Owning a home is a big part of the American dream for many people. But being a homeowner isn’t always so easy. From minor inconveniences to major issues, homeownership can come with a lot of challenges that require attention and resolution. Fortunately, if you stay vigilant in taking a proactive approach, you can enjoy all the perks that come with homeownership without the headaches that typically arise. To help guide you through the process, here are six common household problems that homeowners encounter, plus how to fix them.

1. Foundation Issues

Uneven floors, doors that refuse to close properly, or cracks in the walls commonly point to a problem with your home’s foundation. So if you notice any one of these signs, be sure to address them promptly.

For example, you can patch up tiny cracks in the wall with epoxy, or use shims or door-stoppers to fix stubborn doors that won’t close. But for bigger foundation issues, always reach out to a structural engineer who can determine the severity of the issue and provide a suitable plan of action.

2. Leaky Roof

Is there anything worse than having a leaky roof, especially during a rainy season? The sound of water slowly dripping from the ceiling is enough to make anyone frustrated. And to make matters worse, when too much water accumulates in your space, it can cause a lot of damage to your belongings and even the entire structure.

To prevent structural damage to your home, prompt action is of utmost importance. First, identify the source of the leak — i.e. damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or a worn-out seal. Then, depending on how severe the leak is, you can seal the area with roofing cement or replace damaged materials.

If that doesn’t work, be sure to contact a professional who can evaluate and fix the leaking.

3. Plumbing Problems

Another common complaint many homeowners have is issues with plumbing. No matter if you have a clogged toilet or a major pipe burst, plumbing issues are the absolute worst.

Not only do plumbing issues give us the ick, but they can be pretty costly to fix, too. Having a dripping faucet or a running toilet contributes to higher water bills over time, which is why it’s important to address the problem as soon as it arises.

Luckily, you can typically fix a minor leak with a wrench or by simply replacing an old, fatigued washer. And of course, regular maintenance — i.e. clearing clogged drains and inspecting pipes — is also helpful for preventing plumbing problems from arising in the future. When it comes to the more complex plumbing issues, calling a professional plumber is always the best idea.

4. Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are commonly found in moist environments such as the bathtub or kitchen sink. And unfortunately, once mold and mildew take hold of your surfaces, it can be really hard to remove them.

To keep this from happening to you, prevention is key. That means ensuring your rooms are properly ventilated, that any leaking you encounter is promptly repaired, and that you use dehumidifiers in damp spaces.

And if you do happen to find mold somewhere in your home, be sure to clean the area with a mixture of water and mild detergent or white vinegar to gently remove the growth. However, in severe cases, you can opt for professional mold remediation, which can guarantee thorough mold removal, plus keep it from ever coming back.

5. Electrical Malfunctions

If you notice flickering lights, faulty wiring, or constantly tripping breakers in your home, beware. Ignoring the signs of an electrical malfunction can cause a fire hazard, which can put you and your household in immediate danger.

When repairing electrical malfunctions, safety should be the top priority. To stay safe, always start by turning off the power to the affected area. Then, be on the lookout for loose connections, frayed wires, or signs of burning around outlets. These can signal an urgent need to contact a professional electrician who can handle such complicated matters in a way that complies with local codes and keeps you safe.

6. Pest Infestations

Another common household problem is pest infestations. Creepy crawlers like ants, cockroaches, termites, and even rodents can do a lot of damage to your home, both inside and out. And sometimes, it’s easier to keep them out of your home than to get rid of them once they’ve made their way inside.

For this reason, prevention is your best bet when it comes to pest control. To practice preventative measures, seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior, keep food contained and properly stored, and repair any moisture issues that attract critters.

But of course, if you’re dealing with an infestation, be sure to hire a professional pest control service that can help.