What the Ottawa Home Inspector Saw – Water Related Investigations
Posted on July 9, 2010
Filed Under Buying Your New Home, The Ottawa House, Valerie Zinger
During a home inspection, you will be looking for evidence of water related problems with the house. A look at the roof, a look at the slope of land away from the house, peeling of paint inside and outside the house, mould on the walls and in the basement, etc. There are serious implications (cost and structural) to water damage.
In addition to the obvious structural issues, there are many water related things to investigate. Here are a few:
- To see if the water pressure is going to be adequate for your needs, set the dishwasher, washing machine and shower going. See if there is enough pressure.
- Some older homes do not have regulators on the water temperature in the shower/tub. Check by turning the shower on and then flush a toilet. Does the water go from water to boiling hot? What happens to the water pressure?
- Fill the therapeutic tub (water over the jets) and then turn on the motor. Do all the jets work? Is the noise level bearable? Replacing a motor on a tub cost several hundred dollars plus labour.
- Turn on the dishwasher and wash machine – if these appliances are included in the purchase. Do they work? If you are bringing your own, measure the space to ensure they will fit. Not all appliances are the same size.
- If it is spring through fall, try out the exterior taps. Do they work? Remember, some owners have turned off the water during the winter so you need to find the shut off valve.
- Do all the taps, toilets and appliances have shut off valves? In the middle of a leak, it is hard to remember where the main valve for the house is located. Again, shut off valves can be installed. The plumber’s visit may end up costing hundreds of dollars if there are a number of valves and if they are difficult to install.
- If the home is an apartment condo and there is no room for a washer/ dryer, find out where the laundry room is and the condition of the room and machines. Is there going to be a yuck factor every time you do a load of wash?
The devil is in the details of your home inspection.
Photo credit: lost thoughts @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/hawee/3469678953/
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Welcome
My name is Valerie Zinger. I am a Realtor in Ottawa. I look forward to listing your property or helping you find your home.
Phone: 613-859-7759 Click here to contact Valerie by Email at:
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