It’s always a good idea to have a professional inspection done before purchasing a home. A home inspector knows exactly what to look for to prevent costly problems in the future. Most homes have a few problems when they go up for sale, but some properties have serious issues that will cost thousands to repair. In this post, we’ll list the most common issues found in a residential home inspection.
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Moisture Buildup
Moisture buildup isn’t just one of the most common issues found during a home inspection…it’s also one of the most serious. Moisture buildup is always the result of some other issue that hasn’t been properly repaired. Some of the most common causes of moisture buildup include:
- Improper Grading
- Inadequate Drainage
- Poor Ventilation
Old/Damaged Roofing
It’s easy to forget to keep an eye on your roof, especially if you rarely go into your attic. However, it’s crucial to inspect your roof inside and out periodically to be sure there are no issues with its integrity. Damaged or old roofing can let rain, debris, and animals into the home, all of which are expensive to remedy.
Illegal Construction
People often mistakenly believe that if they own a property, they can do any type of construction or renovation they want. However, many areas have strict building codes that require permits and inspections of any new construction. When homeowners do not follow the rules and attempt to sell the home, an inspector can easily tell that new construction was completed without a permit. The homeowners are then required to pay legal fees trying to get the construction approved or completely demolish the unpermitted construction in order to sell the property.
Architectural Inconsistencies
It may seem petty, but differences in building styles can lower the value of a property. Potential buyers may want the inconsistencies to be corrected before completing the purchase. Depending on the extent of additions made, this can be costly for the seller.
Outdated Electrical Wiring
Electrical problems plague older homes, and not just because there are not enough outlets. Exposed wires, knob, and tube wiring, and running multiple extension cords or surge protectors are all common problems observed during home inspections.
Outdated Plumbing
Plumbing pipe has come a long way over the years, and outdated pipes can cause leaks, moisture damage, and even foundation issues. Suitable plumbing pipe materials include copper, stainless steel, PVC, CPVC, PEX, and cast iron.
HVAC Problems
From using HVAC units too small for the home’s square footage to dealing with a carbon-monoxide leaking NOX rod consolidated furnace to damaged air ducts, there are all sorts of issues that can occur with a home’s HVAC system. While a home inspector can spot common HVAC issues, a specialist should be called in if there are any concerns.
Inadequate Insulation
Insulation is essential for keeping the electric bill under control, but many home builders skimp on it to cut costs. That leaves the homeowner holding the bag down the road when they cannot efficiently cool or heat their homes. The home inspector will not only look for rolls of insulation in the attic, but also for any inside the walls or around windows and doors.
