Answering 15 Top Googled Questions from New Homeowners in Chicagoland
By White Glove Building Inspections Inc. | Chicagoland, IL
This post answers fifteen common questions Chicago-area first-time homeowners ask about moisture intrusion, radon, HVAC life expectancy, gutter cleaning, winterization, roof replacement, masonry upkeep, and other core maintenance/inspection concerns.
1. Why does my basement smell musty, and how do I know if I have a moisture problem?
A musty smell is often a sign of excess moisture, even if you don't see standing water. Check for damp walls or floors, condensation, mold growth, or high humidity. A dehumidifier can help, but it's important to find and correct the source of the moisture.
2. How often should I test my sump pump, and do I need a backup sump pump?
Test your sump pump several times a year, especially before Chicago's heavy spring and summer rains. Pour water into the sump pit and make sure the pump starts and drains properly. If your basement depends on a sump pump, a battery backup can provide valuable protection during power outages or pump failures and is highly recommended.
3. Should I have my new home tested for radon?
Yes. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through cracks and openings in the foundation. You can't see or smell it, so testing is the only way to know whether elevated levels are present. Every home should be tested, even newer homes.
4. Why are there cracks in my basement walls or foundation?
Some foundation cracks are minor and related to normal settling, while others can allow water into your basement or indicate a more significant structural concern. Pay particular attention to cracks that are widening, horizontal, or accompanied by bowing walls or water intrusion. When in doubt, have the crack evaluated by a qualified professional.
5. How do I keep my basement from flooding during a heavy Chicago storm?
Start outside: make sure gutters are clear, downspouts discharge away from the foundation at least six feet, and the ground slopes away from the house. A good rule of thumb for grading requirements around the perimeter of a foundation is a 6-inch drop in elevation in the first 10 feet out from the foundation. Inside, make sure your sump pump is working and consider a backup system. During major storms, these simple maintenance steps can make a big difference. Nowadays, a water alarm system can be installed for early warning.
6. How often should I clean my gutters, and where should my downspouts drain?
For most Chicago-area homes, gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year—typically in the spring and fall. Homes surrounded by trees may need more frequent cleaning. Downspouts should direct water well away from the foundation rather than allowing it to collect next to the house. A good rule of thumb for grading requirements around the perimeter of a foundation is a 6-inch drop in elevation in the first 10 feet out from the foundation.
7. What should I do to prepare my house for a Chicago winter?
Before freezing temperatures arrive, check your furnace, replace the furnace filter, inspect your roof and gutters, and disconnect outdoor hoses. Make sure exterior water lines are protected and that doors and windows seal properly. A little preparation in the fall can prevent some very expensive winter surprises.
8. When should I replace my furnace or air conditioner?
Age, frequent repairs, declining performance, and rising energy costs can all indicate that replacement is approaching. Many furnaces and air conditioners last roughly 10–20 years, depending on the equipment and maintenance. Have older systems evaluated before they fail—especially before Chicago's hottest or coldest weather.
9. How often should I change my furnace filter?
A good rule of thumb is every 1–3 months, but it depends on the filter, your home, and how much it is being used. Homes with pets, allergies, or higher dust levels may need more frequent changes. Check the filter regularly—if it looks dirty, replace it.
10. How do I know if my roof needs to be replaced?
Look for missing or damaged shingles, excessive granule loss, visible sagging, leaks, or deteriorated flashing. The age of the roof is also important; many asphalt shingle roofs last roughly 20–30 years. If you're seeing multiple warning signs, a professional roof inspection can help determine whether repair or replacement makes sense.
11. Why is water getting into my basement after it rains?
Rainwater can enter through foundation cracks, poorly sealed windows, floor/wall joints, or from drainage problems around the foundation. Clogged gutters and downspouts that discharge too close to the house are common contributors. Finding where the water is coming from is the first step toward fixing the problem.
12. How often should I inspect or repair the brick and mortar on my house?
Take a close look at your brickwork at least once a year, particularly after Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles. Watch for cracked or deteriorating mortar, loose bricks, bulging walls, or areas where water can penetrate. Small mortar problems can often be repaired before they become much larger—and more expensive—issues.
13. What maintenance should I do every year as a new homeowner?
Think of your home like a car: regular maintenance helps prevent expensive repairs. Check your roof, gutters, foundation, plumbing, HVAC equipment, sump pump, smoke/CO detectors, and exterior drainage/downspouts each year. It is also good to drain your water heater several times a year to clear out the sediment that collects at the bottom. Periodically check the traps under sinks and periodically check your foundations for cracks or signs of water penetration. With Illinois’ varying temperatures in winter, spring is a good time to look for any new cracks in the foundation.
Keeping a simple home-maintenance checklist can help you stay ahead of problems.
14. What home problems should I fix immediately, and what can wait?
Problems involving water intrusion, electrical hazards, gas leaks, structural damage, or no heat in freezing weather deserve immediate attention. Cosmetic issues and minor wear can usually wait. When you're unsure, addressing a small problem early is often cheaper than waiting for it to become a big one.
15. What should I have inspected after buying an older Chicago-area home?
Older homes deserve a closer look at the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical system, HVAC, drainage, windows, masonry, and attic. Depending on the home's age and history, you may also want to consider radon, sewer, chimney, or other specialized inspections. The goal isn't just to find problems; it's to understand what your new home may need in the years ahead and regular maintenance procedures.
Schedule your inspection today:
📞 (630) 428-4555
📍 Serving all of Chicagoland
Preparing to buy a new home? Have the home professionally inspected and get real answers.
Comments