| Even
new homes may have hidden problems. Here are ten clues for
determining a house's overall quality before you commit to
the cost of hiring a house inspector:
1) The structure. From a reasonably distant
vantage point, look at the house. Do the walls appear to be
plumb and flat? From inside, are any walls bowed or not square
at corners? When you jump in the middle of the living room
floor, does it flex or feel solid?
2) Water control. Does the ground slope away
from the base of the house? Will gutters, downspouts and drainage
pipes carry excess water away from the house... or into the
basement? Is there any evidence of water damage?
3) The roof. Is the roof new and in good shape?
Does it look neat and properly applied?
4) Details. Do you see signs of quality workmanship
in the finish details such as moldings, tilework, hardware
and paint?
5) Kitchen & bath fixtures. Are sinks,
toilets and tubs quality fixtures? Do they work properly?
Is the water pressure good when you turn on the faucets and
flush the toilet?
6) Electrical system. Are the number and locations
of receptacles adequate to the needs of the house? Is the
main circuit breaker marked at least "100 amps"?
7) Water heater, plumbing. Is the water heater
gas or electric (gas is much more efficient)? Water supply
pipes from the water heater to fixtures should be copper.
8) Heating. Where is the furnace or heater
located and what type is it? Are any rooms not heated? Do
registers look adequate for heating the spaces? Is the house
air-conditioned?
9) Insulation. Look in the attic for insulation;
R-19 (6 inches of fiberglass, for example) is a minimum in
moderate climates; up to R-38 (12 inches of fiberglass) is
required in cold climates. Remove a receptacle cover on perimeter
wall to check for wall insulation.
10) Fireplaces. Do they have screens or glass
doors (doors are more efficient). What about dampers and log
lighters? Is there a combustion vent that draws air from outside
and a spark arrestor at the top of the chimney? |
