Costly home repairs can come about suddenly, but some risk factors can indicate that one may be on the horizon. Recognizing these risk factors or minor maintenance issues in advance can help you mitigate issues before they get larger, or indicate that it may be time to start saving up for when you need to repair. While this list is certainly not extensive, there are some early signs of expensive maintenance issues on the horizon which every homeowner should look out for.
Unexpected Water Bill Increase
Your water bill can act as the canary in the coal mine when it comes to the need for repairs. Leaks from faucets, toilets or outdoor irrigation are commonly missed and can cause costly damage if left untreated. A spike in your water bill is generally caused by excess water usage; if you have no explanation for the increase, consider a leak the potential culprit.
Dripping or Leaky Pipe
Hearing a constant dripping isn’t just annoying—it can be the start of a maintenance issue that will be extensive to repair. Untreated leaks, especially those hiding under bathroom cabinets or in pipes within walls, can cause mold or mildew, electrical damage and structural damage. Thankfully, a leaky pipe is often inexpensive and relatively simple to repair. Even less-experienced DIYers can tackle the job, so be sure to address the issue quickly.
Flickering Lights or Warm Outlets
Electrical issues are not a maintenance problem that can be ignored. An electrical issue won’t just result in an expensive repair; it can cost you your life or your home. Annually, home electrical problems result in an estimated 54,000 fires, which can cause untold expenses and can even result in the death of occupants.
Knowing the warning signs is key:
- Unexplained flickering lights
- A foul burning rubber or plastic smell
- Outlets or light switches that are hot to the touch
Growing Cracks in Walls
Cracks in the walls or ceiling aren’t just aesthetic issues; they could be the result of a much more costly problem. At their worst, cracks can indicate moisture issues, thermal contraction or expansion, and settling from normal fluctuations or shifting due to poor construction. If a ceiling crack is wider than 1/8th of an inch, be sure to have it inspected. Horizontal cracks in basements may indicate a structural issue, as can stair-step cracks in brick or block walls. Addressing these issues may be expensive, but it is vital to have them looked at before it gets worse.
