Get matched with top chimney inspectors in Marceline, MO

By nature, two-prong outlets aren't grounded—but the box they run to might be, which makes them safer. The safest way to test if an outlet is grounded is to purchase a circuit tester, which cost about $20 at home improvement stores. 

If you discover your outlet (or outlets) aren't grounded, know that this greatly increases your risk of personal injury and electrical fires. You may want to consider installing new three-prong ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets. On average, the cost to install GFCI outlets is about $210 per outlet.

For most homeowners, a plumbing inspection costs $100 to $500. It depends on the location, the type of inspection, and the size of your home. A simple visual inspection will cost up to $200, while a camera inspection that checks your underground sewer lines can cost more than $1,000. Nonetheless, this may still be a better option than tearing up your underground plumbing to find the problem.

Depending on your state, a home inspector may need a license. All states and the District of Columbia require home inspectors to undergo training. However, some states (such as New York, Texas, Washington, and Illinois) require state-issued licenses while others (including California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Virginia) do not.

Other professional certifications include the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) certification, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) certification, and the National Home Inspector Examination. Inspectors can also receive certifications in specialized areas. These can include structural specialties, like chimneys, swimming pools, or septic systems, as well as specific issues like mold, pests, or radon gas. Whatever your situation, make sure your home inspector is certified to handle it.

While a hygrometer is the most accurate tool for measuring humidity levels in the home, you can gauge humidity levels using simpler methods. One way is by observing signs like condensation on windows or feeling excessively sticky or clammy indoors, indicating higher humidity. Another DIY approach involves the “hair method”—aka placing a few strands of human hair in a closed container with salt for several hours. If the hair becomes limp, it's likely due to high humidity. These methods offer rough estimations, but lack the precision of a hygrometer for accurate readings.