Owning a home is a huge milestone. However, while it is exciting, it comes with great responsibility. Once you own a home, you are responsible for any home problems that may arise. It’s essential to fix any problems that come up immediately to prevent them from getting worse. That said, here are eight common home concerns and what you can do about them.
Defective Locks
Over time, locks may become damaged or faulty due to wear and tear. Defective locks threaten your home’s security. Protect your property and family by getting a locksmith to examine defective locks and change them if necessary.
Common Home Concerns: Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are prone to growing in damp and dark places. Left unresolved, they can cause structural damage or even severe health problems.
If your home starts smelling musty or you begin suffering from unexplained allergies, you may have a mold or mildew problem. Have your home inspected for mold or mildew immediately to rule out its presence. And if mold or mildew are detected, hire a mold remediation expert to address the problem.
Electrical Problems are Common Home Concerns
Electrical problems like electrical surges, flickering lights, and faulty switches, to name but a few, are fairly common home concerns. While you can fix minor electrical problems like replacing light fixtures on your own, many electrical issues are best left to experts.
For most electrical issues, it’s best to consult an electrician. The electrician will advise you on the best course of action and help you resolve the problem.
Roof Problems
Roofs are susceptible to problems like missing or damaged shingles or flashings. Such problems can lead to roof leaks or even structural damage if not dealt with promptly. Schedule regular roof inspections to replace any damaged or missing parts and prevent further damage.
Plumbing Issues
Plumbing issues like leaky faucets and pipes, water heater issues, low water pressure, and clogged drains are fairly common home concerns. Fortunately, some plumbing problems are relatively simple to fix and they don’t require professional help.
However, others are pretty complex and are better left to professionals. If you encounter a plumbing issue you can’t fix, contact a professional immediately.
HVAC Issues are Common Home Concerns
An inefficient heating and cooling system will increase your energy costs and impact your indoor air quality. Schedule an annual HVAC tune-up to keep your HVAC system in proper working order. Additionally, replace your filters regularly to extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and improve the air quality in your home.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that can cause severe health problems if inhaled. It is most often found in older homes with asbestos pipe insulation.
If you notice an unfamiliar plaster-like material around your pipes, don’t touch it. Instead, contact a licensed asbestos removal contractor to inspect your home and remove any asbestos safely.
Standing Water
If water remains stagnant in your yard for long spells after it’s rained, you probably have poor drainage or improper grading. Poor grading and drainage can erode your home’s foundation if not resolved. Fortunately, re-grading will solve the problem.
These are some of the common home concerns you may come across as a homeowner. If any of them arise, fix them immediately to prevent them from getting out of hand.
Lakeland Home Inspection Service offers inspections to customers in Polk and Hillsborough Counties, FL. If you’re buying a home, contact us to request our services.