Top 10 Home Inspection Red Flags - Portfolio Realty Group

Top 10 Home Inspection Red Flags

When you’re buying a home, the home inspection is one of the most critical steps in protecting your investment. A professional inspection can reveal hidden problems that could cost BIG MONEY down the line. If you’re a first-time buyer or even a seasoned move-up buyer in Niagara, knowing what to watch for during the home inspection can save you time, money, and major headaches!

As a special promotion, Portfolio Realty Group offers our buyers FREE home inspections to purchase with confidence!

You can Learn More Here

Here are the top 10 red flags you should watch for in a home inspection:

Foundation Cracks & Structural Issues

Foundation issues are one of the most serious problems a home can have.

Look for horizontal cracks in foundation walls, stair-step cracks in brickwork, and doors or windows that stick. These can indicate settling or structural movement, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair.

Most Home Inspectors are qualified to acknowledge signs of issues, but may not be versed in remedies, severity, or cost. If foundation issues are flagged, consult a structural engineer for a second opinion.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Roof Damage & Deterioration

A roof protects everything inside the home, so its condition is critical.

Signs of trouble include missing or curled shingles, sagging roof lines, and water stains in the attic. Asphalt shingles typically last 15-30 years, so check the roof’s age.

A failing roof could mean leaks, mold, and costly repairs.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Plumbing Problems

Old plumbing, particularly galvanized steel pipes, can corrode and restrict water flow.

Look for leaks under sinks, signs of water damage around toilets and tubs, and listen for noisy pipes. Water pressure tests and pipe inspections can reveal hidden problems.

Leaking or outdated plumbing can lead to major water damage and high repair bills.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Electrical System Issues

Outdated wiring, such as knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, can pose fire risks.

Ensure that the panel and breakers are updated to handle modern electrical loads. Look for flickering lights, warm outlets, or frequent circuit breaker trips as warning signs.

Unsafe electrical systems are among the leading causes of house fires.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Water Damage & Mold

Any signs of past water intrusion are cause for concern.

Water stains, mold spots, and musty odors could point to leaks that have gone unchecked. Mold is not only costly to remediate but can cause health issues like asthma and allergies.

A home inspector may recommend a mold specialist if extensive growth is found.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

HVAC System Problems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are expensive to replace.

During the inspection, the inspector will check if the system is running efficiently and whether it has been maintained. Average life expectancy for mechanics is typically 12-15 years.

Dirty filters, strange noises, or inconsistent temperatures are signs that the system may need repair or replacement.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Poor Drainage and Grading

Proper grading is essential to direct water away from the home’s foundation.

Pooling water can lead to basement leaks, foundation cracks, and mold growth. Your inspector should look at the grading, downspouts, and whether water appears to be draining correctly. Improper drainage is often a hidden threat that causes big problems later.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Pest Infestation

Signs of termites, carpenter ants, or rodents include droppings, damaged wood, and hollow-sounding walls. Pests can cause thousands of dollars in structural damage if left unchecked.

Small, dark pellets in kitchen cabinets, under sinks, in basements, or attics can signal rodents or insects like cockroaches. A persistent musty or ammonia-like odor could be caused by rodent urine, or decaying organic material from a pest nest.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Windows & Door Trouble

If windows and doors stick or won’t close, it could be a simple maintenance issue…or a sign of foundation movement. Drafty windows also hurt energy efficiency, leading to higher utility bills.

Make sure all windows and doors are inspected for proper operation and sealing.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Asbestos, Lead Paint, or Other Environmental Hazards

Homes built before the 1980s often contain hazardous materials like asbestos and lead paint.

Disturbing these materials can release dangerous fibers and particles into the air. Testing and remediation by certified professionals may be necessary.

Our Trusted Trade Partners

Protect Your Investment with Confidence

Choosing the right home is a big decision, and a thorough inspection is your best line of defense against future surprises.

As part of our commitment to helping our clients make informed and confident purchases, Portfolio Realty Group is offering our buyers FREE home inspections when you work with us.

Ready to start your search? Let’s work together to find you the perfect Niagara home and make sure it’s a sound investment from day one!

You can learn more here.

Contact us today to learn more about our free home inspection offer and current listings!

RE/MAX, LLC Real Estate Estate agents Emily Desantis, Scott Sweitzer, Chris Somerfield & Ashton Hendriks. © 2021 Portfolio Realty Group. All Rights Reserved.

The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. | All Rights Reserved | Powered By: AgentPlug: Real Estate Websites for Canadians