A leaky faucet or standing water in your yard seem like small annoyances; however, they can cause big problems, and expenses around the house. Check out these signs that you should watch for in and around your home –
Critters
Ants scurrying on countertops or mouse droppings in HVAC grilles are signs that you have openings in your house that need to be closed, says Steve Gladstone, owner of Stonehollow Fine Home Inspection in Stamford, Conn. Check places like exhaust vents, condensate lines, pipes, ducts, utility access panels and garage doors — you’re looking for obvious gaps, signs of chewing or nesting, or ripped screening.
Mold
You should expect to find mold occasionally in wet spots like the kitchen and bathroom, but when you see it someplace it shouldn’t be — like on the living room walls — call a professional for evaluation. You want an independent inspector certified by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene or the American Council for Accredited Certification. An inspector can tell you whether you can clean up the mold yourself or whether you need the services of a remediation company.
