Top Home Inspection Issues
Top Home Inspection Issues
Here are some common problems that general home inspections bring to light.
1. Plumbing:
• Leaking around exposed pipes, particularly with washing machines.
• Outdated pipes. It's common to find old Polybutylene pipes, which your inspector will recommend replacing.
2. Electrical:
• Ungrounded outlets. You can recognize these by their two-slot configuration versus the three-slot configuration of a grounded outlet. Most inspectors will recommend that you upgrade to grounded outlets.
• Improperly wired breaker boxes. Common hazards include two circuits on a single-pole breaker, oversized breakers, double-pole breakers that supply two single circuits, and wires that cross over the panel's center.
3. Heating:
• Leaks in piping or heating unit; air ducts that need cleaning.
• Not enough insulation. Insulation requirements vary by location, but an improperly insulated home will always lead to high energy bills.
4. Drainage:
• A wet basement is a problem because it indicates that water isn't properly draining away from the home.
• Mold in the air. When water isn't draining properly, it can result in mold in the air. Mold can also be a byproduct of dry rot.
5. Roof:
• Torn and cracked shingles, or flashing that's not properly installed. Each of these can cause roof leakage.
6. Walls:
• Bowed or damaged walls and signs of mold or water problems
7. Dry rot:
This occurs when fungus grows in your home's wood due to high condensation. The affected wood will have to be replaced.
Another main concern is figuring out why the condensation is occurring in the first place.
8. Foundation Issues
• Cracks in the foundation walls, uneven flooring, doors and windows that do not close properly would indicate that there has been a shift in structural integrity.
• Inspectors often recommend further evaluation from a structural engineer.
9. Windows and Doors
• Inspectors will take note of the windows that are foggy or have broken seals or even if it is improperly installed.
• Doors that don't close or latch properly can indicate settling or framing issues.
10. Ventilation Issues
• Poor attic or crawl space ventilation that produces moisture build-up, mold, or ice dams in colder climates.
• Homes with improper bathroom/kitchen exhaust can also face mildew issues.
11. Pest or Rodent Evidence
• Even if a pest inspection is separate, general inspectors often note signs like chewed wires, droppings, or termite tunnels.
• Especially critical in areas prone to infestations.
12. Exterior Elements
• Problems with siding, gutters, or drainage slope around the foundation are important and often missed.
• Cracks in walkways, loose railings, or deteriorated decks may also be noted.
13. Safety Hazards
• Missing smoke detectors, non-GFCI outlets in wet areas, lack of handrails on stairs, or trip hazards in flooring may be flagged.
• These are especially important for families with kids or elderly members.
14. Water Pressure and Plumbing Flow
• Inspectors often check water flow at sinks and showers, and identify issues like water heater age or inconsistent water pressure.
Home Inspection Myths:
- “You don't need a home inspection for a newly constructed home”. Not so. Property defects come upon new construction all the time. A house that is new may still have some imperfections or was not built on standard.
- “You don't need a home inspection if you're buying a home warranty.” This is also not true because home warranties rarely cover everything. It is recommended even that you need to know any potential or hidden problems so you and the seller can take care of them.
What Happens After the Home Inspection?
Buyers should review the inspection report with their agent, decide whether to request repairs, renegotiate the price, or walk away. Sellers should anticipate that flagged issues may become negotiation points and prepare accordingly.
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