Home Safety Inspection Checklist

It is important to do a routine home safety inspection to make sure your home is as safe as possible for you and your family. A home safety inspection can be quickly and easily done using a checklist and should be performed not only before you move in to a new home, but also while you live there to make sure that there are no repairs that have become necessary.

Electrical System

• Your home's electrical system should be checked by a professional electrician prior to purchasing the house. It should also be routinely inspected to make sure that the wiring system is up to date and that everything is functioning properly. A malfunctioning outlet or an old wire can cause electrocution or pose a fire hazard. Shut off electricity to and replace any component that is malfunctioning or out of date to help keep you and your family safe.

Foundation

• The foundation of your home should be checked by a building inspector. A foundation that is cracked or damaged by water or other factors could cause serious structural damage to your home. This could be a serious safety hazard for your family. Repair any damage to the foundation as quickly as possible, using a certified contractor who can make sure your home's foundation meets current building codes and requirements.

Plumbing

• Your home's plumbing system has the potential to be a safety hazard. Before purchasing a new home, make sure that the plumbing system is carefully inspected for leaks, rusting or damaged pipes, or other malfunctions. Problems with your plumbing system can lead to other issues such as structural or foundation damage that could be more costly to repair. Turn off the water to any area experiencing plumbing problems and quickly repair any leaks or broken pipes.