Planning a move to the United States? If you’re searching for a new home in the USA, before you get settled in, it’s important to understand that certain essential things related to home infrastructure may be quite different from those in your home country. These include electrical systems, plumbing, heating and cooling, safety features, and much more. 

Thankfully, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you identify key areas to check, ensuring your new home is safe, functional, and ready for your big move. So, whether you’re visiting the property in person, advising a surrogate, or doing a remote view online – take these tips to heart. A thorough inspection now will shield against potential heartbreak later on!

Inspect the structural integrity of the property

Let’s start with infrastructure. As you survey the property, look for any signs of damage or wear that may indicate some underlying issues:

  1. Check the foundation for cracks or unevenness – this could be an indicator of settling issues or potential structural problems.
  2. Look at the walls. Do you see any cracks, wet/damp spots, or signs of mold? Any one of these can be a symptom of water damage or poor construction.
  3. Get a view of the roof. Look for missing shingles, leaks, or damage. In particular, since roof repairs can be quite costly, it may be worth involving a specialist qualified to assess the roof.
  4. Inspect the floors and check for any squeaks under your weight, sagging/uneven areas. If you see this, be aware that this could also signal some issues related to structural integrity of the home.

Don’t let electrical problems come as a shock

A safe, functional electrical system is critically important. Employing the services of a licensed electrician to inspect the system can help identify any potential hazards or problems.

  1. There are particular codes related to electric installation in the USA, so ensure all the wiring is up to code and in good condition; if you absolutely must perform this inspection on your own, look for exposed wires or outdated electrical systems.
  2. Test all the outlets and switches and verify that they are working correctly. Check for any signs of overheating or damage.
  3. A breaker panel is an electrical panel is a metal box with a door, full of toggles that can toggle breaker switches on and off. Check that the breaker panel is properly labeled and in good working condition. An overloaded or faulty panel can be a fire hazard. 

Go deep when checking the plumbing system

A thorough inspection of the plumbing system can prevent future headaches and costly repairs.

  1. Get your pipes in order: check for leaks, corrosion, or outdated piping materials. 
  2. Ensure the water pressure is adequate throughout the property.
  3. Inspect sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs for leaks or drainage issues, and make sure they all function properly.
  4. Ask about what kind of property the water heater or boiler that the property uses, verify that it is in good working condition, and check for any signs of rust or leaks. Different water heating systems can produce different amounts of hot water within a range of time frames. Additionally, there are various kinds of water heaters. Make sure the capabilities and type of water heater match your particular needs.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) uncovered

A well-maintained HVAC system is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. There are different possible setups for these, so be mindful about what system your future home has, and ensure that it’s well equipped to deal with the climate where the real estate is located.

  1. Check for any signs of wear, damage, or inefficiency with the furnace and air conditioner. Ensure the units are adequately maintained and serviced regularly.
  2. Inspect the ductwork for leaks, debris, or blockages. Clean ducts can improve air quality and system efficiency.
  3. Ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly – and consider if it’s worth upgrading to a programmable thermostat for better energy management.

Safety first

You’re looking for a new home, and keeping it safe should be a top priority. With this in mind, let’s take a look at areas to hone in on.

  1. Test all of the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 
  2. Look for functional fire extinguishers in key areas, like the kitchen and garage.
  3. Check for existing security systems and consider installing or upgrading them for added peace of mind.

Don’t let pests be a pest

Pests can cause really significant damage to a property, so checking for this is absolutely worth your time – you don’t want to deal with any uninvited guests. Consider hiring a pest control professional for a thorough inspection!

  1. Termites: look for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes or damaged wood.
  2. Rodents and Insects: Check for droppings, nests, or other signs of infestations. 

Buying a property in the United States demands due diligence. Go through this checklist with your potential new home – before you move in – and you can avoid unexpected problems and make your move with confidence and peace of mind. As always, when in doubt, do consider hiring independent professionals for specialized inspections.