What to Inspect Before Buying a Pre-Owned Home

When looking into purchasing a new home, there are two choices: New build or pre-owned. In most cases, pre-owned properties offer potential savings. However, they also have the potential for issues, making a home inspection a critical step in the buying process.

In this blog, we'll take a look at which areas of your new home should be inspected before finalizing your purchase to avoid any unpleasant surprises down the line.

Structural Integrity

One of the most important things to inspect is the structural integrity of the property, starting with a foundation inspection. Look for cracks, uneven floors, and signs of settling. If you find any of these issues, they could be signs of structural movement or subsidence problems, which could require significant and costly repairs. If the foundation shows any signs of sinking or shifting, this could be another red flag.

Another critical area you must inspect thoroughly is the roof. Check for damaged, missing or slipped tiles and look for any signs of leaks on both the interior and exterior, such as water stains on ceilings or walls. A damaged roof can have severe consequences, such as structural issues, mould and mildew, making a roof condition assessment vital.

Also, check the brickwork and walls for any crumbling mortar, cracks, and signs of dampness, and the chimney for any leaning or separating from the house.

Water Damage and Plumbing

The plumbing system is another crucial part of a home you want to ensure is in good condition. Faulty plumbing can pose a significant risk to your home, from water damage to mould and mildew. So, it's critical to do a plumbing inspection by investigating the condition of pipes and water pressure. Inspect under sinks for leaks or water stains. It's also always a good idea to test all faucets and toilets to ensure they are functioning correctly and are not leaking.

Basements and crawl spaces are two areas that are especially prone to moisture problems. Look for water damage signs like water infiltration, mould, and dampness. Musty smells can also be a clear sign of damp issues that may not be immediately visible.

The bathroom is one part of your home where plumbing issues can cause immense water damage, so always ensure that all bathroom fixtures work correctly and check for leaks around showers, baths, and toilets.

Electrical System

Test all electrical outlets and check the electrical panel for proper organization and labelling in the panel, which can indicate a well-maintained system. Faulty wiring can be a significant safety hazard and may need to be replaced.

Also, ensure that all lights and fixtures are operational. Look for any signs of faulty wiring, such as flickering lights or sparking outlets, which could indicate deeper electrical issues.

Heating and Cooling Systems

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system should also be in good working order. Look at the units' age, condition, and functionality, as well as any stickers indicating when they were serviced last. Check for proper ventilation to ensure it works properly.

Boilers and water heaters can also be potential hazards. Inspect them for leaks and overall condition, and ensure they meet safety standards and have been regularly maintained. You can also check their efficiency by running hot water on a faucet to see how long it takes to warm up.

Damp and Mould

Mould and dampness issues are some of the most significant factors to look out for, as they can have quite wide-reaching consequences. Look for discoloration, peeling paint or wallpaper, and signs of mould or mildew. You can most often find those in corners or near plumbing fixtures, and in some cases, you can also smell the mould.

Look for damp smells or salt deposits on brickwork. These can be signs of damp issues that can impact the structural integrity of the home and the health of its occupants.

Windows and Doors

Test all windows and doors to ensure they open and close properly. This includes checking for drafts and rot, which can both compromise your home's energy efficiency and security.
Check the seals around windows and doors for wear and tear. They are the most common area that causes heat loss and leads to uncomfortable drafts in winter and heat entering during summer.

Exterior Areas

The inspection should not be limited to the interior of the home, as there are also some critical areas on the outside of the house. As much as possible, check that the gutters are clear and properly directing water away from the foundation. Check for any drainage issues that could lead to water pooling around the home, which can cause damage over time.

The same goes for the landscaping. Check for water pooling and proper grading, and if there are any retaining walls or other structures, examine them for potential issues.

Appliances and Interior Features

Finally, test all kitchen appliances to ensure they are working properly. Check for any signs of wear or damage. Also, check the condition of flooring, cabinetry, and any built-ins to ensure they are undamaged and in good condition.

Trust the Professionals

When buying a pre-owned home, a thorough home inspection is a must. Investing the time, or money if you go with a professional home inspector, can save you from costly surprises and ensure your investment is protected. We highly recommend hiring a professional inspector as they have the experience and expertise to properly and comprehensively check everything and ensure all potential are identified and addressed before you finalize the deal.

Buying a new home, whether pre-owned or new, is a significant decision you shouldn't take lightly. Weigh the pros and cons and determine which aligns more with your personal situation and goals to ensure you don't just jump into a purchase. If you are unsure or have additional questions, the professionals at Condo123 can help you ensure you can make an informed decision.

We have served Toronto and the GTA for many years and have a proven track record of efficient and professional real estate sales, from pre-construction projects to resale homes in Canada.

Call today at 416-930-3063 to find out how we can help you find your new home!