Buying a House – Fixing Potential Problems
This is a topic that is near and dear to my heart at this moment in my life. We are in the process of buying a house that is in need of some minor repairs. In order to bring the house up to code and make it safe for my family, we have to take a look at the home’s electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. Having an experienced home inspector locate potential problems will help home buyers decide on what repairs they need to make and allow them the option of finding a licensed contractor who can help them remedy the various electrical, plumbing and HVAC problems that are regularly found in houses for sale.
If you are purchasing a home in a climate that sees either extreme cold or extreme heat, you know the importance of having a reliable and efficient HVAC system. You’ll want to make sure the HVAC system in your new home works properly. Does the unit show any signs of failure? How old is the unit? Has the previous homeowner kept up with the maintenance that is required of that HVAC system? An experienced HVAC contractor can fully inspect your furnace and air conditioning unit to let you know of any potential problems that may not be immediately visible.
Hiring a plumbing contractor can also help new homeowners determine if their pipes and water heater are in sound condition. They can tell you if any pipes are corroded or rusted and let you know if they recommend replacement. Plumbers will check water valves and look for signs of leakage and subsequent mold growth.
The home’s electrical system is something that many people take for granted. If an appliance turns on, you may assume your electrical is working properly. However, an electrician can inspect the wiring and the breaker panel to check for any signs of trouble. An electrician can check to see if all wires that run to the home are correctly polarized and that there is room for additional breakers if needed. Something that came up in my recent home inspection was a not having the kitchen appliances – fridge and stove – on their own dedicated circuit. A licensed electrician can easily fix that problem. Having an electrician fully inspect and repair the electrical wiring of your new home can eliminate any future problems and can prevent immense damage caused by electrical fire.
I recommend hiring a professional who is licensed, insured and specializes in all aspects of these home systems – HVAC, plumbing and electrical. A home is the biggest investment you’ll ever make for your family. Finding a trusted contractor who can identify and repair all problems – major and minor – will be a wise decision and give you peace of mind that your family and your home will remain safe long after you move in.
