Top 7 Things Your Inspector Should Catch (But Often Doesn't)

A great home inspection goes beyond the checklist. Here are seven issues that matter for your safety and wallet — and that some inspectors miss or downplay.

1. Roof and flashing details

Missing or failing flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is a common source of leaks. We document condition and recommend repairs before you close.

2. Electrical panel and capacity

Older panels, double-tapped breakers, and undersized service can create fire or safety risks. We note what’s safe today and what should be upgraded.

Every home is different — and so is every report we write.

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3. Plumbing and water pressure

We run fixtures and check for leaks, corrosion, and adequate flow. Poor pressure or old materials often point to bigger issues down the line.

4. Grading, gutters and basement moisture

Most wet basements start outside: soil sloping toward the house, downspouts dumping at the foundation, clogged gutters. We think like a drop of water — tracing where it lands and where it goes — and check the basement for staining, efflorescence and past repairs that tell the rest of the story.

5. Attic ventilation and insulation

Blocked soffit vents, bath fans venting into the attic, and thin or disturbed insulation cause condensation, mold on the roof sheathing, and high energy bills. It is easy to skip the attic when access is awkward. We go up.

6. Heating and cooling age and condition

A system that turns on is not the same as a system in good shape. We note the age of the furnace, heat pump or boiler, check how it runs, and look for rust, poor venting and neglected filters — so you can budget for a replacement instead of being surprised by one.

7. Deck attachment and railings

Decks fail where they meet the house. Missing flashing, nailed-only ledger boards, loose railings and undersized stairs are common, and they are safety issues, not cosmetic ones. We check how the deck is attached and whether the railings will actually hold.

What to do next

Use your report to negotiate repairs, plan maintenance, or walk away with confidence. We’re here to answer questions before and after the inspection.