Signs of Amateur Repairs After a Real Estate Home Inspection

When you purchase a home, it's essential to thoroughly inspect it and address any necessary repairs. However, not all repairs are conducted by professional, licensed tradespeople. Sometimes, builders or contractors with little experience may perform the work, leading to subpar results. This article highlights the signs that repairs done to satisfy a real estate home inspection were carried out by an amateur.

General Signs of Amateur Repairs

Signs that repairs were done by an amateur can vary widely, but some common indicators include:

Repairs that do not meet city building codes without city inspections Shoddy workmanship overall, reflected in poor-quality materials and sloppy work Visible signs of inadequate splicing in electrical systems Mismatching paint jobs that are obvious to the eye

Electrical System Repairs

In a home inspection, the electrical system is a critical component. Here are some tell-tale signs of amateur repairs in the electrical system:

Key Electrical System Issues:

Misplaced or improperly secured junction boxes: Junction boxes are meant to hold electrical components and protect the connections inside. When they are misused or not properly secured, it can lead to electrical issues. Unclean splices and overcrowded breaker panels: Splices that are not neatly contained in junction boxes or breakers that are overcrowded can be a sign of amateur workmanship. Inverted switches and outlets: Electrical switches and outlets that are not uniformly installed or if the colors or markings are inconsistent can indicate poor workmanship. Reversed neutral and hot wiring on outlets: This can pose a significant risk, as it can lead to electrical shocks and fires.

Plumbing Repairs

Proper plumbing is also essential for a well-functioning home. Here are some signs that plumbing repairs were done by an amateur:

Key Plumbing Issues:

Sloppy solder joints: Solder joints that are not properly made can leak and cause water damage. Mixed pipe fittings: Randomly mixed fitters in the same area can indicate a lack of care in the installation. Flexible drainpipes not properly secured: Flexible pipes that are not adequately fastened can lead to leaks and other plumbing problems. Hot and cold lines reversed on faucets: This can lead to inefficient water use and potential temperature issues.

Preventative Measures

To ensure that any necessary repairs are done properly, here are some steps you can take:

Use a reputable home inspection service: Before making an offer, have a professional home inspector assess the property. Request repairs in writing: When submitting your request for repairs, include a demand for receipts and proof of professional licensing. Address your concerns: If the seller is reluctant to address your concerns, re-inspect the property with your home inspector or even request a thorough inspection from a qualified tradesperson. Consider a repair credit: Rather than requesting specific repairs, ask for a credit that you can use to get the repairs done by a licensed professional.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that any necessary repairs are done professionally and to a high standard, protecting both your investment and your safety.