Disaster-Proofing Your Dream Home: 6 Safety Checks Every Buyer Should Do

Landing a foot in the residential property market takes years of planning, savings, and research. No wonder first-time home buyers are advised to proceed with caution.

The bad news? Forbes notes that the high cost of ownership will likely continue for the next several months. The good? Green shoots are slowly appearing, with a few regions witnessing a lag in home prices.

Despite news of a volatile market and warnings not to buy now, you’ve taken the leap and put in an offer to purchase your first home. The feeling is exhilarating. Yes, it needs TLC, but it’s (almost) yours and a place where you can finally put down roots.

However, ensuring your new house is move-in ready goes beyond the usual home inspection checks. Before signing on the dotted line, you want to be confident that your family and belongings are protected in a worst-case scenario.

1. Start with the Basics

It might seem obvious, but too many buyers waive inspections in a hot market. Don’t. 

A professional home inspection can reveal hidden problems that could cost you thousands later. Rocket Mortgage says an inspection covers major systems like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical, as well as roofing and structural elements. These are safety essentials. For example, old wiring can be a fire hazard, and a cracked foundation might compromise your home’s integrity.

Investopedia stresses that skipping an inspection could mean inheriting expensive problems with no legal recourse. Even if the house looks great, don’t rely on a fresh coat of paint to mask serious issues.

2. Appliance Safety Matters

A beautiful kitchen can sell a home. Don’t be dazzled by granite countertops and shiny fixtures alone. 

Appliance safety should be part of your inspection checklist. One often-overlooked hazard? Pressure cookers. Oh, can a pressure cooker explode? Yes, it can. A recent Instagram video showed a glass top stove shattering after a pressure cooker exploded while making a rice flour dish.

While convenient, they can be dangerous if used or maintained improperly. Defective pressure cookers have caused explosions, leading to severe burns, property damage, and the current pressure cooker lawsuit. Hoerman Law states that the pressure regulator can indeed malfunction. Pressure cooker explosions may occur due to excess pressure inside the lid, and a faulty gasket can lead to a pressure cooker explosion.

During your walk-through, check for signs of damage or burns around kitchen appliances and confirm the stove and outlets are up to code.

3. Check Fire and Carbon Monoxide Protection

Fire and carbon monoxide detectors are your silent guardians. Unfortunately, many homes either lack enough detectors or have outdated ones.

SafeWise recommends installing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of the home. Carbon monoxide detectors should be placed near sleeping areas and any fuel-burning appliances. Factor replacements into your move-in budget if detectors are missing or appear ancient.

Also, confirm that fire extinguishers are accessible and that there are clear exits. In a real emergency, these details make all the difference.

4. Evaluate Structural and Weather-Related Safety

Dream homes shouldn’t crumble under pressure. Pay special attention to the roof, foundation, and any signs of water damage.

Better.com suggests looking for roof leaks, mold, and cracks in the walls or floors. These are more than cosmetic flaws and could lead to bigger disasters down the line, like flooding or collapse. If the home is in an area prone to natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods), you’ll want to be extra cautious. Ask if the property meets current local building codes and whether additional reinforcement is necessary.

5. Inspect Electrical and Plumbing Systems

Outdated wiring and leaky pipes are not only inconvenient but also dangerous.

Old or faulty electrical systems pose fire risks. Check that the breaker box is labeled and that there aren’t any exposed wires. For plumbing, inspect under sinks and behind appliances for signs of corrosion, leakage, or mold. These concerns can indicate broader system failures.

An experienced inspector will catch most of these. Still, it doesn’t hurt to ask questions. Rather, be safe than sorry. It's cheaper than an emergency repair.

6. Ask About Safety Upgrades and Smart Features

Modern safety doesn’t stop at smoke detectors. Today’s homes can be equipped with smart tech that boosts convenience and peace of mind.

Wirecutter recommends smart security systems, video doorbells, and leak detectors as part of a basic safety setup. These devices can prevent small problems from becoming major ones. They also help lower insurance premiums and add value to your home. If the home doesn’t already have these features, they’re worth considering post-purchase. Make a list of upgrades and plan for them early to avoid last-minute panic.

Home Safety Priorities for First-Time Buyers

Peace of Mind Is Part of the Price

It’s easy to buy with your heart and not your head. 

Many homeowners say that purchasing their first property on a whim was the best decision they made. Others might argue that the experience was a nightmare they wouldn’t wish on anyone. But don’t let your excitement blind you to potential risks. A small investment in inspections and safety upgrades today can save you from big regrets tomorrow.  Truly loving your home means knowing it loves you back with safety, security, and peace of mind.