Home Buyer Turn Offs, Russell Hayek

It might seem like a small thing, but a light switch plate that doesn’t sit flush against the wall can send a big message to buyers — and it’s not a good one. This photo shows more than just a cosmetic flaw. Gaps like this can be a safety hazard. A curious finger (especially a child’s) could slip in and get cut or worse — come in contact with exposed wires. It also raises concerns about fire risk if the box inside isn’t properly secured or the wiring is strained. Also, it screams poor workmanship. If this easy fix was skipped or rushed, buyers start wondering what else in the house was done the same way.

You wouldn’t trust your buddy to do surgery, so why let him wire your water heaters? This photo shows a classic case of a well-meaning but dangerous DIY job: two gas water heaters plugged into a power strip — dangling between copper pipes no less! Not only is this a major fire and electrical hazard, it’s also a violation of basic safety codes. Water heaters should never be plugged into extension cords or power strips, hiring a licensed electrician could save your home — and maybe your life. Photo: Russell Hayek, For more posts on Home Safety, enter Home Safety in the search bar, top of page .