How to Address Issues During House Inspection

One of the biggest and long-term investments most people will make in their lives is Buying or Building A Home! That’s why before finalizing any property purchase, it is crucial to get a professional pre-purchase house inspection done to identify any defects or problems. While no property is perfect, being aware of common house inspection issues will help you make an informed decision and budget for any repairs needed. This article covers some of the typical problems highlighted in house inspections and solutions to address them.

Cracks in Walls and Ceilings

Cracks in walls and ceilings are one of the most common issues pointed out in pre-purchase property inspection reports. Common house inspection issues like cracks may seem harmless at first glance but can indicate underlying structural problems if ignored. Here are some ways to address cracking:

• Monitor existing cracks to check if they are increasing in size, which signals a growing problem. Take pictures for reference.
• For small cracks under 2mm, simply apply a flexible sealant as a quick fix before repainting the surface.
• Larger cracks will need patching up with fillers, mesh tape, and compound before painting over.
• Cracks near windows or doors could mean water damage or foundation movement. These require urgent structural inspection.
• Extensive cracking in multiple areas might require further evaluation by a structural engineer and geotechnical testing.

Addressing property inspection problems like cracks right away prevents further damage and expensive repairs later. The experts at House Inspections will accurately determine crack severity in their inspection reports.

Rising Damp and Mould Growth

Excess moisture leading to common house inspection issues like rising dampness and mould growth is another red flag most property inspectors will point out. Dampness provides the optimal environment for mould to thrive and can cause extensive damage. Here’s how to tackle dampness and mould issues:

• Improve ventilation and air circulation in damp areas by installing exhaust fans, opening windows regularly, etc.
• Use a moisture metre to detect and isolate affected areas that may need treatment.
• Apply waterproof sealants on external wet surfaces, like retaining walls and window sills to prevent moisture ingress.
• Treat rising dampness by installing an injection damp proof course to create a moisture barrier.
• Remove mould by cleaning affected surfaces with diluted bleach or other fungicidal solutions.
• Use anti-mould paint on walls and ceilings to inhibit recurring mould issues.

By dealing with common house defects like moisture, you can avoid bigger headaches like deteriorating walls, musty odours, and potential health hazards. The specialist pre-purchase inspection team at House Inspections inspects all areas thoroughly for dampness issues.

Defective Electricals & Plumbing

Faulty electricals and plumbing can become safety and health hazards if not addressed promptly when revealed in a house inspection report. Here are some home inspection fixes and solutions that will help you while dealing with common house defects concerned with electrical and plumbing: 

• Upgrade outdated wiring, outlets, or switchboards to prevent short circuits and electrical fires.
• Fix plumbing leaks promptly to avoid mould growth, flooding, and water damage.
• Repair or replace broken appliances like hot water systems to maintain a proper supply.
• Service gas appliances annually and ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Install RCD devices for electrical safety, especially near wet areas.
• Ensure all electrical work is done by a certified electrician only.

While some fixes may need professionals, simple plumbing jobs like fixing leaks or installing new taps can be DIYed, too. But electrical work should always be left to licenced electricians. Never take risks with safety. 

Defective Roofing

Your roof takes the most beating from the elements every day. Age, storms, and falling debris can damage different roof types in different ways. Some common home inspection fixes and solutions for defective roofing are: 

• Missing, cracked, or curling roof tiles allow water ingress.
• Corroded and leaking gutters are unable to channel rainwater runoff.
• Sagging roof structure that requires reinforcement.
• Moss buildup indicates poor ventilation and insulation.
• Rust spots on metal roofs that need protective coatings
• Split and torn membranes in flat roofs cause leaks.

Addressing property inspection problems like roof defects is important. If left unattended, it leads to crippling expenses like timber rot and will diminish your home’s value. Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the roof’s life. The experienced inspectors at House Inspections will thoroughly examine roofs and provide detailed reports on their condition.

Infestations of Termites, Rodents, etc.

Pests like termites & rodents can wreak havoc on your property by damaging wiring, woodwork, and structures if their presence goes undetected. Signs to look out for include:

• Mud tunnels or holes in walls, floors, or skirting boards indicate termite colony activity.
• Chewed-up wood debris and strange noises signal a rodent infestation.
• Musty smells from excess droppings
• Papery wings indicate the presence of swarming termites.

Pest issues should be addressed immediately to prevent extensive structural damage. However, treatment plans must be executed safely and effectively.

• Do not disturb termite colonies before professional pest control treatment.
• Use registered pest control experts for thorough fumigation and eradication.
• Repair damaged sections like drywall, wood trims, etc., after pest removal.
• Install wire mesh screens on weep holes as a preventive barrier against pests.

A skilled and experienced inspection specialist will always check for pest infestation signs and can recommend appropriate solutions. Ignoring these common house inspection issues can have disastrous outcomes. Contact Home Inspections today!

Structural and Foundation Damage

Major structural damages are usually not obvious to the untrained eye. Some signs of possible structural defects highlighted in inspection reports are:

• Uneven floors indicate foundation sagging or movement.
• Cracks in retaining walls hold back soil pressure.
• Wall leaning or sagging ceilings hint at framing issues.
• Previously repaired sections have larger underlying flaws.
• Presence of hazardous materials like asbestos & lead paint. 

While minor issues can be remedied with renovations, severe structural damage requires an engineering assessment to determine rebuilding needs.

• Seek professional advice before attempting DIY structural repairs.
• Hire certified contractors for major repairs, like underpinning sinking foundations.
• Use safe removal techniques for hazardous materials performed by licenced experts.

A house might visually seem sound, but structural issues can undermine safety. Detailed inspection reports will identify any dubious structural defects that warrant further evaluation.

Remember, Always Deal with House Inspection Experts!

Addressing defects early on will save you massive headaches and expenses later down the road. 

At House Inspections:

• All reports follow Victorian Building Authority Guidelines. 
• We offer same-day reports emailed to you with photos and a phone consultation.

Contact Building House inspections today!