Water damage is one of the most telling signs of a poorly maintained home and of numerous maintenance problems to come. For a potential buyer, it is imperative to carefully inspect a home for any evidence of past water damage or obvious potential for future damage. Those trying to sell a home should also inspect the building to ensure that there are no obvious signs of such damage or potential damage which might seriously put off potential buyers. Performing the following checks can help detect past water damage and areas of potential concern.
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Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Inspect Floors
Starting on the lowest level of the home, visually inspect the floors, floor drains and lower walls for signs of past standing water. Signs include visible dark spots, build-up of minerals from previous standing water, crumbling around the foundation from water damage, or mold along the edges of drains, corners of walls or near water using appliances such as sinks, toilets, washing machines and air conditioners.
Step 2: Inspect Ceilings
On all levels of the home, visually inspect the ceiling and tops of the walls. Even if currently dry, water spots on a ceiling or wall can indicate roof leaks or plumbing problems. Check drop ceilings for spots on the panels; be suspicious of panels that differ from the others and seem to have been recently replaced.
Step 3: Inspect Walls
Check inside cupboards and vanities, wherever plumbing exist and especially where it enters and exits the building. Look for leaks in the pipes or signs of rust or mineral build-up indicative of past leaks. Check for severe condensation or leaks around plumbing lines entering the building. Pay attention to any musty smells.
Step 4: Inspect Appliances
Check the status of drip pans and underneath any appliances that use or hold water, including the refrigerator, dishwasher and air conditioner. Drip pans full of water or visual evidence that they were recently full can indicate poor maintenance and potential problems.
Step 5: Inspect Roof
One of the greatest culprits of water damage is the roof. Check the attic, during rain if possible, to ensure that there are no leaks and no apparent water damage. Climb onto the roof, checking for moss build-up which indicates excessive moisture, clogged gutters which can cause roof damage, and leaking and damaged shingles or soft-spots in the roof which indicate damage to the wood beneath the shingles.
Tips & Warnings
Look at receipts. If you are a buyer and notice water damage that the homeowner claims to have had repaired asked to see the receipt. Ensure that it shows the specific damage was repaired by a licensed contractor and that a warranty is provided on the work. If you are a seller and have water damage repaired, keep the receipts on hand.
Hello, i am John and have over ten years experience in water damage clean up, water damage restoration and water damage mold. During my career i noticed that a lot of homeowners are uninformed about water damage and it's consequences. This site provides you with how-to guides and lots of information on water damage and everything what's involved.