Is It Safe Using Your Basement for Utilities?

A basement is the lowest storey in a house, usually below the ground level, or partially below it. Houses in the warmer climes usually do not have basements, as they do not find them necessary. Most houses in the east coast are usually constructed with a basement. If you are in the process of buying a home and if that home happens to have a basement, it is advisable to have the basement inspected carefully.

It was a norm, in the older homes, to have water heaters and furnaces installed in the basement. Even today, people install water heaters and furnaces, along with their washers and dryers, in the basement. A basement is thought of more as an area where utilities are installed. It helps, as they do not take up valuable living space.



Basement and Safety

Having water heaters and furnaces in the basement could be a matter of concern. Without enough ventilation, there is every chance of Carbon Monoxide (CO) escaping into the house. Lack of proper ventilation in the attic can cause depressurization, which can continue into the basement, causing CO poisoning. Does the house have a certified CO detector installed? If the house you are considering has utilities installed in its basement, ensure that there is proper ventilation throughout the house.

Check to see if the basement has been finished or not. Basements have a nasty habit of collecting water. Check to see if there is any standing water or traces of moisture in the basement. The water could be because of water leak, and the moisture due to condensation. Check to see watermarks on the walls of the basement.

Excessive water in the basement could affect the foundations of the house. It is necessary to find out the reasons of water in the basement and whether it can be corrected or not. In most cases, water in the basement is due to faulty drainage in the exterior of the house, causing the excess water to drain into the sidewalls of the house, and hence into the basement and the foundations. See whether there are any cracks in the walls of the basement.

Find out the cost of repairing drainage problems, ventilation problems, etc. If the ventilation is not enough, what would it cost to have this corrected. You will need to factor these extra costs before deciding to finalize the deal.

You need to see if the seller is ready to provide you with a home warranty. This will save you exorbitant repairing and replacement costs later.