This post may contain affiliate links.
Home inspections act as a safety net for potential homeowners, often revealing hidden problems that may not be visible during a casual walkthrough. A home inspection can take anywhere from two to five hours and you should expect to pay $300-$500 for this service.
During a home inspection, a certified inspector examines various aspects of the property, including the roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural integrity. However, about 24% of new home buyers report that their homes failed the first inspection. Let’s take a look at which parts of your house will always fail a home inspection:
The Foundation
Approximately 25% of homes face foundation issues at some point in their lifespan. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) reveals that 80% of structural insurance claims are related to foundation movement. Common culprits of foundation failure include poor drainage, expansive soil, and even plumbing leaks.
Cracks in the foundation can lead to bigger problems, like uneven floors or doors that won’t close properly. Look for those telltale signs—like cracks wider than a quarter, bowing walls, or damp basements. Regular maintenance, such as ensuring proper grading and cleaning gutters around your home, can prevent foundation woes.
The Roof
A National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) study estimates that routine maintenance can extend a roof’s life by as much as 50%, but many homeowners overlook this crucial upkeep. Common issues include missing shingles, leaks, and poor installation.
If your roof is approaching the end of its life expectancy, it could lead to costly water damage and mold growth inside your home. Look for worn, cracked, or missing shingles, and double-check the flashing around chimneys and vents. If you notice some wear, engage a reputable roofing contractor for possible repairs or a complete replacement.
Electrical Systems
Home inspectors often flag issues like ungrounded outlets, frayed wires, or outdated knob-and-tube wiring. For example, many homes built before the 1970s still possess aluminum wiring, which can be a fire hazard. The Electrical Safety Foundation International warns that over 51,000 home fires are reported yearly due to electrical failures, leading to more than $1.3 billion in property damage.
The average cost to upgrade an electrical panel ranges from $550 to $3,000, depending on your location and home size. Look for flickering lights, burning smells near outlets, and any visible signs of outdated wiring. Make sure to replace any frayed or outdated wiring and ensure that all outlets and circuits are GFCI-compliant.
Plumbing
Common plumbing failures include inconsistent water pressure, rusty pipes, and mold caused by leaks. For example, if you notice a dripping faucet or damp spots on the ceiling, it could signal hidden plumbing problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually.
Regularly inspect for leaks under sinks and behind toilets, test water pressure in various faucets, and look for discolored water, which might indicate pipe corrosion. Consider updating outdated piping, especially if you have galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes. Investing in a smart water monitor can also give you peace of mind.
HVAC Systems
Over 50% of energy consumption in homes stems from heating and cooling. A malfunctioning HVAC system can also result in insufficient airflow or inconsistent temperatures throughout your home. Inspectors frequently find issues such as dirty filters, neglected ductwork, and outdated systems that violate local codes.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Schedule annual check-ups with a qualified technician to ensure everything is running smoothly. Change your air filters every 1-3 months, and keep an eye on any unusual noises or fluctuating temperatures, as these can be red flags. Inspect the system’s age (units over 15 years old are often problematic).
Windows and Doors
Common culprits include warped frames, worn-out weather stripping, and broken seals, which often result in foggy, cloudy glass. Drafty windows can lead to an estimated 25-30% increase in energy costs, and a poorly functioning door can compromise security and insulation.
Look for signs of rot, mold, and drafts around windows and doors, condensation between window panes, and difficulty opening or closing them. Next, check the seals: are they cracking or loose? If so, you can either caulk the gaps or replace the weather stripping for an immediate upgrade.
If your doors and windows are beyond repair, consider upgrading to newer energy-efficient models. This will not only save money on energy bills but also add to the overall value of your home.
Drainage
When water doesn’t drain away from your home effectively—due to clogged gutters, ineffective grading, or blocked downspouts—it can lead to moisture buildup in basements and crawl spaces. This can weaken your home’s foundation over time. The EPA notes mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure.
Make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris. A quick seasonal check can prevent heavy water buildup. Additionally, ensure your landscaping is graded away from your foundation—ideally, the soil should slope downwards at a rate of 1 inch for every 1 foot. Downspouts should extend at least 5 feet away from your foundation unless they are connected to a rainwater catchment system.
Attic and Insulation
Poor insulation can lead to a myriad of issues that inspections can uncover, such as drafty rooms, skyrocketing energy bills, and even moisture problems that invite mold to the party. A study by Boston University School of Public Health estimates that roughly 90% of U.S. homes are under-insulated, resulting in higher energy bills and poor temperature regulation.
Properly insulating your home can save up to 50% on heating and cooling costs. Start by doing a quick DIY check: look in your attic for signs of moisture, pest invasions, or gaps in the insulation. Investing in modern insulation materials, such as spray foam or rigid foam boards, can make a tremendous difference.
Appliances
Faulty appliances hint at age and can indicate deeper issues, such as improper installation or neglect, which can lead to potential hazards like electrical fires or water damage. Common culprits for failing inspections include refrigerators not cooling correctly, broken dishwashers leaking, and washing machines with worn-out hoses.
Always check for appliance recalls through the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website and conduct regular maintenance checks. Clean out refrigerator coils, check for leaks, and ensure that your exhaust fans are functioning.
Exterior
The exterior of your house sets the tone for everything that follows. Siding, paint, and other materials can deteriorate over time, affecting aesthetics and structural integrity. Examine for peeling paint, damaged siding, and signs of rot or mold.
Give your siding some love—whether wood, vinyl, or brick—by ensuring it’s free of cracks and mold. A fresh coat of paint looks great and protects your materials from nature’s wrath.
Floors
Flooring issues, from wobbly floorboards to unsettling creaks, can signal deeper problems lurking beneath the surface. This is often due to signs of water damage, which can indicate potential plumbing leaks or moisture intrusion—two issues that inspectors will definitely take note of. Missing or damaged tiles, sagging vinyl, and loose carpeting may also indicate structural weaknesses.
Look for signs of wear and tear, such as bumps, dips, or discoloration. If you detect any hazards, address them promptly. For instance, consider hiring a professional to evaluate your plumbing if you’ve noticed water stains. Regular cleaning, sealing, and reconditioning can extend the life of many flooring types.
Ceilings and Walls
Cracks, stains, and sagging can signal deeper issues—like structural problems or water damage—that might scare off potential buyers. The defects you might encounter include drywall issues like cracks caused by settling, peeling paint indicating moisture problems, or mold growth lurking in neglected corners.
For example, if your home has a basement, it’s essential to check for signs of water intrusion. Approximately 98% of basements in the U.S. suffer some level of water damage. Look for any cracks or discoloration that might signal trouble. If you notice anything concerning, like bowing walls or persistent damp spots, it’s best to consult a professional.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
13 Ways Homeowners Waste Money on Renovations
Homeowners often underestimate expenses and overlook essential details, leading to financial waste. To help you navigate your home improvement projects in a financially responsible way, here are 13 common mistakes that can lead to wasted money on renovations.
13 Ways Homeowners Waste Money on Renovations
14 Home Maintenance Skills You Need to Know Before Buying a House
Owning a home often comes with an endless list of projects to address. Fortunately, many of these home improvement and maintenance jobs can be tackled without the need for a professional. Here are 14 essential home repairs you should know before buying a house.
14 Home Maintenance Skills You Need to Know Before Buying a House
16 Germiest Places in Your Home That Need a Deep Clean
It’s easy to overlook the hidden areas that accumulate dirt and germs over time. These often-forgotten spots can turn into breeding grounds for pests and bacteria. Here’s a rundown of the dirtiest places in your home.
