Purchasing a home is an exhilarating journey, but it often involves unexpected surprises during the property inspection process. From hidden leaks to electrical issues, the most common problems encountered during home inspections include structural damage, roof and plumbing issues, outdated electrical panels, HVAC concerns, water damage, termite infestations, safety hazards, and drainage problems.
Whether you’re searching for a home in Beaverton, OR, Moonachie, NJ, or Scranton, PA, this comprehensive guide from Redfin is designed to help you identify these warning signs early on so you can proceed with confidence and peace of mind.
Common home inspection problems
Certain issues tend to surface more frequently during home inspections. While some may be minor, many can impact the safety, comfort, or maintenance costs of a home. Here are the top 10 most common home inspection problems that inspectors often come across.
- Structural issues
- Roof issues
- Plumbing issues
- Aluminum wiring
- Dated electrical panels
- HVAC systems
- Water damage
- Termites
- Safety issues
- Drainage problems
Red flags identified during home inspections
While wear and tear are common, major issues can impact negotiations, closing, and purchasing decisions. Here’s how to address these home inspection findings.
>> Read: Home Inspection Resources for Homebuyers and Sellers
1. Structural issues
Structural issues can be costly to repair and may indicate serious foundation problems. They can affect the stability, safety, and resale value of a home. If left unattended, the damage can worsen, leading to higher repair expenses and safety concerns.
“In addition to safety, the most severe defects in a home are typically structural,” says Scott Johnson, the 2025 president of American Society of Home Inspectors. “When an inspector identifies a structural defect, it’s crucial to determine if it can be rectified by a qualified structural contractor or if it requires the expertise of a professional engineer with a Residential Construction specialization, also known as a structural engineer. Your professional home inspector can assist in making these decisions.”
Signs to watch for: Large cracks in walls or ceilings, uneven or sloping floors, doors or windows that stick, bulging or bowing foundation walls, and gaps between baseboards and floors.
Actions to take:
- Engage a licensed structural engineer for a thorough assessment
- Obtain quotes from contractors to estimate repair expenses
- Utilize the report to renegotiate the purchase price
Estimated expenses: The typical cost range is $2,200 to $8,100, but costs can vary significantly based on the extent of foundation damage.
2. Roof issues
Roof replacement is often a costly endeavor, and even newer roofs can have issues due to improper installation or storm damage. A deteriorating or old roof can result in leaks, mold growth, and high energy bills.
Signs to watch for: Missing, curling, or cracked shingles; visible sagging; signs of water seepage in the attic; excessive granule loss in gutters; and stained ceilings.
Actions to take:
- Request documentation regarding the roof’s age and past repairs
- Engage a roofing contractor to evaluate the damage
- Inquire about a roof certification or warranty transfer, if available
- Negotiate for repairs, a new roof, or a price reduction based on the roof’s condition
Estimated expenses: The typical cost range is $5,868 to $13,216 based on the size, pitch, and material required for the roof repair.
>> Read: Should You Get a Roof Inspection Before Buying a House?
3. Plumbing issues
Old pipes, such as galvanized steel or polybutylene, in older homes often lead to expensive plumbing problems like leaks, water damage, and mold growth. Inspectors examine water pressure, corrosion, slow drains, and signs of water damage.
Signs to watch for: Corrosion or discoloration around joints, low water pressure, water stains on ceilings or under cabinets, slow drains, and unusual noises from pipes.
Actions to take:
- Have a licensed plumber conduct a detailed inspection if red flags are present
- Check for signs of outdated materials and inquire about previous leaks
- Ensure water heaters, sump pumps, and waste lines are functioning properly
- Utilize the inspection results to request replacements or credits at closing
Estimated expenses: The typical cost range is $180 to $600, but costs can escalate to $4000 for major repairs.
4. Aluminum wiring
Aluminum wiring is commonly found in older homes from the 1960s and 70s but has been identified as a fire hazard, particularly if not properly maintained. It has a tendency to expand and contract more than copper, potentially leading to loose connections and overheating.
Signs to watch for: Wires labeled “AL” or “ALUM,” switches or outlets that feel warm to the touch, flickering lights, and discolored or scorched cover plates.
Actions to take:
- Have an electrician verify the presence and extent of aluminum wiring
- Inquire if previous owners have installed copper pigtails or specific connectors
- Factor in the cost of rewiring or safety upgrades when making a decision
- Collaborate with your insurance provider to determine coverage requirements
Estimated expenses: The typical cost of rewiring a home from aluminum to copper ranges from $2,000 to $12,000, with an average cost of $6,000.
5. Dated electrical panels
Outdated or overloaded electrical panels pose a safety risk and may not meet modern power requirements. Inspectors assess amperage, condition, and code compliance, as some older panels and brands are fire hazards and cannot support new appliances.
Signs to watch for: Panels from brands like Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) or Zinsco, visible rust or scorch marks, use of fuses instead of circuit breakers, and inadequate amperage (less than 100 amps for most modern homes).
Actions to take:
- Have an electrician inspect the panel and circuit load
- Replace outdated or unsafe panels with modern alternatives
- Ensure the system includes appropriate grounding and GFCI protection
- Request the seller to complete upgrades before closing or offer a repair credit
Estimated expenses: The typical cost range to upgrade or replace an electrical panel is $800 to $4,000, although costs can increase if major rewiring or code updates are required.
6. HVAC systems
HVAC systems impact comfort, air quality, and energy expenses. An aging system may necessitate replacement, and inadequate maintenance can result in mold or dust accumulation in ducts. While inspectors evaluate functionality, a comprehensive tune-up report is ideal.
Signs to watch for: Weak airflow, inconsistent temperatures between rooms, visible rust or moisture around the unit, excessive dust in vents, and unusual noises during operation.
Actions to take:
- Request HVAC service records, filter replacement frequency, and system age
- Hire an HVAC technician to assess any identified issues
- Inquire about duct cleaning if air quality appears poor
- Negotiate for repairs, cleaning, or complete replacement if the system is failing
Estimated expenses: The typical cost range is $5,000 to $11,000, but installing a new HVAC system with ductwork can range from $7,000 to $16,000.
7. Water damage
Water damage, a prevalent issue in home inspections, often indicates leaks, inadequate drainage, or plumbing malfunctions, resulting in mold or wood decay. Stains on walls or ceilings can indicate past or ongoing issues.
Signs to watch for: Stains or discoloration on walls and ceilings, warped flooring, musty odors, mold or mildew growth, and peeling or bubbling paint.
Actions to take:
- Utilize a moisture meter to check suspicious areas
- Engage a specialist to conduct mold testing if necessary
- Request evidence of past repairs from the seller
- Demand remediation or negotiate a price reduction for potential mold or decay issues
Estimated expenses: The typical cost range is $1,500 to $9,000, although larger or severe cases can exceed that amount.
8. Termites
Termites silently damage wood, weakening the structure of a home. Infestations are often unnoticed until significant damage occurs