When buyers see long home inspection reports, it might seem overwhelming, but not everything listed is a huge problem. It’s essential to know which issues are critical and which ones aren’t.

Don’t Panic Over That Inspection Report! Here’s What It Really Means

A home inspection’s outcome can significantly affect a home sale. If buyers get nervous about all the repair notes, it could jeopardize the deal. Adam Long, who leads HomeTeam Inspection Service with over 200 locations, reminds us that no house is without its faults. Some problems might need immediate attention, while others can wait. Ultimately, every problem in a house can be fixed. The decision about what to address first lies with the buyer, seller, and their agents.

Inspectors look over the home’s structure and major systems like electricity and plumbing. They’ll write up their findings and explain everything to the buyer, ensuring they understand but not scare them. Some findings might need fixing right away, others can be planned for future repairs, or used to negotiate the house price.

Understanding the Big Warnings

Some issues found during a home inspection might seem scary, but they often aren’t as bad as they seem.

Structural or Foundation Concerns:

If a house is settling wrong, it might cause big problems later. Inspectors check for any signs of trouble, like small cracks in the foundation or walls. They might say to just keep an eye on small cracks, but a big crack with a bulge needs immediate expert review. Even issues like doors that won’t close right or uneven floors might hint at foundation problems. Addressing these early can prevent expensive repairs down the line.

• Cost: Fixing foundation issues averages between $2,000 and $8,000, though the price can change based on the extent of the damage

Aluminum Wiring:

Home inspectors might find aluminum wiring in houses built between 1965 and 1973. Nowadays, homes use copper wiring because aluminum can wear out faster and might overheat, raising the risk of fire. Adam Long notes that some homeowners might not even know they have aluminum wiring. It doesn’t guarantee a fire, but the risk is there.

Insurance companies often won’t cover homes with aluminum wiring. Inspectors might suggest chatting with an insurance agent or looking into ways to make the wiring safer, like using special connectors.

• Cost to rewire a house: On average, it’s about $16,000.

Electrical Panels:

Inspectors check the electrical panel where all the home’s wires meet. A frequent issue is when two wires are on one breaker when each should have its own, which can cause the breaker to trip. Fixing this is usually straightforward.

Older electrical panels, like Zinsco and Federal Pacific ones from the 1950s to the 1980s, might be flagged because they could fail and pose fire risks. Not all insurance companies will cover homes with these older panels.

• Cost for new electrical panel: Typically, it’s around $2,400.

Plumbing:

Inspectors look at the plumbing for small or big concerns. Minor issues like a loose hose or a dripping tap are common. These aren’t major alarms but need fixing to prevent larger problems, like mold, later.

Inspectors might point out “Polybutylene Plastic” pipes used from 1978 to 1994, known for leaking more than newer materials. They’ll also check for old cast iron and galvanized pipes, which can rust. These pipes don’t always need immediate replacement, but it’s something to consider, especially in older homes. Today, copper pipes are common because they last longer.

• Cost to replace plumbing pipes: It ranges from $1,500 to $15,000, depending on how big the house is and what kind of pipes are installed.

Floor Joists:

Lots of homes have wooden beams in the attic or wooden supports called floor joists. Inspectors check these for any rotten areas. They’ll also notice if someone has cut into these beams, which might weaken the house’s structure. Even a small cut can cause big problems later, like cracks in the walls or uneven floors.

• Cost for repair: Fixing floor joists can average around $12,500, but it can be as little as $100 or up to $2,000 per beam, depending on the damage.

HVAC Systems:

Inspectors look at heating systems, especially if the house uses natural gas. They check things like the heat exchanger and the flame’s color to make sure everything is working right. A wrong flame color might mean there’s a crack somewhere, which could be dangerous and lead to a broken furnace or even a gas leak.

• Cost for replacement: Replacing an HVAC system could cost between $5,000 and $12,000 on average.

Safety Concerns:

Inspectors also look for anything that could be unsafe, like cracks where you walk or missing railings that could cause someone to trip or fall. They’ll point out if there aren’t enough smoke detectors or any carbon monoxide detectors, which are important for safety.

Drainage Issues
They also check the house’s outside, like the gutters and how water flows away from the house. If water isn’t directed properly, it could lead to water damage or leaks in the future.

• Cost for gutters: Installing new gutters usually costs between $624 and $1,705.

No Need to Worry!

Even if the inspection report has a lot of items listed, it doesn’t mean everything has to be fixed right away. It’s a detailed look at the house to help buyers know what they’re getting into. Some issues might need a specialist to look closer, and others might just be something to keep an eye on. The main thing is, most problems found during an inspection can be fixed, and they don’t have to stop you from buying the house. The inspection helps you understand more about the house you want to buy.

If you’re stepping into the real estate market and need guidance on how these insights can impact your mortgage options, we’re here to assist. Reach out for expert advice on navigating your home buying journey with confidence.