stains on the ceiling could indicate a leaking roof. Freshly painted ceilings or differences in ceiling texture could be a sign that the present owners are attempting to cover up damage.
Since repairing a roof is a significant expense, you’ll want to get a better understanding of its needed repairs or lifespan before attempting to buy or sell a home.
Run-down decks
Approximately 6,000 people are injured annually due to collapsing decks. Over time, a deck’s support posts and beams can deteriorate and compromise its structural integrity.
Industry standards require ledger boards to be bolted to the home with joist hangers. They’re also required to have adequate fall protection, such as handrails. Uneven or sloped boards often signify that the ledger boards or posts are giving way.
The good news is that most deck issues can be prevented with proper maintenance, but any major concerns should be examined by a professional.
Galvanized pipes
Homes built before the 1950s are notorious for using galvanized pipes. These are pipes that are coated in zinc as a way to prevent rusting and are easily identified by their silver-gray color. Galvanized pipes were initially designed to last at most 60 years, meaning most found today are near the end of their lifespan. The pipes have likely corroded inside and could soon breakthrough the zinc coat.
Along with leaks, galvanized pipes are difficult to repair, and rusted pipes can release lead into the water. Especially if a line is used for drinking water, it’s best to get galvanized pipes replaced as soon as possible.
Grading and drainage issues
High grading around the foundation is one of the most common issues identified on inspection reports. The proper minimum clearance between the facade and the soil is 4 to 6 inches. High grades are most commonly found in planter areas. Homeowners often place new mulch without removing the old, creating potential issues.
Ponding water around a foundation can cause a loss of support and settlement. When water sits against the foundation without proper drainage, the ponding can result in wood rot and mold throughout the structure.
Siding, stucco, and stone/brick veneers are not waterproof, so water easily penetrates the exterior walls. If the drainage is blocked, the moisture gets trapped in the wall, promoting more wood rot and mold.
Site grading should always slope away from the foundation for at least 5 feet, and gutter downspouts should always direct water at least 5 feet away from the foundation or deposit into a site drainage system.
HVAC havoc
Inadequate maintenance of the HVAC equipment is another common find. Dirty condenser coils on the air conditioner condenser unit and dirty furnace filters can lead to major repairs. The equipment may be at or near its life expectancy and require replacement. Gas-fired furnaces may not burn properly.
With proper maintenance, an HVAC system can continue to heat and cool the house, but many times heating and cooling systems are “out of sight, out of mind.”
Get peace of mind with a home inspection from NPI
Waiving a home inspection can be a costly decision. Especially in today’s hot market, it may be tempting to forgo the inspection. But in skipping this crucial step in the real estate transaction, you won’t truly know the condition of the property you’re purchasing.
A professional home inspection from National Property Inspections will give you the knowledge to make the right choice. Find your local inspector today so you can complete your investment with confidence.
About Bill Erickson
Bill Erickson has been with National Property Inspections, Inc. since 2001. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and sales management, he heads the corporate advertising functions and the NPI marketing department. Bill also works closely with the NPI National Accounts department, winning commercial business for NPI inspectors across the United States. On a daily basis, Bill handles customer relations and provides marketing training and support to franchise owners.
1Can my IRA purchase real estate that I currently own?
No. This is considered a prohibited transaction (see IRC 4975). You may not purchase a property, or interest in a property, that’s currently owned by a disqualified person, which includes yourself.
2Am I restricted to only purchasing residential property with my IRA?
You are not limited to residential real estate. Your IRA can hold various investment properties such as commercial buildings, vacant land, condominiums, mobile homes and apartment buildings, in addition to residential property.
As Equity Trust Company (“Equity Trust”) is a directed custodian, like any investment, it is your responsibility to conduct your own due diligence before investing and before choosing a provider that is right for you. Equity Trust may, from time to time, establish independent contractor relationships with third-party providers, as provided above, whereby you, as the IRA owner, can have access to third-party providers for services that may be beneficial to you. Equity Trust is not an affiliate of any such provider. Equity Trust makes no recommendation or representations as to any provider and service or the needs generally of any IRA owner or any IRA. Any service available from any provider that offers investment education or advice solely reflects the views of such provider and in no way represents any recommendation or advice from Equity Trust. Opinions or ideas expressed by third parties, their affiliates, and employees are not necessarily those of Equity Trust nor do they reflect their views or endorsement. IRA owners are in no way obligated to purchase services and IRA owners are free to choose a provider with services as they deem appropriate. IRA owners should consult with their financial and legal advisors before choosing to work with any provider.
