Are These Hidden Hazards Lurking in Your Home?

Many homes, especially older ones, harbor potentially expensive problems that aren’t obvious—until they are. Electrical systems can fail or start fires. Pipes and roofs can leak. Foundations can settle. Just because systems look fine or seem okay doesn’t always mean they can be ignored. Take some time to assess the health of these key home systems before an emergency strikes.

Hidden Hazard #1: Outdated Electrical System

Many New York area homes were built and wired long before families used the amount of electricity they do now. If lights dim when using a power-hungry appliance, such as a microwave or air conditioner, circuits may be overloaded. If circuit breakers (or fuses in older homes) trip from time to time, the current electrical system may not be equipped for modern electrical loads.

Homes built before 1950, for example, were wired for 60- or 100-amp service, often only with 20-amp circuits. A couple of window air conditioners or countertop kitchen appliances can easily overload the circuits, which can lead to overheating and fire. A couple of decades later, when copper costs skyrocketed, many homes were built with aluminum wiring, rather than the usual (and safer) copper. Aluminum wiring is unsafe and can easily overheat. Older homes may also have ungrounded outlets (two prongs rather than three).

Even owners of newer houses who buy an electric vehicle may find that their homes require expensive upgrades to handle the additional load of charging a car.

Signs You Might Need an Electrical Upgrade

An electrician can quickly assess whether the current electrical system is safe and can handle both current and future demands. Having a professional evaluate your current electrical system and advise you regarding future needs is time and money well spent. (Plus, an updated system can help you qualify for lower insurance premiums.)

Before calling in a pro, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do lights ever dim or flicker when using an energy hog, such as an HVAC system, oven, or microwave?
• Do any outlets have older, two-prong receptacles?
• Do bathrooms/bathroom circuits have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets or breakers? (These devices usually have a test and/or reset button.)
• Are any outlets scorched or warm? (Pro tip: If ants are milling around an outlet, that’s a sign. Ants are attracted to warmth.)

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, call an electrician now to prevent future problems.

Hidden Hazard #2: Antique Plumbing System

The charm of older homes often compensates for a lack of modern conveniences. When it comes to plumbing, homeowners don’t want to take chances on an outdated system.

Most houses built before 1960 use galvanized pipes, which have an average lifespan of 50 years. While at least some of that piping might have been replaced over the years, owners of older homes should check for any areas that have not. By the time the flow turns to a trickle or pipes start to leak, it’s too late to do anything except bite the bullet and replace the pipes with better material. Homes with cast iron pipes and some other materials can face the same fate.

Leaking or blocked pipes can be expensive, especially if the leaks damage walls, floors or your home’s contents.

How to Prevent a Plumbing Disaster

A thorough inspection and test by a qualified plumber, including a hydrostatic test, can spot many potential problems when they’re much simpler and cheaper to fix. If you notice any changes, such as decreased water pressure or an unusually high water bill, contact a plumber immediately.

Hidden Hazard #3: Roof or Gutter Damage

The harsh weather and temperature fluctuations in the Northeast can damage roofs and gutters. An asphalt shingle roof, the most common type, has an average lifespan of 20 years. Even before then, loose or missing shingles, improper flashing, or lower quality materials or construction can lead to leaks and other problems.

Roof Maintenance and Replacement

Many reputable roofing companies will inspect a roof and make minor repairs for a relatively low price. This kind of roofing tune-up is generally money well spent. Make sure to check out the gutters as well.

If you need to replace the roof, research material options and roofing contractors. Fight the temptation to settle for cheaper shingles or other materials that won’t last as long. Opting for newer, more energy-efficient materials can lower your utility bills.

Hidden Hazard #4: Foundation Problems

Houses move over time. Soil shifts. Foundations expand and contract. Even the most solid home can become less stable as the years pass.

Cracks in walls can be cosmetic or structural. Uneven floors are almost certainly signs of structural issues. Foundation repairs are expensive, and they can disrupt living in the house for days or weeks.

Ensure Structural Stability with Professional Help, Routine Maintenance

At the first sign of potential trouble, such as an uneven floor or a crack, get a professional evaluation. Even before any signs of trouble, keep water away from the foundation with gutters and landscaping. Water can cause significant damage to even newer foundations.

Serving New York City Area Homeowners Since 1976

Stu Cohen and his team at City Building Owners Insurance specialize in insuring residential and commercial properties throughout the New York metropolitan area. Request a complimentary, no-obligation policy review to ensure you have the right policy and coverage for your unique situation. We can also recommend opportunities for you to lower your risk profile to qualify for better rates and coverage. Put our risk management specialists to work for you.