Shopping for a home requires a fair amount of research, and once you find the perfect house, you should have a few experts inspect it. Some older homes contain dangerous materials like asbestos, and others have outdated plumbing systems. Check out the six types of inspection to make when buying a home so you know what you’re in for before moving in.

Radon Inspection

Testing for radon verifies that the home is safe—high radon levels increase an individual’s risk of developing certain cancers. Most experts agree that you should do this test every two years or so since levels can change.

Pest Inspection

A pest inspection is another type of inspection to make when buying a home. A home may have pests for many reasons, and some are more common in certain areas than others. If you notice the signs of an infestation, such as gnawed wiring, droppings, or hollow sounds when you knock on wood, there may be pests within the home.

Plumbing Inspection

Before you say yes to that picture-perfect home, hire a plumber to check water fixtures and sewer lines. It’s always a good idea to look into the life expectancy of sewer lines to compare it to the age of the house. Poor landscaping could affect the life expectancy of sewer lines. This means you could buy a newer home yet find issues with lines if the previous owners planted shrubbery too close.

Electrical Inspection

There isn’t anything worse than a poor electrical system. Not only do exposed wires increase the chance of electrocution, but also a fire. Have an electrician come out to verify all outlets, wiring, and electrical panels function as they should.

HVAC Inspection

Ensure the heating and cooling systems work properly. Just like any other system, neglecting this or forgetting to clean it impairs the way it functions. However, maintaining your HVAC system means proper air circulation throughout the home, so you don’t waste money on heating or cooling.

Foundation Inspection

Call a structural engineer if you notice uneven floors, cracked walls, sagging roofs, or other structural issues. Cracks and other foundation-related problems could lead to more damage within the home. By neglecting this issue, you risk costs adding up over time as you repair your home.