Even in today’s wild real estate market, it’s still an exciting time to buy a home.

Before you dive in on a deal too good to pass up, it still pays to take the time to do your due diligence, ask questions and keep an eye on the details.

While touring the home and along with a home inspection, keep your eyes open for what could be water damage.

Is Buying a Home with Signs of Water Damage a Deal Breaker?

A home with signs of water damage isn’t necessarily off the table. Along with your home inspector’s recommendations, it depends on the extent of the damage, if efforts have been made to correct the issues or if a price reduction to cover repair costs can be negotiated.

Here’s what to look for:

Exterior Conditions

There’s more to look at than curb appeal. Here are some red-flag items.

  • Wet, soggy lawn
  • Standing water or puddles around sidewalks or foundation of home
  • Condition of gutters and downspouts
  • Grading toward or away from the house
  • General position of home – at the bottom of a hill, position to neighboring properties
  • Mold or black spots on exterior of home
  • Rotting wood
  • Rusty hose bibs, fencing, outdoor decorations
  • Roof Inspection

Ask the seller about the age and condition of the roof. Note any missing shingles and inspect the attic and ceilings for any signs of water leaks or damage.

Interior Conditions

Smell for Mold

If there is a musty smell, it’s a telltale sign of excess humidity and more than likely, mold.

Listen for Drips

While touring the home, listen for the sound of dripping water. Inspect the pipes and plumbing under sinks and in the basement for leaks.

Water Spots, Rings or Stains

Check for brown or yellow discolored stains especially on ceilings, walls, floors, around windows and doors.

Look for hard water stains in showers, tubs, sinks and toilets. Hard water spots are caused by standing hard water which may mean a problem with the plumbing. It may also indicate slow draining sinks or tubs.

Notice any condensation on the windows or damp walls which could be due to some kind of a moisture or high humidity problem.

Sagging Ceilings, Bulging Drywall

If ceilings or walls have water damage stains, they can be hidden with paint. However, there’s no mistaking sagging ceilings or bulging drywall which has potentially absorbed and is holding excess water. Also check for bubbling or warped drywall.

Speaking of paint, check for signs of damaged paint such as peeling, bubbling or discoloration.

Watch for any obvious cracks in walls and ceilings.

Wood Rot

In addition to checking the condition of wooden molding, floors and doors, take a look around at any wood furniture in the home for signs of water damage such as swelling or bulging.

Lower Level

Check for the presence of foundation wall repairs, sump pumps/crocks, dehumidifiers or new floor coverings.

Conclusion

With the help of a water damage cleanup and restoration company, buying a home with past or present water damage doesn’t have to be a deal breaker.

In Sonoma County, call RCS in Santa Rosa for all of your water damage cleanup, restoration and mold remediation needs.