While it can be convenient to buy and move into a home that’s already been vacated by its owners, problems can arise if it’s been empty too long. Infestation of furry creatures is just one hazard. Vacant homes are especially prone to leaks and floods, which will most likely require costly improvements, including new appliances. Before deciding on a dwelling that that no one’s inhabited for a while, keep these potential problems and fixes in mind.
Dried and cracked seals –
The problem : Plumbing is a vacant house’s vulnerable spot. Instead of turning off water and draining and treating pipes to prevent extreme fractures, many absentee home owners will shut off the water at a toilet or sink valve. However, this ensures that the person who next opens that valve will be mopping. Each plumbing fixture’s valve needs water to stay pliable. It is dries out, the seal will crack and will not be able to do its job. Once the valve opens and the water turns on, a leak or flood will likely follow.
The fix : Make sure all water and valves are turned and left on for several days before a home inspection. Your inspector will get a good sense of potential problems, so you can avoid paying for a pricey plumbing repair or water damage.
Finicky appliances –
The problem : Appliances in an empty home can also take a hit. The valves in dishwaters can get stuck in the closed position when they sit around unused for weeks on end. Once you turn that water on again, you might face a leak, a flood or at least the need for a replacement.
The fix : Since it’s hard to know how long an appliance has been sleeping, try negotiating the purchase price to reflect the need for a new dishwasher, washing machine or refrigerator with ice and water features.
Low flowing faucets –
The problem : Long un-used faucets can be drippy once the water is turned back on. If the home’s pipes are galvanized steel, there’s a good chance that scaly minerals in the water have built up inside the pipes. When water has been off for a while and then turned back on, the deposits may prevent water from flowing at normal velocity.
The fix : If the faucet spits and sputters or the flow is drastically reduced, you should try turning the water on and running both the hot and cold at each plumbing fixture to clear any air from the system. Then turn off the faucets and remove the aerator (screen disk) from each fixture and clean it if there is visible debris. Run the faucet without the aerator to flush the system, and then replace it.
Bats in the attic –
The problem : Overtime, a home without humans can be a camp out for many creatures. Squirrels who have access to the roof can chew access holes that they use as a revolving door. They can also chew insulation and wiring, and can be hard to detect.
The fix : Many pest removal companies offer inspection services to spot infestations and other animal related problems. And even though it’s a few unplanned hundred dollars, that extra set of eyes could save you more later on.
