Each homebuyer has different ideas of what will constitute the ideal home for them, these notions often based on particular aesthetic preferences. But one thing that unites all potential homebuyers is the desire to find a home that is fundamentally sound—in areas beyond the immediate sweep of the eye—and that will provide a safe, comfortable, and efficient foundation for their life behind a new door.
This is where the services of a home inspector come in. During a home inspection, at least 30 areas of the home are placed under the home inspector’s “microscope.” We’ve compiled the ten most common weaknesses uncovered in a typical home inspection. If not addressed, these problems could cost you thousands of dollars in the long-run. So, knowing what to look for, and performing your own thorough pre-inspection, will help you to identify areas for repair or improvement before they grow into costly problems.
1. Damp Basement
A mildew odour, which is difficult to mask, is often the first sign.
Inspectors look for whitish mineral deposits on walls and judge whether items can safely be stored on the floor.
Repairs may cost from $200 to $15,000.
2. Poorly Installed / Defective Plumbing
Common in older homes.
Inspectors test for leaks, clogging, and water pressure (e.g., faucets and toilet flush test).
Dirty water on first use may signal rusted pipes.
3. Older / Poorly-Functioning Heating and Cooling Systems
Inspectors assess the age and condition of systems.
Cracked heat exchangers in forced air gas systems can leak carbon monoxide and must be replaced.
Replacements improve efficiency and reduce energy bills.
4. Older / Unsafe Electrical System
May include undersized service, aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring, or poor renovations.
Over-fused circuits create fire hazards.
Upgrading to a circuit panel costs several hundred dollars.
5. Older / Leaking Roof
Asphalt roofs typically last 15–20 years.
Leaks may indicate shingle deterioration or storm damage.
Inspectors check how many layers of shingles exist before recommending full removal and replacement.
6. Minor Structural Problems
Includes cracked plaster or slight foundation shifts.
Common in older homes and should be addressed early to prevent escalation.
7. Poor Ventilation
Bathrooms and kitchens without vents promote mold and fungus.
Poor air quality can trigger allergies and damage surfaces.
These issues should be fixed before permanent harm occurs.
8. Air Leakage
Drafts may be caused by poor seals, old caulking, or worn weather strips.
These are usually inexpensive and easy to fix.
9. Security Features
Inspectors evaluate locks, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors.
Missing or outdated security features should be updated for safety.
10. Drainage / Grading Problems
The most common issue found by inspectors.
Causes basement dampness and mildew.
Solutions include new gutters, downspouts, or lawn re-grading to divert water from the home.
