Get matched with top chimney inspectors in Woodstock, ME

These are some of the critical considerations when planning to make your home accessible:

• How wide are your doorways, wheelchair ramps, hallways, and pathways? These should be at least 32 inches wide.

• Which bathroom modifications will be necessary? 

• Do you need to lower any cabinetry or other fixtures to make them accessible for wheelchair users?

• Is there enough room to turn around in the shower?

• Is there a second story of the home that requires a stair lift?

• Is there proper lighting outside in the dark? If not, a floodlight may be necessary.

Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.

A mold inspection, especially in homes with a history of water damage or high humidity, is critical for maintaining a healthy living space. Mold can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems, particularly for individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems. Unchecked mold growth can lead to structural damage, resulting in costly repairs. A thorough inspection identifies visible mold and uncovers hidden sources to allow for timely remediation, preventing further damage and health risks.

The unseen issues with a home are often the ones that turn out to be the most stressful. While inspections aren’t a legal requirement, they can highlight significant issues, such as damaged foundations, excessive mold, leaky basements, or problematic plumbing. These can cost thousands of dollars to repair, and the work can be invasive.

Knowing these things that fail a home inspection in advance allows you to decide if you want to proceed with the purchase. The seller may even cut back the sale price to help cover any renovation expenses or take care of them before closing.