Ever heard the saying, “Let the buyer beware?” Of course, you have. You also know it applies to pretty much everything you can purchase. In some instances, due diligence of your purchase is easier than others. For example, you can see with your own eyes if your bananas are over-ripe. What about a new house, though? You can do all the walk-throughs you want, but there’s a lot that can go wrong with a building. Are you aware of everything you should be checking out before you buy?
Inside
Some things, like cracks in the drywall or discoloration around the baseboards, will be obvious. You should ask why those things have occurred. Are those cracks due to age or settling? That discoloration may need the inspection of a certified mold tester Pompton Lakes NJ to be sure you don’t have a serious problem. You also need to check to ensure the existing paint isn’t lead-based in homes built before 1978 and an asbestos inspection if the home was built prior to 1980. You need a pest inspection to check for rodents and bugs, an electrical inspection to ensure your wiring is safe and a radon inspection to test the air you’ll breathe. Other critical indoor inspections include the HVAC unit(s) and plumbing or water.
Outside
Don’t forget to have the outside of your new home carefully checked, too. Your roof, chimney and foundation need to be inspected for both your safety and your comfort. You should have your sewer connections or septic system examined. If there’s an underground oil or gas tank those need to be scrutinized. The same if the home has a pool or spa. Also, don’t forget a careful review of the landscaping, too. It could hide pests, drainage or soil issues you don’t want surprising you later.
The costs of the inspections are worth it to ensure your new home will be safe and secure for you and your family.
