How to Look for Water Damage in a House

Water damage can be repaired, but if you do not fix the real problem then it will just recur.

Water damage can indicate major problems with a house's foundation, pipes or past maintenance. If often indicates a serious problem with the structure of the building and can serve as a red light to potential buyers. Whether you are buying or selling a home, you will need to be sure that you have eliminated all signs and sources of water damage before moving forward. In this article, we will discuss how to look for water damage in a house.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Flashlight

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Instructions

How to Look for Water Damage in a House

1. 

   Check all pipes, faucets, seals and fittings.Look for dripping pipes, pools of moisture under sinks and damp smells under cabinets. All of these things indicate a potential water damage problem. Even if they are not currently a big deal you will still need to get them fixed before they ruin cabinetry or floors.

2. Look under sinks and behind washing machines for brittle hoses.Hoses that are cracked or no longer flexible are more likely to leak or break, creating a huge mess.

3. 

   Examine the overflows on the refrigerator and the air conditioner.If these containers appear to have standing water or are not draining properly, they represent a water damage hazard and should be repaired or replaced.

4. 

   Climb up on the roof.If you notice holes, discoloration of the shingles or roofing material or detect "soft spots" in the roof while you are walking around on it, this is a clear indication of water damage. You will need to investigate the attic as well should you find any of these signs.

5. 

   Look closely for signs of discoloration.Darkened spots on the walls, ceiling, carpets or hardwood floors can indicate a slow-leak problem. Even if the area is not damp currently, the discoloration is indicative of a chronic problem that could return with one heavy storm.

6. Check out the gutters.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not climb on a roof without proper equipment and experience. You may wish to hire a professional roofer to help you with this step.