COMMON DEFICIENCIES
Common Deficiencies Found During Home Inspections
Welcome to our common home inspection deficiencies blog, where we share insights and information about some of the most common issues found during home inspections. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or realtor, understanding these common deficiencies can help you make informed decisions and better protect your investment.
EXPOSED WIRES
There are exposed electrical wires in certain areas of your home. Exposed wires are a significant safety concern because they can cause electrical shocks or short circuits, which may lead to fires. They also pose a risk of accidental contact, especially in high-traffic areas or places accessible to children or pets.
LEAKING SHUT OFF VALVE
Actively leaking water distribution pipes should be repaired by a qualified plumbing contractor to avoid wasting water, damage to home materials, and/or the development of conditions that encourage the growth of microbes such as mold.
MISSING/DAMAGED OUTLET COVER
An electrical receptacle cover plate was missing. This condition left energized electrical components exposed to touch, a shock/electrocution hazard. They also pose a risk of accidental contact, especially in high-traffic areas or places accessible to children.
MISSING SLOT COVER
There are one or more missing breaker slot covers in your main electric panel. This is a safety concern because exposed slots can increase the risk of electrical shock. I recommend having an electrician replace the missing covers to ensure safety.
BROKEN ROOF TILES
The roof had cracked and/or broken clay tiles that should be replaced to help prevent damage from roof leakage.
BREAKER DOUBLE-TAPPED
LEAKING PLUMBING DRAIN
The plumbing drain pipe has active leak. This should be repaired to prevent water damage to surrounding materials. Microbial growth can also occur which can cause respiratory reactions in sensitive individuals.
OBSOLETE SERVICE PANELS
The electrical service panel was a Federal Pacific Stab-lok model. These service panels are reputed to have a significant rate of circuit breaker failure that can result in fire or electric shock hazard. For safety reasons, you should consult with a qualified electrical contractor to discuss the necessity, options, and costs for replacement.
STUCCO CRACKS
“Stucco cracks are common exterior deficiencies that can develop due to natural settling, temperature fluctuations, or improper installation. While small hairline cracks may not pose an immediate threat, larger or deep cracks can allow moisture to penetrate the wall system, leading to water damage, mold growth, and deterioration of underlying materials.
DOUBLE TAPPED MAIN LUGS
Main lugs inside service panel have more than one wire installed. The service panel is not rated for this type of installation. This is a safety hazard due to the extra wiring having no over current protection. I recommend immediate evaluation and repair by a licensed electrician.
STEP CRACKING
The exterior concrete masonry units (blocks) exhibit step cracking at the corners of the structure. This is a general sign of soil movement and should be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion into the wall. I also recommend monitoring the cracking for further movement. If further movement occurs I recommend contacting a licensed contractor for repair.
VEGITATION IN CONTACT WITH ELECTRICAL SERVICE WIRES
The overhead electrical service conductors were in contact with trees. This condition should be corrected to avoid conductor damage. Corrections should be made by qualified personnel only.
LEAKING WATER HEATER
Damp stains on the floor beneath this water heater indicated that this water heater has been leaking recently. An evaluation should be performed by a qualified plumbing contractor to determine options and costs for repair or replacement.
DETERIERATED HVAC DUCTS
Deteriorated ductwork can lead to low air flow and leaking ducts. These leaks allow conditioned air to escape, which not only drives up your energy bills but can also make your home less comfortable. In some cases, leaks can also lead to moisture build-up, which can create an ideal environment for mold growth.
INOPERABLE POOL LIGHT
Main lugs inside service panel have more than one wire installed. The service panel is not rated for this type of installation. This is a safety hazard due to the extra wiring having no over current protection. I recommend immediate evaluation and repair by a licensed electrician.
ROOF LEAK
Discolored roof sheathing was visible in the attic. Testing of these areas with a moisture meter revealed elevated moisture levels indicating recent roof leakage. The source of the leakage should be identified and corrected by a qualified roofing contractor before it causes damage from decay.
GROUNDING ELECTRODE INSTALLED INCORRECTLY
The grounding electrode conductor (GEC) was not installed flush with grade. To help ensure effective service grounding, this condition should be corrected by a qualified electrical contractor.
DAMAGED PLUMBING STACK VENT
On the roof, the lead boot of a plumbing stack vent was damaged and may allow damage from roof leakage. The boot should be replaced by a qualified roofing contractor.
GABLE VENT SCREEN DAMAGE
Gable vents had screen damage that will allow entry of insects, birds, squirrels, and other pests. Damaged screens or vents should be replaced by a qualified contractor.
