Home inspections inform buyers of any issues with their potential new houses. Depending on the number and severity of problems, the sellers can lower the price or keep it the same after performing the repairs themselves. If you’re thinking about putting your home on the market, learn about the most common issues identified during house inspections to help you prepare.

4 Common Problems Discovered During Home Inspections

1. Old Roof

Shingle roofs typically last 20 to 25 years with the proper care, while metal, terra cotta, concrete, and slate roofs can last 50 years or longer. If your roof is nearing or past its expiration date, it becomes vulnerable to leaks, mold and mildew growth, and insulation degradation.

Depending on the material, you may have curling and missing shingles, cracked slate, terra cotta, and concrete tiles, or wood rot and insect damage to the roof decking. If the roof is older and repair costs keep mounting, replace the roof.

2. Insufficient Attic Insulation & Ventilation

If your attic does not feature proper insulation and ventilation, heat can become trapped. Excessive attic heat causes condensation that leads to mold and mildew growth, which can cause allergy and asthma flare-ups. Mold can also break down wood causing structural damage. 

Too much attic heat creates problems in winter when it melts snow on the roof. Melting snow refreezes along the edge of the roof, forming ice dams that inflict material stress and contribute to leaks.

3. Damp Basement

The subterranean nature of basements makes them susceptible to musty odors from mold and mildew growth. Cracks in the foundation allow water to infiltrate the space and increase the chances of flooding during storms.

Without a functional sump pump and basement waterproofing measures, the room will remain damp and mold-prone. Discuss options with your local basement waterproofing contractor to dry the space out before the home inspection.

4. Electrical Problems

Older homes may still include aluminum electrical wiring, which increases the fire risk. Other electrical issues found during home inspections can include stripped wires, loose outlets, flickering lights from faulty connections, charred outlets, and breakers that are not equipped to handle modern appliances. Contact an electrical contractor to determine whether your home needs a few repairs or a complete upgrade.

If you need a home inspection, trust the team at Twin City Home Inspections Inc. These licensed and insured inspectors provide buyers and sellers with comprehensive inspections and same-day reports. They have 11 years of experience servicing Texarkana, TX, and the surrounding areas, as well as parts of Arkansas. Call (903) 276-9566 today for a free estimate or learn more about inspection services online. Get the latest tips on Facebook.