Home inspections before a sale often uncover a handful of repair needs. Knowing the common ones can help homeowners stay informed, negotiate wisely, and plan ahead. Here’s what inspectors find most frequently.
Top Inspection Issues
Before taking a look at the list of the most frequent issues, it helps to understand why these problems show up so often. Most homes share similar components that age at comparable rates, like roofs, plumbing, and electrical panels. Combine that with regular exposure to weather, daily wear and tear, and evolving building codes, and you’ll see why inspections can turn up the same categories of concerns. Homeowners can plan and budget ahead by recognizing the recurring themes:
- Roofing problems: Cracked, missing, or curling shingles; poor ventilation; faulty flashing; gutter issues can lead to leaks or structural damage.
- Plumbing concerns: Leaky faucets, corroded pipes, outdated materials (like polybutylene), or slow drains can lead to mold or water damage.
- Electrical deficiencies: Outdated panels, improper grounding, aluminum wiring, or DIY alterations are serious hazards.
- Foundation & structural flaws: Cracks, uneven floors, sagging joists, or sticking doors/windows often signal deeper issues.
- HVAC system malfunctions: Faulty heat exchangers, blocked vents, or inefficient units increase energy bills and safety risks.
- Drainage and grading issues: Poor site grading or clogged gutters can direct water toward the foundation, risking leaks and settlement.
Why These Are Important
Many of these larger issues can cost thousands to repair if left unaddressed. A timely inspection during the home sale process lets buyers negotiate repairs or pricing before close. It also helps with long‑term planning, because finding and fixing problems now means you can avoid those surprise repairs in the future.
Inspection Insights
In a survey performed by Porch, over 86% of inspections reveal something that needs attention, from minor cosmetic fixes to serious system failures. Roofing, electrical, windows, gutters, and plumbing appear most often in reports.
Post-Inspection Actions
- Review the report with the inspector to understand its severity.
- Consult specialists if needed. Plumbers, electricians, or foundation experts can provide estimates.
- Negotiate wisely. Inspection issues can be leverage for repair credits, price adjustments, or warranty offers.
- Plan future maintenance. Smaller-ticket items like GFCI installation, gutter repairs, or HVAC servicing may be scheduled later.
FAQ
Q: If the inspection finds something serious, do I have to walk away from the deal?
A: No. An inspection finding doesn’t necessarily stop a sale. It gives you information. You and the seller (or your broker) can negotiate how to address the issue. Options include repairing before closing, reducing the price, or establishing a future maintenance agreement (in writing).
Q: Should I still have an inspection on a newer home?
A: Yes. Even newer homes can have defects! Common issues in newer homes are improper installation, builder oversights, or new‐home settling. Because inspection finds are common across all age homes, it’s smart for any homebuyer to have one.
Q: Can the inspection report be used after I own the home?
A: Absolutely. You can use the findings to inform your maintenance plan. It also gives you a baseline of your home’s condition, which can be helpful for future inspections or when it comes time to sell.
Knowing the most common home inspection issues empowers you to act confidently when buying a home. Finding issues, from minor leaks to major structural needs, protects your investment and your family’s safety. Local home inspectors and contractors can guide you through repairs or preventive upgrades with care and expertise.