GUTTERS BENT OR DAMAGED
The gutters were bent or damaged. Damaged gutter sections should be replaced by a qualified contractor to avoid excessively high moisture levels in soil near the foundation that can cause foundation damage related to soil movement.
OPEN JUNCTION BOX
A junction box in the attic contained improper electrical connections. For safety reasons, an evaluation of the electrical system and any necessary work should be performed by a qualified electrical contractor.
MISSING KNOCK-OUT IN SERVICE PANEL
Unused openings in the exterior-mounted electrical service panel may allow insect or rodent entry, or moisture intrusion, any of which can degrade electrical connections. Degraded electrical connections are potential fire hazards. This condition should be corrected by a qualified electrical contractor.
WINDOW SPRINGS DEFICIENCY
Broken window springs, also known as window balance springs, are mechanisms that help windows open and close smoothly. When these springs are damaged or broken, the window may not stay open, may slam shut, or become difficult to operate. This can lead to safety hazards, especially if the window suddenly slams shut, and can cause damage to the window frame or glass.
POOR ROOF REPAIRS
Roofing material had been poorly repaired, increasing the potential for damage from roof leakage. Proper repairs should be made as necessary by a qualified roofing contractor.
GARAGE DOOR INSECURELY MOUNTED
Overhead garage door tracks were insecurely mounted and moved excessively when the door was operated. The tracks should be made secure by a qualified garage door contractor.
WOOD ROT ON SIDING
Wood rot occurs when wood is exposed to moisture for extended periods, causing it to decay and deteriorate. This deficiency is commonly found on exterior elements such as siding, door frames, and house trim, where water infiltration can occur due to poor drainage, improper sealing, or damaged paint.
NO ONE-HOUR FIRE BARRIER
The garage ceiling was not constructed as a one-hour fire separation barrier. Although this may have been considered acceptable when the home was originally constructed, and homes are not required to be updated to comply with newly-enacted building standards, for life-safety reasons, you should consult with a qualified contractor to discuss options and costs for updating home construction to comply with modern fire safety regulations.
DOOR LOCK HARDWARE DAMAGED
The front door was found not to lock or latch properly. This issue affects the door’s security and functionality, as well as the safety of the home. A licensed service technician should be contacted to adjust or repair the door to ensure it locks and latches securely.
DEAD FRONT COVER INCORRECT HARDWARE
At the electrical service panel, screws holding the dead front cover in place were pointed, course-thread screws that can damage conductors, potentially causing electrical arcing (with risk of eye injury and burns), or can energize the metal panel (with risk of electrical shock or electrocution). Proper screws should be installed by a qualified electrical contractor.
OPEN PENETRATIONS IN EXTERIOR WALL
Exterior wall penetrations had gaps that should be sealed with an appropriate sealant to prevent moisture and insect entry.
EXCESSIVE MOISTURE IN ATTIC SPACE
There was signs of microbial growth in the attic space due to elevated moisture. This is due to warm moist air coming into contact with a cooler surface causing condensation. There can be several causes for this condition including poor attic ventilation, appliances that vent into attic space and leaking plumbing. I recommend further evaluation by a licensed contractor.
HVAC CHASE NOT SEALED
The HVAC coolant line chase was not properly sealed. This condition can allow insects and rodents into the attic space. I Recommend sealing with appropriate sealant.
MISSING/DAMAGED WEATHER STRIPPING
At the time of the inspection, weather-stripping at exterior doors was generally damaged or deteriorated. The Inspector recommends replacement/installation of effective weather-stripping components as necessary by a qualified contractor.
OPEN SOFFIT
There are one or more areas where the soffit is open to the exterior. This can allow moisture, rodents and insects to enter the attic space. I recommend repair to these areas by a licensed contractor.
UNSECURED HOSE BIBS
Unsecured hose bibs were observed during the inspection. Plumbing lines should be firmly anchored to a stable surface to prevent vibrations and potential leaks. Without proper support, hose bibs and their connecting pipes are more prone to damage, which can lead to water wastage and structural issues.
BUILT-UP ROOFING MISSING GRAVEL
The roof had areas of thin or missing gravel. Gravel is used to extend the lifespan of the roofing material by protecting it from the damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. The Inspector recommends the addition of gravel to conform to industry standards. All work should be performed by a qualified roofing contractor.
INFORMATIONAL BLOG ONLY
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as specialist professional advice. Rose Home Inspection Services LLC, its employees, and its representatives do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this blog. Use of this information is at your own risk. We recommend consulting with a licensed specialist for any specific concerns or issues related to your home.