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Structural problems with the foundation or roof, water damage, and significant plumbing or electrical issues are all considered major red flags in a home inspection. Of these, a structural problem related to the foundation is often the most severe. Foundation repairs are typically the most expensive and intrusive to carry out, averaging around $5,000 but sometimes reaching up to $16,000. Because these problems can pose safety risks and be costly to fix, you should ask your inspector detailed questions about any identified issues. You will need to carefully consider how major problems affect what you’re willing to pay for the home, or if you want to proceed with the sale at all.

With regular testing, treatment, and maintenance, water from a community well should be safe to drink. Unfortunately, the EPA does not regulate private wells, and contamination can happen. 

If you have doubts about the quality and safety of your drinking water, you have options for testing. You can pick up kits from your local home supply store or harvest samples and send them to a local testing facility. To get the most complete water quality testing and system diagnosis, seek a local well professional. They know what to test for and can recommend and implement a longer-lasting solution.

DIY kits are available for basic air quality testing, but professional services provide more comprehensive results and recommendations. While a DIY kit may seem cost-effective, a professional assessment is more thorough. Inspectors are better equipped to catch all pollutants and hazards, and you'll still need a professional to verify and act on DIY test results. Furthermore, some kits don't test for certain pollutants or only detect their presence without measuring specific levels (like mold spores). It's generally better to opt for a detailed professional assessment.

If lead is detected in a property, steps should include arranging for professional removal or containment, notifying all occupants, and implementing interim safety measures to reduce exposure.