Top Home Inspector Finds: Problems and Solutions

Here are the 10 top defects home inspectors find, and how you can tackle them before your home inspection.

An MSN.com article lists the 10 most common defects that home inspectors tend to find. By reviewing this list of problems and solutions, you can tackle the problems before you have a home inspection!

1. Problem: Poor Drainage
Solution: Depending on the degree of problem, this may require the installation of a new drainage system, which would include roof gutters and downspouts. An alternative solution would be to have everything re-graded in order to improve how water is channeled away from your house.

2. Problem: Faulty Wiring
Solution: This is typically an older house problem, and can be extremely hazardous. Hire a professional to see what parts of your electrical system need to be replaced in order to bring your house up to code and make it safe.

3. Problem: Leaky Roof
Solution: If the leak is caused by damaged shingles or improper flashing, these items are relatively inexpensive to replace, and can possibly be done yourself. If your roof is old and the problem is more fundamental, then it could require a whole roof replacement.

4. Problem: Unsafe Heating System
Solution: Replacing the boiler can be expensive, but will also lead to greater energy-efficiency, which can save you money and be a plus for prospective buyers! If your furnace is not electrical, you should also install carbon monoxide detectors throughout the house.

5. Problem: General Poor House Maintenance
Solution: If poor maintenance leads to cracked or peeling paint, crumbling masonry or broken fixtures, then these are easy to replace or fix. However, if the problems are more electrical or plumbing-related, then these items may need replacing by a professional.

6. Problem: Minor Structural Damage
Solution: This is a “catch it early” problem, before it becomes more serious. Fix the cause of the problem, such as water seepage, then repair or replace the damaged items.

7. Problem: Plumbing Problems
Solution: If the problem is old/incompatible piping materials or faulty fixtures, then these items can simply be replaced. Anything more complicated may require professional attention

8. Problem: Leaky Seals
Solution: If your windows and doors are letting water and air in, then this is typically indicative of poor caulking and weather-stripping, which are simple repairs to make.

9. Problem: Inadequate Ventilation
Solution: In order to fix the problem, make sure there are ventilation fans in all high-moisture rooms, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. Also, make sure you regularly open all windows to improve ventilation. Once you’ve fixed the cause, you need to tackle any problems the poor ventilation has caused, such as replacing drywall.

10. Problem: Problem: Environmental Hazard
Solution: These require a special environmental hazard inspection to detect and can be costly to repair. The typical environmental issues that arise include lead-based paint, asbestos, formaldehyde, contaminated drinking water, radon and leaking underground oil tanks.

<< Back to Home