10 Common Home Inspection Findings in Pennsylvania: What Every Homeowner Should Know
Buying and/or selling a home can be exciting, bittersweet, and daunting. There’s a lot to think about and attend to, but one thing you can’t skip is a home inspection.
Home inspections are a crucial part of homeownership, as they help solidify your peace of mind about a property or uncover issues that can affect the buying or selling processes.
Understanding common home inspection findings can save Pennsylvania homeowners thousands in repairs and ensure their family’s safety. Learn about the top 10 issues inspectors frequently discover and how to address them effectively.
Top 10 Home Inspection Issues
Every home tells a story, and in Pennsylvania, home inspectors are often the first to read between the lines. From historic homes in Philadelphia to newer constructions in Pittsburgh, certain issues consistently appear during home inspections. Let’s explore the top 10 findings and what they mean for homeowners.
1. Roof Concerns
The first line of defense against Pennsylvania’s varied weather faces numerous challenges:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Improper flashing around chimneys and vents
- Sagging roof sections
- Evidence of past leaks
- Ice dam damage in winter
- Clogged or damaged gutters and downspouts
2. Moisture Problems
Water intrusion remains one of the most destructive forces affecting homes:
- Leaking basement
- Damp crawl space
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Poor drainage around the foundation
- Inadequate grading
- Failed waterproofing systems
3. Mold Issues
Where moisture exists, mold often follows:
- Visible mold in basements and bathrooms
- Musty odors
- Discoloration on walls or ceilings
- Growth behind wallpaper or under carpeting
- Air quality concerns
- Health implications for residents
4. Plumbing Problems
Common plumbing issues include:
- Leaking fixtures and pipes
- Outdated materials (galvanized pipes)
- Poor water pressure
- Improper drainage slopes
- Sewer line complications
- Water heater deficiencies
5. Electrical Issues
Modern life demands more power than ever. Severe hazards can result from the following:
- Outdated wiring
- Overloaded circuits
- Amateur modifications
- Missing GFCI protection
- Federal Pacific panels
- Insufficient outlets
6. Foundation Problems
The foundation’s integrity affects everything above it. Look for these problem signs:
- Vertical and horizontal cracks in foundation walls
- Bowing walls
- Settlement issues
- Water seepage
- Uneven floors
- Structural concerns
7. Door and Window Issues
Often overlooked but crucial for energy efficiency:
- Failed seals in double-pane windows
- Sticking, misaligned doors or windows
- Drafts and air leaks
- Rotting frames
- Missing weatherstripping
- Poor installation
8. High Radon Levels
A serious concern in Pennsylvania:
- Levels above EPA’s 4 pCi/L action level
- Higher basement and crawl space concentrations
- Need for professional testing
- Health risks
- Mitigation requirements
- Testing variations by season
9. HVAC Issues
Comfort and efficiency depend on proper HVAC function:
- Aging systems
- Poor maintenance
- Inadequate heating/cooling
- Ductwork problems
- Carbon monoxide concerns
- Efficiency losses
10. Poor Insulation
Energy efficiency starts with proper insulation:
- Inadequate attic insulation
- Missing wall insulation
- Air leaks around penetrations
- Failing crawl space insulation
- Moisture buildup
- Rising energy costs
Home Inspections: How Baker’s Waterproofing Can Help
Opting for a home inspection from engineers or certified inspectors may come with a price tag of a few hundred dollars. These professionals assess your entire home and offer suggestions for repairs. While they may suggest repair companies, they will not be carrying out the repairs on your home.
In contrast, companies specializing in foundation repair and moisture management, such as Baker’s Waterproofing, will take on the repair work directly. We provide comprehensive inspections at no cost to identify the root causes of damage and create a customized repair strategy.
Our Trusted Solutions
Everything we install is tailored to meet your home’s unique challenges and repair needs. Along with creating a safer and healthier home, they help enhance your home’s value.
These solutions include basement drainage and sump pumps, crawl space encapsulation, wall repair, foundation stabilization, and concrete lifting.
While we do not address radon in Pennsylvania, our services such as encapsulation directly help reduce the amount of radon detected in homes.
Contact Baker’s Waterproofing For Your Home Inspection Needs
Home inspections are crucial to ensure the safety of your living environment and loved ones. Baker’s Waterproofing is committed to providing top-quality repair and protection as your trusted partner.
Our team understands the unique challenges homeowners face throughout Pennsylvania, and we are dedicated to helping you create a secure and dependable living space. Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a free inspection and receive a no-obligation repair estimate. You can count on us for thorough evaluations, excellent customer care, and lasting repair solutions.
Home Inspection FAQs
Home inspections generally cost a few hundred dollars, depending on the home’s size and location. Additional specialized tests for radon or mold may incur extra costs.
Home inspections don’t result in pass/fail grades. They provide detailed information about the home’s condition and identify needed repairs or maintenance.
Even if you’re not selling, consider a home inspection every 3 to 5 years to catch problems early and maintain your home’s value.
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Holly Richards-Purpura
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