The worst things a home inspector can find are structural, safety, or environmental issues that compromise the home’s integrity and cost tens of thousands to fix, such as major foundation failure, extensive termite/water damage, or hazardous, outdated electrical systems. These defects are often considered dealbreakers, as they can exceed 10–20% of the home’s value to repair.
7 Major Home Inspection Issues
Top 10 Reasons Vehicles Fail Inspection:
Top reasons homes fail inspection
Foundation flaws such as cracks, troublesome tree roots and uneven settling or lack of steel reinforcement. An aging, damaged or deteriorating roof. Missing flashing or shingles. Damaged siding.
Inspectors look for potential safety issues in a home and will flag anything they spot, even if it's relatively minor. “Home inspectors are looking for tripping hazards, from cracks in a driveway or the steps into the house to missing or loose handrails,” Long says.
Typical home inspection findings
Remember that 86 percent of home inspections find something that needs a fix. An inspection report that finds issues doesn't mean the house is bad.
What are the most common problems found in a home inspection? Common things a home inspector finds include roofing issues, problems with the HVAC system, faulty electrical wiring, dry rot, mold, and structural damage.
They give you the right to back out if the inspection reveals problems you're not willing to deal with. The contingency period moves fast. You're often looking at just seven to ten days after getting the inspection report.
You should walk away after a home inspection when significant, costly issues like major structural damage (foundation, roof), serious safety hazards (mold, asbestos, faulty wiring, gas leaks), or extensive system failures (sewer lines) are found, especially if the seller won't negotiate repairs, credits, or price, or if the repairs exceed your budget and comfort level. It's about balancing major expenses against your financial well-being, safety, and future goals.
Some state organizations, such as the California Real Estate Inspection Association, also have a database of inspectors. Go to each group's website to find details about the experience and professional certifications of local inspectors and the services they provide.
Deep Clean Every Room
A clean home is essential to make a strong impression on visitors. Even minor dust or grime can be a major turn-off during an inspection. Focus on High-Use Areas: Kitchens and bathrooms should be spotless. Deep clean countertops, appliances, sinks, toilets, and showers.
The top five things home inspectors evaluate
3.9% of real estate sales fail after the contract is signed.
One of the most common deal-breakers is when the buyer feels the house failed a home inspection.
Inspectors shall report deficiencies in “the condition and performance of windows and components.” International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI): Inspectors should “inspect a representative number of doors and windows by opening and closing them.”
Who pays for repairs after the home inspection? Repairs can be paid by the buyer, seller, or both—every transaction is unique. Depending on the circumstances, the buyer may ask that the seller take care of significant safety hazards and other costly fixes. If the seller refuses, the buyer may leave the deal altogether.
A home inspection is your best tool for negotiating a home sale. After going through the home inspection report with your realtor, bring up the concerns to a home seller. You can ask the seller to make repairs or do maintenance before the sale closes. You can also negotiate a lower price instead.