If you’re about to purchase a home, there is a lot that you need to know about the home inspection process. A home inspection can often make or break a home purchase if serious issues are found.
Several issues may be commonly found when inspecting a home. Let’s discuss the top 5 most common home inspection findings now.
1. Roofing Issues
Roofing problems are quite common in home inspections. As the house ages, the materials that cover the roof do, as well. For example, most asphalt shingles last between 15-40 years, so a typical roof will have its shingles replaced multiple times throughout its lifespan.
Harsh weather is prone to can take a toll on a roof. Missing shingles are widespread and easily replaced. Soft spots or serious structural damage show up from time to time, though, which can become a costly and time-consuming repair.
If the roof has been improperly maintained, it’s more likely to be faulty. However, this is not usually a deal-breaker when a home is inspected. You can negotiate a lower price on the home, as you will have to invest money into roof repairs or replacement.
2. Faulty Or Inadequate Electrical Wiring
Inspectors commonly find stripped wires, improper connections, underpowered breakers, exposed wiring leftover from previous repairs or renovations. These problems are considered safety hazards and should be addressed immediately.
This is mostly a problem in older homes. Most modern homes have an ample supply of electrical power and are wired to meet all modern electrical codes and standards; this is often not the case in older homes built in the 1940s-1960s.
Depending on the scope of the wiring issues, this could be a big problem after a home inspection. On the other hand, it may be a simple fix or require the complete overhauling of the electrical system – it really depends on the specifics of the wiring found. Ask your home inspector for a recommendation on the next steps.
3. Improper Attic Ventilation And Insulation
Some homes were not built with energy efficiency in mind. For example, an attic that lacks proper ventilation may be stifling and hot in the summer and can even increase the risk of mold and other problems due to heat buildup. Some attics may also not have proper insulation, which reduces energy efficiency.
Typically, this is not a big deal. It’s fairly simple to ventilate an attic or add more insulation, so if your inspector finds this, it’s not a cause for concern.
4. Poor Grading And Drainage Around The Home
When it rains, the water needs to go somewhere and not anywhere close to the house. Because rain runoff isn’t a constant threat, these are often issues that inspectors find. Pooling water around a foundation can cause decay, mold, and stability issues for the house as a whole.
This is a major cause for concern. If the grade and drainage around the home are not adequate, water can easily leak into the basement or even make it to the foundation, which may crack or become damaged.
Water damage is a serious issue. If your inspector finds that the grading and drainage around the home could pose a risk, hire a professional to assess the integrity of the basement and foundation before continuing the home-buying process.
5. Plumbing Problems
Your inspector may notice several plumbing problems, such as low water pressure, leaks, damage to pipes, slow drains, or signs of leaks. Plumbing problems are severe due to how the high costs of water damage. Therefore, if signs of water damage or serious plumbing issues are found, a more thorough assessment should be performed.
Usually, the issues found within a plumbing system are easily repaired—things such as leaky connections or dripping faucets. However, inspectors come across grossly damaged and defective systems that require total replacement now and then.
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Home inspections may seem complicated, but they don’t have to be! Just make sure to hire the right inspector, listen to their advice, and do your due diligence before you decide to purchase a home.