House Hunting? Early Warning Signs That A House Is In Trouble

When it comes to buying a new home, there’s one piece of advice that everywhere is awash with: consult the professionals! Getting a survey done on a property is a must- sometimes literally, as insurance policies require it. We’re going to go ahead and assume that you already knew that, and wouldn’t dream of buying without that certification.

 

However, this process is not free. By the time most people are looking for surveys, they’re already pretty set on the house in question. You’re researching schools, planning your move and figuring out the best route for your weekly commute. Sometimes, you want to know if there are serious issues with a house long before you get on to your second and third viewings.

 

There are a few signs that can point to underlying problems. While these are not definitive, they should give you a jumping off point for discussing with the owner. You may find it’s evidence of something already dealt with, or noticing it may make you a little wiggle room on the asking price. You should still get a survey done, but there’re a few tricks to detecting the early warning signs of trouble.

 

Structural Issues

House Hunting Early Warning Signs That A House Is In Trouble

Image By Rkit

 

  • The best place to identify immediate issues is from the road. Stand back at some distance and gauge how the house is sitting. If there is a noticeable lean – and sometimes, there will be – then it’s something you need to discuss. It’s not as visible up close, so stepping back is an important part of the process.
  • Check the roof and the drainage system. If there is any sign of sagging, it could mean that extensive repairs are going to be needed shortly.
  • Vertical cracks in walls are not much of an issue, tending to just be superficial damage. However, if you find horizontal jagged cracks, then run a mile – this indicates foundation issues.

 

Pest Problems

 

  • Little round holes in wood are an immediate sign of a termite problem. Any wood that looks distorted might require a dose of termite control as well- inspect the window sashes and door frames carefully.
  • You can take a portable UV lamp to search for signs of rodent urine. Check in the kitchen, under the counters and along entrance points into the home. Gutters are always a good place to verify too.
  • Check the cleaning products in the kitchen and garage. If there’s a history of pest problems, you’ll see evidence of it in the items they’re buying. Yes, it’s a little bit invasive, but you’ve got a right to know if there’s an issue.

 

Damp Problems

House Hunting- Early Warning Signs That A House Is In Trouble

Image by Kebabknight

 

  • The most obvious issue is mildew on the walls, but few vendors will risk showing a property with this in place. Look for patches of paintwork that are lighter than surrounding areas, as if they have been recently scrubbed.
  • If the mortar is crumbling on the outside of the house, it’s a bad sign. Even worse if you can pull more off with your fingers.

 

With the above in mind, you can do a few checks before you fall in love with your new neighbourhood. Happy house hunting!

 

Speak Your Mind

*