What Do Home Inspectors Look for?

Although real estate agents can point out needed repairs with a Brooklyn brownstone, you’ll always need a home inspector’s expert opinion. But what do home inspectors look for? Below are some top-of-mind issues that home inspectors keep an eye out for.

Water Infiltration

Inspectors look for unwanted water infiltration. The most common cases of unwanted moisture are around rooftops, windows and terraces. Below-ground-level apartments can also run into water problems.

Window Violations

When windows are replaced in a brownstone in a designated historic area, they must receive approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. For example, a window replacement may be denied if a neighboring building has rounded windows and the replaced windows are flat.

Because of the unusual nature of some window sizes and shapes, owners spend an average of $2,500 per window to have a custom replacement. Making changes without the LPC's approval can result in violations and fines between $500 and $5,000.

Trip Hazards

Railings and hand railings should be installed in areas that have steep or high drop-offs to prevent unnecessary falls. Many outside patios in brownstone backyards may become raised and re-settle over the years, which can also become hazardous and would require repair. Inspectors will also pay attention to flooring, particularly with hardwood floors, to ensure that no obvious gaps or settling exist.

Electrical Issues

There are a couple of electric systems to look out for, but one of the most important is knob and tube wiring, which is found in homes that have not been renovated in a long time. K&T systems can lead to potential for electric shock or electrical fires, so it's recommended that these systems be replaced.

It’s also important to make sure that the electrical disconnect is properly scaled to the building’s size. Make sure that fuse boxes aren't overused and are up to date.

An electrical panel manufactured in the 1960s by Federal Pacific called “StabLok” has been known to cause fires. Most home inspectors will recommend that these panels be replaced immediately.

Boilers and Furnaces

Heating can be either oil or natural gas. In New York City, most people prefer natural gas because it’s cleaner burning, you don’t have to worry about oil deliveries, and it requires less maintenance. Look out for the efficiency rate of the boilers to make sure that they’re operating at full efficiency, or consider upgrading to a more energy efficient boiler system.

Asbestos

Once used as insulation in construction, asbestos was rampantly present in homes built before the 1980s. When evidence emerged that asbestos was hazardous to human health (inhaling asbestos fibers irritates the lungs and can cause the tissue to scar), the insulation was quickly abandoned. It’s recommended to remove asbestos immediately within dwellings to prevent future health complications.