Common Inspection Findings
Common Inspection Findings in Homes and Commercial Buildings
Whether you’re buying your dream home or investing in a commercial property, a thorough inspection is crucial. The untrained eye might miss hidden problems, but experienced inspection professionals know where to uncover potential issues. This can help save you from costly repairs down the road.
Here are some of the most common issues our inspectors find in their investigations. Remember, specific findings do vary depending on the age, location, and type of building being inspected.
What to Watch for in Texas Home Inspections
- Foundation problems: Cracks, uneven floors, foundation settlement. Pier and beam foundations may have rotting wood or loose piers.
- Roof issues: Due to strong winds and hail, Texas homes are prone to roof damage such as missing shingles and leaks.
- Exterior issues: Cracks in brick or stucco, signs of water intrusion, and improper drainage around the foundation.
- Faulty electrical systems: Outdated wiring and overloaded circuits.
- Plumbing problems: Leaks, corrosion, or outdated pipes.
- HVAC system problems: Inefficiency or lack of maintenance.
- Water damage: Signs of past leaks and potential mold growth.
- Termite infestation: Evidence of termite activity indicating potential structural damage.
- Window and door problems: Drafts or damaged seals.
- Pool and spa issues: Leaks, cracks, faulty pumps or heaters, or improper electrical wiring around the pool area.
Typical Home Inspection Issues in Nevada Homes
- Foundation issues: Cracks, settlement, or evidence of past repairs.
- Roof issues: Flashing problems, deterioration due to sun exposure, and improper ventilation leading to heat buildup.
- HVAC system problems: Improper sizing for the home, inefficient operation due to age or neglect.
- Pool issues: Leaks or cracks, and malfunctioning pumps.
- Electrical Issues: Aluminum wiring (often present in older Nevada homes) and outdated electrical panels.
- Plumbing Issues: Leaks around fixtures, improper venting, or low water pressure.
Residential Inspection Concerns in Maryland and Virginia
- Foundation issues: Cracks in basement walls or foundation slabs, uneven floors, signs of water intrusion around the foundation.
- Roof issues: Damage from hail or wind (common in these areas), improper flashing around chimneys and vents, deterioration due to age or lack of maintenance, and signs of moisture intrusion or leaks in the attic.
- HVAC system issues: Improper sizing for the climate (important for both hot and cold seasons), and lack of maintenance.
- Water heater issues: Leaking or rusty water heater, or insufficient capacity for the household’s needs.
- Pest activity: Evidence of common household pests (termites, carpenter ants, rodents).
- Electrical issues: Aluminum wiring (present in older homes), frayed or outdated wiring, and improper grounding.
- Plumbing issues: Leaks around fixtures, clogged drains, and outdated galvanized pipes.
- Mold and moisture issues: Visible mold growth, signs of past water damage, condensation problems in bathrooms or basements, and insufficient ventilation in crawlspaces or attics.
Common Findings in Commercial Inspections
- Structural issues: Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings, uneven floors, signs of foundation movement or settlement, deterioration of structural supports (beams, columns).
- Roof issues: Leaks or signs of moisture intrusion, improper drainage leading to ponding water, deterioration of roofing materials due to age or weather.
- HVAC system problems: Inefficient operation due to lack of maintenance or improper sizing, deterioration of equipment, and inadequate ventilation throughout the building.
- Life safety concerns: Faulty fire alarm systems, inadequate emergency exits, or lack of proper fire separations between different areas.
- Electrical issues: Overloaded circuits, outdated electrical panels, improper grounding, and damaged or exposed wiring.
- Plumbing issues: Leaks in pipes or fixtures, clogged drains, low water pressure, and improper venting of plumbing systems.
- Building Code violations: Outdated features not meeting current building codes or improperly installed building materials.
- Accessibility issues: Non-compliance with accessibility standards (ramps, handrails, doorways), and inadequate lighting in stairwells or common areas.
- Environmental hazards: Presence of asbestos or lead paint (common in older buildings), evidence of mold growth, or suspected presence of other hazardous materials.
