Lehigh Valley Chimney Repairs When Buying A Home

One of the most common problems found on a Lehigh Valley Property Inspection, with an older home, is the chimney.

The chimney may need a liner, repointing, flashing or a cap. Any of these items may present a safety or water hazard and will likely get tagged during a property inspection on an older home.

When a Lehigh Valley Home Buyer is viewing the interior of the home, check the area around the chimney involving any ceilings or the roof. Do you see water stains or paint that is lifting up? If so, there may be a problem with the chimney.

The exterior of the house should also be checked. Locate the chimney and check out the exterior wall near the base of the chimney. A common problem with a brick exterior is the deterioration or rounding of the bricks near the chimney. The mortar becomes like sand and the bricks show rounding from the water running over them. It is possible that the chimney problem may have been fixed but not the damage it had done.

If interested in the house, but concerned, ask your Lehigh Valley Real Estate Agent if the seller is aware of or has fixed any problems with the roof or chimney.