Don’t ignore these home inspection red flags

Home buyers and inspectors should look out for the following red-flag problems.

▪ Big-ticket items: They include HVAC systems over 20 years old, a roof with curling shingles, and mold. Do not ignore them.

▪ Plumbing: Polybutylene pipes leak and cause property damage.

If the inspector finds them, plan to replace them as soon as possible.

▪ Home flipping: If the home you’re considering was recently flipped, make sure corners weren’t cut. Seller disclosure laws are not an absolute protection against this, because in certain states sellers can fill out a disclaimer form instead of a disclosure.

A home inspection may uncover issues not in the seller’s paperwork and even problems the sellers may not know exist.

▪ Electrical systems: Pay attention to the inspector on electrical issues, except for one: reverse polarity. It is a common issue that’s simple and inexpensive for an electrician to fix.

▪ Window condition: Their condition can have a significant impact on utility costs.

Foggy windows can be a sign their seal has broken, and they’re not functioning properly. In some cases, this is easy to repair. In others, you may need to replace windows or sliding doors.

Your real estate agent can renegotiate to find a solution for red flags. Smart buyers ask for money from the seller to take care of the repairs themselves.

Jon Coile, Washington Post

This story was originally published April 8, 2016 at 10:43 AM with the headline "Don’t ignore these home inspection red flags."