5 Critical Home Inspections To Carry Out Regularly

A properly maintained home is a safe home. Regular inspections spot potential problems early and nip them in the bud. The effort is especially critical when living in an older home. 

After a severe storm or extreme weather conditions, it’s always a good idea to check your home for any damage, and look into healthy home inspections for safety and peace of mind.

Here are the 5 critical home inspections to prioritize.

Plumbing Inspection

First, walk around your property and check the exposed pipes for leaks. If you have an irrigation system, inspect the underground piping. Look out for pooled water around your home, which could signify a leak. 

Check for water stains, dripping sounds, or mold and mildew. These could all be signs of a plumbing problem. If you spot any of these, call a plumbing repair expert immediately.

Open all the faucets to check the water pressure. If you have a septic tank, have it pumped and cleaned every three to five years. Other than that, ensure all the drains are unclogged and working correctly. Replace old pipes, insulate exposed ones, and fix any leaks as soon as possible.

A Roof Inspection

Your roof is constantly exposed to the elements and takes a beating all year. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of the first places where problems start to show. Inspect it regularly, at least twice a year. Look out for any missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or holes. 

Repair any issues immediately as they lead to water damage. Also, check the gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re debris-free. Clogged drains can cause water to back up and damage your roof.

Another crucial update would be checking into a chimney repair near me, to ensure that there are no cracks or damage. If there is, get it repaired as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to have the chimney cleaned once a year.

Electrical Inspections

Check all the outlets and make sure they’re working correctly. Also, look at the electrical panel and ensure that all the breakers are in the correct position. If you have any electrical repairs that need fixing, it’s best to leave them to the professionals.

The experts will check whether the current electrical panel can adequately support your home’s electrical load. If it can’t, they may recommend an upgrade. This is especially important if you live in an older home as the electrical system may not be up to code.

The HVAC

Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system requires regular inspections and maintenance practices. Check the furnace, air conditioner, and ductwork for any damage or leaks. 

Also, change the filters regularly, at least once every three months. A clogged filter can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and cause it to work harder, leading to higher energy bills.

It’s also a good idea to have your HVAC system serviced by a professional once a year. They will clean the ductwork and inspect all the components to ensure they work properly. The exercise will prolong the life of your system and keep it running smoothly all year round.

The Foundation

The foundation is one of your home’s most critical parts, yet it’s often overlooked. Inspect it regularly for cracks or settlement. Repair these as soon as possible as they cause severe damage. Also, check the gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re debris-free. Clogged drains cause water to back up and damage the foundation.

Also, take a look at the trees and shrubs around your home. Roots can grow into the foundation and cause cracks. If you spot any trees that are too close to your home, remove them.

Catch Problems Before They Cause Major Disasters

These are the most critical home inspections you need to carry out regularly. By doing so, you’ll catch problems early and prevent major and expensive repairs. You’ll protect your investment, keep your family safe and save money in the long run. So, don’t wait; get started today.