Avoid paying huge repair costs by taking care of small issues before they become big problems. You’ll need to be observant of changes in your home and take action when something is not right. Here are signs your home has a major problem that requires your attention. The sooner you can make repairs, often the less money you’ll have to spend.

‏Stains on the Walls or Ceiling‏

‏If you notice dark-colored stains appearing on your ceiling or walls, this could be from water damage. The bigger the stain, the longer the problem has been occurring. Unfortunately, sometimes water has been leaking for some time before the stain appears.‏

‏Unaddressed, water damage will lead to structural issues in your home. Check the roof and attic for evidence of leaks. Water leaks can also be due to a burst plumbing pipe. If this is the case, hire a plumber as soon as possible to make repairs.

‏Smells from Electrical Outlets‏

‏Smells coming from a power outlet are one of the signs your home has a major problem. A burning smell is an indicator of damaged wiring. Immediately disconnect anything plugged into this outlet and call an electrician to come to check it out.‏

‏Infested Wood is One of the Signs Your Home Has a Major Problem

‏Termites and other wood-destroying insects will cause major structural issues for your home. The quickest way to check for damage is to inspect the wood in and around your property. Look for blistering, tiny holes, or crumbling wood. Another telltale sign is mud tubes formed on the foundation. These are tunnels that termites build for protection as they travel to and from your home. ‏

‏Flickering Lights

‏Flickering lights are a sign that your house has a problem. A single flicking light could be nothing more than a faulty bulb. However, if this light continues to flicker after replacing the bulb, or if multiple lights are affected, there could be a problem with the wiring. An electrician will be able to find the source of the issue.

‏Signs Your Home Has a Major Problem Include Noisy Plumbing

‏You could have a serious plumbing issue if you hear strange noises coming from a sink or toilet. This may indicate there is negative pressure in your pipes which is causing an airlock. In some cases, a blockage can be the cause of the noise. Call a plumbing professional to troubleshoot the issue and make repairs.‏

‏You can never be too careful as a homeowner. These early signs of a problem should not be ignored. When left un-repaired, issues become worse and the remedies get more expensive. Save yourself time and money by hiring a professional at the first indication there is something wrong in your home.

North Point Home Inspections offers home inspection services in and around Atlanta, GA. Contact us to schedule an appointment.