4 Signs You May Need Professional Home Repairs

A house is one of the biggest single purchases that you will make in your lifetime. Hidden or unnoticed problems with the home’s foundation, roof, mechanical or electrical systems can be costly to repair. When considering the purchase of a home, keep your eyes open for these four problems that signal the need for professional repairs.

1. Bowed or Cracked Foundation

A home is only as strong as its foundation. When visiting a home, spend some time checking out its foundation walls. Any crack that is more than 1/8 of an inch wide is a cause for concern. Cracks that cross through the middle of concrete blocks can also be a problem. If a wall is bowing or leaning, professional repairs such as the installation of steel beams will be needed in order to keep the home structurally sound.

2. Tripped Circuits

Blinking lights or appliances that shut off as soon as you turn them on suggest that there are electrical problems in the home. A circuit that repeatedly trips can be a sign of a serious electrical issue. The circuit could be overloaded, improperly wired, or decayed and in need of repair. An overloaded electrical system could cause an electrical fire. As you inspect the house, turn on some of the switches, inspect the breaker for tripped fuses, and ask about the home’s history. If anything seem suspicious, have an inspector take a closer look.

3. Sagging or Leaky Roof

A home’s roof is constantly exposed to heat, wind and precipitation. These forces cause the roof to age, which can lead to leaks. Look at the roof for signs of sagging, which suggests that the support beams are weak or damaged. Check for drip lines on the sides of the home. Missing shingles, sagging gutters and disconnected gutters or downspouts also suggest roof problems. Look inside for water spots or mold along the ceilings and walls. A roof leak can lead to significant damage to the entire home.

4. Broken Heating or Air Conditioning

The heating and air conditioning systems are the most expensive mechanical parts of a home. A furnace that does not work properly could cause a carbon monoxide leak. A lack of heat could also lead to burst pipes. Poorly functioning air conditioning systems may cause a humidity buildup, leading to mold and mildew. Listen for unusual sounds and check the thermostat for proper temperature.

It is important to look for these four signs of structural and electrical problems when you are visiting a home for sale. If you do not see any of these signs, ask about any known problems. A home inspector can also look for these signs as well as other problems within a home that you are considering buying. Professional real estate agents, like those at Lisa Burridge & Associates Real Estate, will be able to research the history of the house—and find out any potential problems—before you buy.