Common Home Problems

No house is perfect. Even the best built and best maintained homes will always have a few items in less than perfect condition. Many inspectors will tell you as well as some builders will admit, "there is no such thing as a perfect house." Below are some of the items we most commonly find when inspecting a home:

	Roofing: Problems with roofing material are the single most common defect we find. Nail pops, ladder gouges, and improperly installed flashing are common.  Usually it doesn't mean the roof needs replaced, simply that it is in need minor repair.
	Electrical hazards: Most common in older homes, but often found in newer homes as well. Electrical hazards come in many forms, from ungrounded outlets to wiring done incorrectly by the homeowner.
	Failing or improperly terminated Gutters: Clogged, damaged or missing gutters means there will be water near the foundation which will eventually make its way into the basement or crawlspace.  This can contribute to potential damage to foundations, footings, and structural building components such as eaves and floor joists.  Water also attracts unwanted pests like termites.
	Water heater installations: Many water heaters are not installed in full compliance with local plumbing code.  Thermal expansion tanks are now required when replacing the water heater.
	Foundation Cracks: Cracks in foundations are amazingly common. In fact, you can pretty much count on them happening. For the most part, they're nonstructural and cosmetic in nature. As such, foundation cracks are rarely disasters. However, they can indicate factors such as construction defects, shifting ground, or moisture problems in the ground under and around the foundation, all of which can cause structural problems.
	Plumbing defects: Plumbing issues commonly found include dripping faucets, leaking fixtures, slow drains etc...  In new homes, it is common to identify minor plumbing defects such as that water supply connection for the toilet not being securely tightened.
	Ceiling stains: Caused by past or present leaks, ceiling stains are very common. It can be difficult to tell whether the stains are from leaks still present, or if they were caused by leaks which have since been repaired. Sometimes these are concealed with paint.
	Rotted wood: Caused by being wet for extended periods of time, most commonly found around tubs, showers and toilets inside, or roof eaves and trim outside.  Many times, this is concealed with a recent coat of paint and may not be identified.
	HVAC Systems/Gas furnace, air conditioners & heat pumps:  Routine maintenance is often overlooked.  Filters may be missing, dirty or incorrectly installed.  Connections for condensate piping may be loose and leaking.  Systems with inadequate fire clearance, poor flame quality, as well as aging and underperforming systems all need to be checked out.

The list goes on and on...

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