Buyers and sellers in Mineral Wells, Texas that have city water need to be aware of some changes that have taken place in the city. It is important for sellers to know, but it is imperative for the new buyers because they are the ones that will be affected the most.
When a buyer purchases a home and goes into the water department to have their water turned on, the water department will then have them pay a $25 fee and the city of Mineral Wells Inspection Department will go out to the home and complete a Residential Certificate of Occupancy Inspection Report. There are 34 items on the checklist that need to pass inspection.
There are six sections to the inspection: Structural Standards, Property and Health Standards, Plumbing, Gas Systems, Electrical and HVAC/Mechanical. Although many of the items that are inpsected are pretty basic, there are some items that are included that many homes do not have in our area. One example would be window screens. Prior to this "code" going into place, if you purchased a home without window screens (which many older homes here do not have,) it was no big deal. Now, if you purchase a home and there are no window screens, the city inspector will mark it as an issue and any missing window screens will need to be replaced. Another example would be the vacuum breakers on hose bibs. Prior to the code, no one even knew what they were. Now you must have them on your outside faucets. A final example is your electrical panel. It must be labeled. If it is not, you will not pass and they will need to come back out and re-inspect to make sure you have labeled it.
At this time, we are not sure what the consequences are if you do not complete the items that failed. Some new homeowners have told us that the city inspector has told them that there will be a fine and then the water will be turned off. I have called and spoken with one of the employees in the inspection department and she stated that no one will have their water cut off and there are no fines. I guess we will need to keep our eyes and ears open and monitor this new "code."
In an effort to minimize problems, I will be discussing this report and what is required with all clients, whether they are buying or selling. People tend to get a little upset when they think they have done everything necessary to buy their new home, only to find out that the city is requiring more than the Federal Government or the lender.
If you are getting ready to either buy a home or sell your home, please make sure to ask your REALTOR® for a copy of the inspection report, he or she should be able to provide it to you easily. If not, you can always call the city of Mineral Wells Inspection Department.
Comments(4)