Okay, so you hired a home inspector and you have the report in your hands. What frequently unfolds during a home inspection can be a labyrinth of discoveries, ranging from minor quirks to potentially deal-breaking issues. In this exploration, we delve into the realm of common home inspection findings and unravel the mysteries behind what they truly mean for those embarking on the journey of homeownership. Here are some of the comments you might see on your report.

“Roof shows signs of hail damage. Recommend a qualified roofing contractor to evaluate and repair.”

Upon inspection, it’s evident that the roof has sustained significant hail damage. Those telltale dimples and cracks scattered across the shingles are not to be underestimated. Hail damage might not always be immediately obvious, but it can have long-term consequences, leading to leaks, compromised structural integrity, and even higher insurance premiums. It’s essential to address this issue promptly, either through repairs or insurance claims, to ensure the roof’s longevity and the safety of the home. Roof repairs might seem like a hassle, but they are a small price to pay for peace of mind in the long run.

“Receptacles in the upstairs bathroom did not have GFCI protection. Recommend a qualified electrician to evaluate and repair.”

GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter, outlets are a modern standard in bathrooms and areas that are prone to moisture. GFCI outlets are designed to detect ground faults, which occur when electricity flows outside the intended circuit path, often through a person. This can happen if an electrical device gets wet, if there’s a fault in the wiring, or if someone accidentally touches a live wire. GFCIs immediately cut off power when they detect even a minor imbalance in the electrical current, preventing potentially lethal electrical shocks. Their installation in areas with a higher risk of ground faults is a simple yet effective measure to reduce the chances of electrical accidents and injuries.

“Water was observed in front of the dishwasher after running a cycle. Recommend a qualified plumber or appliance specialist to evaluate and repair.”

A leaky dishwasher might seem like a minor inconvenience, but its consequences can be far-reaching and costly. Over time, even small, unnoticed leaks can result in water damage to the surrounding cabinetry and flooring, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacements. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth, posing health risks and necessitating remediation efforts. If left unaddressed, a leaky dishwasher can turn from a minor annoyance into a major household problem, underscoring the importance of regular maintenance and swift action to prevent extensive damage and associated expenses.

“Stair-step cracks were noted along the south wall of the exterior foundation. Recommend a licensed foundation repair specialist to evaluate and repair.”

While not every crack in your walls spells disaster, stair-step cracking stands out as a particularly worrisome foundation issue. These distinctive cracks, often seen in block foundations, become especially problematic when they traverse mortar joints, which are critical for your foundation’s integrity. Stair-step cracks stem from foundation settling and infiltration of moisture from the exterior. The relentless pressure exerted by surrounding soil can accelerate their growth, potentially leading to substantial structural harm. Addressing stair-step cracking promptly is crucial to mitigate the risk of further damage and maintain the stability of your home’s foundation.

“Evidence of organic growth was observed in the utility room. Recommend a mold mitigation specialist to evaluate and repair.”

If you have any suspicions of mold presence within your home, it’s important to inquire whether your inspector is equipped to conduct mold testing. While there might be a modest additional cost involved, this fee pales in comparison to the potential harm that unchecked mold growth can inflict as it proliferates and spreads throughout your property. The dangers of mold growth in a home cannot be overstated. Mold not only compromises indoor air quality, triggering allergies and respiratory issues, but it also poses serious health risks, especially for those with weakened immune systems. Beyond health concerns, mold can cause structural damage to the building by eating away at wood, drywall, and other materials. It can also lead to costly repairs and reduced property value. Furthermore, mold infestations are often indicative of underlying moisture problems, which, if left unchecked, can perpetuate mold growth and worsen the situation. Timely detection, remediation, and addressing the root causes of moisture are essential in safeguarding both the health of occupants and the integrity of the home.

“An active wasp nest was noted on the soffit outside the master bedroom window. Recommend a licensed pest control specialist to remove.”

Wasps are known for their aggressive defense of their nests, and disturbing them can result in painful stings that, for some individuals, may trigger severe allergic reactions. Moreover, the presence of a wasp nest near or on the home can make outdoor spaces hazardous, limiting outdoor enjoyment. In addition to the safety concerns, wasps can also cause structural damage by chewing through wood and insulation to expand their nests. Prompt removal by a professional exterminator is essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety and integrity of the home.

“The air conditioning unit did not respond to the requests made by the thermostat. Recommend a licensed HVAC contractor to evaluate and repair.”

Occasionally, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) issues may appear straightforward and manageable. However, it’s wise to entrust these matters to a knowledgeable professional until the precise nature of the problem is understood. Beyond the obvious issue of reduced indoor comfort, an inoperable air conditioner can also lead to indoor air quality problems as proper ventilation and filtration become compromised. Additionally, prolonged AC downtime can result in increased humidity, potentially fostering mold growth and attracting pests. From a practical standpoint, it may necessitate costly repairs or replacements if not addressed promptly. The inability to cool the living space not only impacts daily routines but can also lead to higher energy bills as alternative methods like fans or portable AC units are deployed to combat the heat. Therefore, a non-functioning AC is not merely an inconvenience; it can disrupt the well-being and convenience of a household in various ways.

“The living room floors exhibited a noticeable sag. Recommend a licensed flooring contractor/structural engineer to evaluate and repair.”

A sagging floor can indicate underlying structural issues within a home, potentially stemming from various causes such as weakened support beams, excessive moisture, or foundation problems. Beyond being aesthetically displeasing, it can lead to more severe problems over time, including misaligned doors and windows, cracked walls, and uneven surfaces that pose tripping hazards. Addressing a sagging floor promptly is essential to prevent further damage and ensure the overall stability and safety of the property.

“The attic had an inadequate amount of insulation recommended for this area. Recommend an qualified insulation technician to evaluate and remediate.”

Inadequate attic insulation can lead to a host of issues in a home. Insufficient insulation allows heat to escape during the winter, causing increased energy bills and discomfort. Conversely, during hot summer months, it lets heat penetrate, making cooling systems work harder and driving up energy costs as well. Additionally, poor attic insulation can result in uneven temperatures throughout the house, leading to discomfort and making it difficult to maintain a consistent climate. Beyond the financial and comfort-related concerns, inadequate insulation can contribute to moisture problems, potentially leading to mold growth and structural damage. Therefore, ensuring proper attic insulation is vital for energy efficiency, comfort, and the overall health of your home.

There are more items that may come up on your inspection report. However, these are some of the more common items home inspectors come across. Other findings in home inspections can range from minor issues to major concerns, and their significance depends on various factors, including the property’s age and condition. Buyers should work closely with their real estate agent and home inspector to understand the implications of these findings and decide whether to negotiate for repairs, a lower purchase price, or reconsider the purchase altogether. Ultimately, a thorough home inspection empowers buyers to make informed decisions and ensures they are making a sound investment in their new home.