Buying a Waterloo Region home is a significant investment, and ensuring that the house is in the best possible condition is a top priority for any buyer, whether it's their first home or an investment property. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a home, but you'll want to make sure a home inspection is on your to-do list to avoid any potential difficulties or unexpected charges as you progress through the process.
Anyone buying a home should always get a general home inspection. Smart purchasers, may also need to do due diligence by organizing specialized home inspections, particularly if the house is older or has unique features. There are various specialized sorts of home inspections you may want to consider before closing on your dream home, ranging from the roof to the foundation.
Here is a look at some of the specialized home inspections that your future Waterloo Region home might benefit from you ordering.
1) Roof Inspection
With a visual inspection from the ground, most routine home inspections will discover obvious roof concerns, such as dark streaks or stains on your ceiling or loose shingles. A roof inspector, on the other hand, will perform a more complete inspection that may discover problems that aren't evident to the untrained eye. This includes looking for leaks, loose shingles that could let water into the house, and the state of the gutters.
2) Chimney Inspection
A chimney inspection will reveal any potential concerns, such as accumulation or obstructions, in the firebox or flue, which you can bring to the homeowners' attention before closing on the house.
As with all inspections, the inspector will look for exterior cracks or deterioration in the mortar, as well as a need to clear the chimney of any creosote accumulation (a byproduct of burning wood) that could cause a fire if left unchecked. When the fireplace is lit during the colder months, this form of home inspection seeks to prevent chimney fires and smoke or aromas from leaking into the property.
3) Attic Inspection
From the outside, the roof may appear to be in good condition, but there may be evidence of structural problems in the attic that a routine check would overlook. An attic check will reveal whether there is enough insulation or if there is any damage that needs to be repaired. A skilled specialist will also have the instruments needed to detect indicators of mould or moisture that could jeopardize the foundation's structural integrity.
4) Electrical Inspection
Whether you're looking at buying a new Waterloo Region home or an older one, making sure the wiring is up-to-date and meets local regulations and requirements will save you time and money in the long run. Having your electrical systems evaluated by a professional will provide you with a number of advantages, including increased safety, comfort, and energy economy. Regular wear and use can cause wires to fray and become damaged, posing a serious fire hazard to your home and family.
5) HVAC Inspection
A weird sound or odor could signal an underlying problem with your HVAC system, resulting in higher heating and cooling bills or, worse, the need to replace it entirely. An HVAC inspection may provide you a better understanding of your home's heating and cooling system, as well as make recommendations for repairs or energy-saving enhancements.
6) Mould Inspection
Just because mould isn't visible doesn't mean it isn't present in your ideal home. In fact, a mould problem could signal the presence of broader problems such as water damage, leaks, or even flooding in the home. To detect the type of mould present, a mould remediation specialist would often do a visual evaluation and sample the air and surfaces in the residence. Thermal imaging may be used in this form of home inspection to find moist or cold locations behind walls, where mould thrives.
7) Pest Inspection
Termites and other wood-eating pests can cause irreversible property damage that is expensive to repair. A general home inspection may reveal areas of damage that could attract these unwanted visitors, but only a trained specialist can determine whether termites, carpenter ants, rodents, or spiders are present in your home's exterior and interior, the size of the infestation, and how long the pest has been there. Not only will getting a pest inspection done early on save you the pain of dealing with an infestation, but it will also ensure that you are investing in a pest-free house.
8) Lead Paint Inspection
Lead-based paint may be present in older homes built before 1978 – and even some built after – and should be examined by a certified specialist. Even low amounts of lead-based paint can create health problems. An expert will inspect the house for peeling or chipped paint and collect samples to be tested for lead in a laboratory.
9) Plumbing Inspection
It's never convenient to have a plumbing problem. Investing in a proper plumbing examination before making a down payment can reveal underlying concerns that could turn into a homeowner's nightmare, such as a sewer backup or a broken water heater. To verify that fixtures and appliances are placed properly and check for evidence of water damage under or behind appliances, a professional will either conduct a visual examination or use a diagnostic camera.
10) Septic System Inspection
If not identified before you're under contract, a faulty septic system might result in costly repairs (and unpleasant odors). A skilled specialist will find and inspect the septic tank, sludge layer, and absorption area to ensure that all components are functioning properly and that the tank is the correct size for the residence. If you're buying a house with a septic tank, you should get a septic inspection.
11) Pool Inspection
A pool is a wonderful outdoor feature, but failing to evaluate the pool's structure and equipment systems, such as the pumps, heaters, and filters, can lead to a slew of issues down the line. The pool's plumbing system should be inspected to ensure that the water is draining properly and that the safety covers and hardware are sufficient to seal the pool when not in use, in addition to being leak-free and sturdy.
Is it worthwhile to spend extra on these many forms of home inspections?
While specialized house inspections can be costly and time-consuming, they can provide you with peace of mind in the long term. These kinds of house inspections might also save you a lot of money in the long run.
If you are unsure if you might need additional inspections, ask your real estate agent for advice. An experienced agent will have dealt with all kinds of problems in the past and should have a good idea just which - if any - specialized home inspections you might need.
Getting ready to buy a Waterloo Region home, or sell the one you own? Let Team Pinto use our huge experience and expertise to help you. Contact the award-winning Team Pinto here, or book a free Zoom consultation here to discuss your unique Waterloo Region real estate needs with us directly.