How To Identify Water Damage

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage comes in many different forms and can occur in many different areas of the house.

There is nothing more important than knowing what to look for when you are looking to buy a home. Understanding all the elements you need to check and what you need to look out for throughout this process is vital. Water damage is one specific issue you should keep a lookout for. Water damage comes in many different forms and can occur in many different areas of the house. Educating yourself on water damage will keep you from purchasing a home that is not structurally safe or could be a health risk to your and your family. Provided below are a few pointers on how to identify water damage in a prospective home. Hopefully, when combined with your intuition, these tips will lead you to find your forever home.

What Signs To Watch Out For

Though there are numerous areas and ways your house could have water damage, the issue occurs more often in certain locations. Listed below are a few common signs that you should watch out for when touring a home.

• Water Stains: While water stains are most often found on the ceiling, they can also be located on the walls. Make sure to keep track of areas where you have identified water stains.
• Soft/Sagging Floor Spots: Keep a close eye out for these spots near the tub, shower, and sink. At times, these areas can be caused by a leaky or broken appliance.
• Watermarks Under Cabinets: You might not think to look here, but you certainly should. If you find a damp or moist area underneath a cabinet or discover signs of mold, it’s likely that there is a leaking pipe somewhere nearby.
• Warped Flooring: All flooring types can be damaged by water. Though this issue is often easy to identify, you should still make sure to check the corners of each room for signs of damage.

Some of the issues above might not be big problems that will keep you from buying a home, but you will need to make that educated decision yourself. Not identifying these issues will only lead to further trouble and frustration down the road.