Top 5 Things to Look for in a Property Inspection

1) Foundation

• Most foundations are not up to date with today’s building code, so retrofitting is recommended, especially in California where earthquakes are prevalent. If you ever see cracks on ceilings or tilts in the floor, it could be a sign of foundation issues so be sure to have an expert inspect.

2) Roof

• Roofs typically have a life expectancy of 10 years and should be replaced accordingly. If not, you may deal with flooding issues which could cause damage to flooring. Make sure to inspect your roof to avoid additional costly repairs.

3) Plumbing

• Be aware what year the property was built. Galvanized pipes were used as late as the 1990s and have a life expectancy of 80 years, so are a ticking time bomb. It can ruin floors, walls and much more costing a lot to remediate.

4) Electrical Panel

• Older control panels are obsolete if not dangerous to use. Most older control panels don’t have enough amps to support modern appliances. If circuits and wiring are not up to building code, it could be a fire hazard.

5) Termites

• In California it’s recommended to do remediation yearly but most owners do not keep up with the maintenance so most properties will require some level of termite repair.

These are all major things that could affect the value of your property and your insurance rate, as these are the top things insurance companies look for when giving you a quote.

Be sure to have a qualified team, including a competent inspector, contractor, and Realtor. This will help you avoid a bad situation and help you negotiate to save money and unnecessary stress.

We’d be happy to help guide you through the process or offer a second opinion.