When you own a home or rental property, the last thing you want to deal with is detrimental issues that impact the home’s habitability. If your home has a basement, taking proper care of it is crucial. After all, issues in the basement can impact the safety, structural integrity, and overall value of a property. So, read along as we discuss the importance of basement inspections, the signs you need an inspection, and what a professional looks for during an inspection.
Contents of This Article:
- Why Are Basement Inspections Important?
- Signs You Need a Professional Basement Inspection
- What Do Professional Inspectors Look For?
- How Much Does a Basement Inspection Cost?
- Keep Your Inspections Up-To-Date With BMG
Why Are Basement Inspections Important?
Northern Virginia property managers know how important inspections are. Regular basement inspections are crucial whether you own a personal home, rental property, or commercial building. Without regular inspections, you may overlook serious issues that impact a property’s health and safety. Here are some of the main reasons why basement inspections are crucial.
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Preventing Structural Damage
- Ensuring Air Quality and Health
- Compliance With Building Codes
- Identifying Radon Levels
- Protecting Property Value
Preventing Structural Damage
Basement inspections are crucial in identifying early signs of structural damage. For instance, they can identify cracks, shifts, or signs of foundational damage that could lead to costly repairs down the line. If they’re left without repair, they can escalate, leading to significant property damage, like foundation failure, wall collapse, or floor instability.
Ensuring Air Quality and Health
Because basements are below the ground, they are vulnerable to excessive moisture. Unfortunately, when moisture levels are too high, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. Inspections help identify moisture areas that may lead to poor indoor air quality, which can have serious health implications.
Compliance With Building Codes
Regular inspections help ensure the area complies with local regulations, which is especially crucial in rental properties. Non-compliance with local codes is unsafe for tenants and can lead to legal issues for rental owners.
Identifying Radon Levels
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can accumulate in basements due to natural release from the soil. Basement inspections usually include radon testing, which is important for ensuring the health and safety of rental occupants. Since it’s undetectable without testing, it can pose a health risk if not monitored.
Protecting Property Value
Regular inspections ensure no unaddressed issues in the basement negatively impact a property’s value. Basements that are prone to moisture, structural issues, or other issues can deteriorate quickly, leading to costly repairs and a decrease in property value. On the other hand, a well-maintained basement creates more appeal and adds to a home’s value.
Signs You Need a Professional Basement Inspection
Identifying basement issues early can help prevent more serious issues later on. While you should be getting regular inspections regardless, several signs make an immediate inspection necessary. Here are some of the signs to look for.
- Cracks- Noticeable cracks in basement walls or floors can indicate foundation issues that need immediate attention.
- Uneven Floors- If the basement floors feel sloped or uneven, it could mean that there are structural problems or settling that need professional evaluation.
- Mold or Mildew- Whether noticeable or not, mold or mildew means excessive moisture, which can lead to health and structural issues.
- Musty Odors– If you notice a musty smell in the basement, it generally means that there’s a hidden mold or moisture issue that needs to be looked at by a professional.
- Water Damage– Stains, damp spots, or water pooling in the basement means that water is getting in somehow, which can lead to structural damage.
- Bowing or Bulging Walls- Walls that look like they’re bowing or bulging inward may indicate foundation pressure or structural instability that needs immediate inspection.
- Signs of Pests- Evidence of a pest infestation, like droppings, chewed wires, or nests, can indicate gaps or cracks in the foundation that need to be sealed and repaired.
What Do Professional Inspectors Look For?
When it comes to basement inspections, it’s important to have a professional do the job. After all, the average person likely won’t see what a professional will. So, what are they looking for? Here are the main things inspectors look for during a thorough investigation.
Leaking Pipes- Standing Water
- Moisture or Water Damage
- Water Stains
- Peeling Paint
- Damaged Window Wells
- Foundation Cracks
- Mold and Mildew
- Rodent and Insect Activity
- Radon Levels
- Electrical and HVAC Systems
- Insulation and Ventilation
How Much Does a Basement Inspection Cost?
The cost of a basement inspection depends on several factors. Most home inspections range from $450 to $900. However, the bigger and more complex the foundation, the higher the cost, up to $1,000 to $3,000. Some of the main factors that affect basement inspection costs include the following:
- Location- Costs can vary depending on where your property is. For instance, inspections in major areas will likely be more expensive than those in rural areas.
- Basement Size- The bigger the basement, the more time and effort it takes to inspect it. So, you can expect to pay more if you have a larger basement.
- Property Type– Most companies charge differently depending on the type of property. For instance, commercial buildings will generally cost more due to being more complex.
- Urgency- Companies may charge a premium if you need an inspection faster.
Keep Your Inspections Up-To-Date With BMG
There are plenty of reasons to keep up with regular basement inspections. But aside from that, it’s crucial for all rental owners to regularly inspect every area of their properties. Luckily, a comprehensive team like BMG can help with it all!
Need More Advice? contact us today!
Whether you need help marketing properties, screening tenants, collecting rent, or performing inspections, we’ve got it covered. Contact BMG today to learn more about our management services throughout Baltimore, Philadelphia, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.
