Using common sense and safety first, one can learn much about a home on a rainy day and after a storm. This applies not only to buyers and sellers, but to homeowners wanting to make sure their largest financial investment is well cared for. Here is a top line list to check:
- Visually check for roof leaks in the attic, all room ceilings, closet ceilings and around skylights.
- Check all the doors and windows (outside, too) to make sure they are correctly sealed and there is no water coming in under or around the doors or the window sills.
- Is the basement damp/wet? Is there a sump pump, and is it working correctly? Are there covers over the basement window wells?
- Check the garage (including the doors) for leaks or seeping water.
- Is the chimney interior wet or is the outside stucco cracked or coming off?
- Visually check the gutters (great to do when raining) to make sure the water is flowing, draining freely and not spilling over. Are the down spouts guided well away from the home?
- If there is a patio, does it slant away from the home? Does it look like the grading is taking water away from the home or is there standing water on the property?
Homeowners, it's always best to take care of potential issues when first noticed. For Buyers, shopping in the rain along with a home inspection can help you make a more informed decision.
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Margot Aronson is a full time Realtor, ASR (Accredited Seller Representative) and CDPE at RE/MAX 440 4092 Skippack Pike Skippack, PA (610) 306-7939 cell (610) 584-1160 margotaronson@live.com www.margotaronson.com
