When buying a home, the home inspection can be one of the most stress-inducing parts of the process. Will the inspection reveal major foundation flaws? What about a termite infestation? While some home inspection red flags should be dealt with before finalizing the sale and some minor fixes will be the responsiblity of the seller, here are 12 common issues you can overlook for now.
12 Home Inspection Red Flags You Can Actually Overlook (For Now)
Updated on Feb. 10, 2023
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Home buyers, breathe easy
When buying a home, the home inspection can be one of the most stress-inducing parts of the process. Will the inspection reveal major foundation flaws? What about a termite infestation? While some home inspection red flags should be dealt with before finalizing the sale and some minor fixes will be the responsibility of the seller, here are 11 common issues you can overlook for now.
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Failed Window Seals
There’s a good chance at least one window in a home has a failed seal. While a failed seal will result in fogged glass and condensation, this is a problem that you can fix down the road. Here’s how to avoid and remove window condensation.
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Basement Floor Cracks
If the basement is unfinished, don’t let a few cracks in the basement floor deter you from buying the house. Cracks in concrete floors are natural and not considered a structural problem.
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Faulty Light Switches
If your inspector flips a light switch to find it doesn’t work, this is a minor electrical issue that you can fix later on. While major electrical problems are cause for concern, one faulty light switch is usually not a big deal. Wire a switch and outlet the safe and easy way with these tips.
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External Building Flaws
If you live in a competitive buyers’ market, think twice before making a big deal about outdoor shed or garage issues. If the roof on the garage is about to cave in, that’s one thing, but making a big deal about an old shed door is another. Yes, you can build a shed on the cheap!
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Some Water Damage
If a home inspection turns up evidence of minor water damage, this shouldn’t be considered a major red flag. Major water damage is something sellers should list on their disclosure forms and if water damage is an ongoing issue, then you can bring it up during negotiation. Try these 10 tips for dealing with water damage, mold and mildew.
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Inadequate Insulation
Inadequate insulation isn’t always a red flag. While having proper insulation will help keep heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer, insulation is an issue you can remedy later. These are the 25 things you need to know about insulation.
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Minor Wall Cracks
When you get your home inspection report and see issues such cracks on a wall, these are usually considered minor problems. While they should be repaired, these issues are rarely a safety hazard requiring immediate attention. These 100 super scary home inspection photos will give you nightmares.
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Leaking Faucets
While major leaks should be addressed before finalizing a home sale, a leaking faucet or a minor crack in a laundry tub isn’t a red flag. These are usually easy DIY fixes you can make later. Here’s the right way to fix a leaky faucet.
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Some Roof Issues
Roof problems can make or break a sale. While some roof issues should be remedied immediately, there are some minor roof issues that can be overlooked for now. Clogged gutters and a loose shingle or two are jobs you can tackle after the sale. Here are seven roof problems and what to do about them.
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Miscellaneous Plumbing Problems
Many plumbing issues such as a noisy toilet or slow draining tub can be remedied after the home purchase. However, if a home inspection turns up major plumbing issues and system replacement is needed, that is a red flag. Here are the top 10 plumbing fixes you can do yourself.
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An Old Water Heater
Home inspectors report seeing a lot of old water heaters while inspecting homes. This shouldn’t be a red flag as water heaters are relatively inexpensive compared to other major household mechanicals and can often be replaced in just a couple hours. Don’t lose a house you love over an old water heater. Before replacing a hot water heater, check out this inexpensive DIY repair tip.
