Home inspections can make or break a home sale. You may be obliged to fix a problem found by the inspector, or worse, the deal might fall through. Be sure not to lose the deal during escrow by finding out problems on your property ahead of time.
8 Most Common Home Inspection Problems
A home inspection report may identify cosmetic flaws or minor repairs, such as broken window panes. Despite this, these small items rarely cause a deal to unravel. In most cases, it’s the costly and often hidden problems that lead a buyer to refuse a project or ask for a discount.
Here are the most common things that fail a home inspection so that you have a better idea of what could delay the process.
1. Plumbing and Pipe Problems
Leaky pipes and plumbing problems are common things that fail a home inspection. This can be as simple as a leaking faucet and a slow drain, but it can also be as large as a cross-connection issue (where another water source is contaminating household water) or the need to replace the pipes. Plumbing could cause mold to spread throughout a home if a hidden leak goes unrepaired.
2. Drainage Problems
Grading around a house can negatively impact drainage and cause foundation problems. The improper grading of basements produces mildew and leaky basements. As a result, foundations may shift due to spongy soil.
Here’s how to prevent this home inspection failure:
Grade the ground with topsoil and create a 10-foot slope around the home. A slope of one inch should occur for every foot away from the home. You should also add gutters and downspouts to keep rainwater from entering the foundation.
3. Roof Issues
As with the foundation, the roof is one of the most expensive repairs you’ll have to make. In addition, it protects homeowners and the interior of the house from the elements. A roof inspector will usually check for damage, leaks, or deterioration of the roofing materials.
4. Problems with Electricity
Electrical issues can cause fires, which is why they are taken seriously. The use of multiple breakers, faulty wiring, outdated systems, and outdated systems all fail a home inspection.
Here are some things to look for:
- Exposed, faulty, or damaged wiring
- A damaged or outdated electrical panel
- Overloaded breakers
- Outlets or switches that don’t work
5. Pest Infestations
Termites, in particular, are one of the most frustrating pests for homebuyers. Insects that eat wood can cause significant structural damage if left untreated. Home inspectors are trained to look for signs of termites, but the buyer may also wish to hire a pest control company to conduct a separate termite inspection.
Here’s how to prevent this home inspection failure:
An inspection and treatment by a pest control company before a home inspection are necessary. Termites will need to be disclosed if found. You should treat the termites and get a termite bond that will protect the buyer.
6. Mold
Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, is typically associated with harmful mold in houses. Most people don’t realize that mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, headaches, skin irritation, and more.
Oftentimes, mold isn’t visible or doesn’t have a distinctive odor, so it’s more difficult to locate. Mold can grow wherever there are water-soaked materials and signs of leakage.
In your house, make sure anything wet is dried as quickly as possible. If your towels don’t seem to dry well inside the bathroom, a hanger outside might be a better option. Keep your roof free of leaks whenever they occur, and if you live in a humid area, beware of condensation that can lead to mold growth. Book an Inspection NOW!
7. Problems with the HVAC system
Safety issues can cause HVAC systems to fail a home inspection. The inspector will look for proper ventilation, the absence of leaks of refrigerant, carbon monoxide, or other harmful chemicals.
Here are some things to look for:
- Leaks of refrigerant
- Ductwork cracks
- A loose connection in an electrical system
- Noises, squeaks, or bangs coming from your unit
- Gas smell
- Detection of carbon monoxide (using a detector)
8. Structural Issues
As well as foundation problems, there can be other structural problems. Safety concerns and structural problems turn prospective homebuyers off. It may be a good idea to consult a structural engineer if you notice structural issues in your home.
Here are some things to look for:
- A sagging floor, rafters, or roof
- Sloping floor
- Cracks in brick or mortar on the exterior
- Rotted wood
- Cracks in walls or around windows and doors
- Wet subfloors
