Common Home Defects Revealed by HomeTeam Inspection Service

HomeTeam Inspection Service, The
Published: November 24th, 2009

MILFORD, Ohio // PRNewswire // -- First-time homebuyers received much-needed assistance this year thanks to $8,000 tax credits. Congress recently voted to extend and expand the tax credit to include homeowners buying another property. If you're taking advantage of this, be sure to have a reliable inspector check the property to ensure you're getting your dream home.

"Inspections are performed in over 90 percent of residential real estate transactions but the quality of services varies; if not addressed, small problems can escalate into costlier issues," said Jim Hunter, president and CEO of HomeTeam Inspection Service, the leading residential home inspection franchise in North America. "HomeTeam Inspection Service's professionally trained and certified inspectors can offer higher-quality services in half the time of many competitors, which comes in handy with foreclosures that need inspections on very short notice."

No house is perfect so read on to learn about common home defects that need attention:

1. Poor Drainage. Improper grading can lead to water intrusion in basements and crawl spaces. This compromises foundations and creates conditions conducive to mold growth.
2. Failing or Aging HVAC Systems. Older HVAC systems require maintenance and may be energy inefficient. There is also the risk of carbon monoxide emissions, which are harmful to residents.
3. Environmental Hazards. Older homes may contain lead-based paint, elevated carbon monoxide levels, radon or even asbestos. Proper testing should be performed to ensure the safety of the occupants.
4. Roof Problems. The roof may contain old or damaged shingles or improper flashing. Maintaining your roof is one of most significant things you can do to prevent long-term damage to your home.
5. Electrical Safety Issues. A home with an out-of-date or insufficient electrical system can lead to fires, electric shock or nuisance breaker tripping. Examples of other electrical safety hazards are ungrounded outlets, lack of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI), aluminum wiring and faulty wiring conditions in electrical panels.

"If the inspection reveals issues, buyers should request the seller make repairs before the closing or walk away from the deal in favor of a better-maintained property. A home is one of the biggest investments anyone can make and a quality inspection protects that," said Hunter.

SOURCE HomeTeam Inspection Service