Five More Common Las Vegas Real Estate Inspection Concerns To Watch Out For
While a home doesn’t really “fail” a real estate inspection, a bad report might make you pass up on the property. We’ve already shared with you a short list of common problems that a Las Vegas real estate inspection might uncover, however those aren’t the only issues you could encounter! Learn how to find what home inspectors are trained to look out for. When searching for your dream home keep an eye out for these five additional common problems that could mean big trouble down the line.
Cracked Stucco
Many Las Vegas homes sport synthetic stucco (EIFS) on their exterior. During a home inspection, the inspector will inspect the outside of the home for any cracks in the stucco. Cracked stucco is a sign of possible water damage. Water that gets trapped inside of the stucco will form mold and mildew that can rot away pieces of the home. If the mold reaches the inside of a home, the potential health issues can be devastating. You should never knowingly move into a house that has mold.
Sewer Issues
Problems relating to the sewage system are most often caused by clogged pipes and improper installation. The sewer system’s purpose is to carry all of the raw sewage away from the home. When this system isn’t functioning properly you’ll see drains bubbling, and toilets backing up. Things such as “hard” water, and tree roots can damage the sewer pipe in a home. A Las Vegas real estate inspection will warn you of the problems, and potential problems, with the way a home’s sewage system works.
Easements and Encroachments
Easements and encroachments have to do with permitted land use. When you are looking to purchase a house you need to be aware of any easements and encroachments relating to it. These are things that a home inspector should be able to look up for you. An encroachment is the unpermitted use of someone else’s land. For example, the yard might be extending over what is actually the defined property. This house might accidentally have an encroachment on a neighboring yard that could cause grief in the future. On the other hand, an easement is the permitted use of someone else’s land. Commonly, electric companies are granted easements that allow them to run wires through residential yards. Make sure you are aware of any easements and encroachments on your property, so you are not surprised by actions taken on them.
Location Of Trees And Shrubberies
Contrary to popular belief tree roots do not damage a homes foundation by growing into it (most of the time). Roots from trees suck up and store so much water that over time the properties of the surrounding soil change. The ground underneath the home’s foundation is shifting allowing the foundation itself to shift and begin to crack. For this reason both trees and shrubberies need to be planted far away enough from a home that there is not any potential danger caused by their roots. During a Las Vegas real estate inspection, don’t be afraid to inquire about plants in the area surrounding a home. Your wallet will thank you!
Improperly Installed Handrails
Many Las Vegas homes feature multiple stories and balconies. During a home inspection, the inspector will be checking the integrity of a home’s handrails, granted it needs them. Handrails must not only be presented and sturdy but also installed at a proper height. A balcony that is lacking handrails, or has handrails that are too short, poses a safety hazard.
When you are on the hunt for your dream home, it is important that you invest in a Las Vegas real estate inspection. Not only will doing this save you time and money, but it’ll ensure that you are getting into a home that is safe and comfortable to live in!
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