Questions to Ask About Specific Problems During Your Home Inspection

What problems should raise flags during a home inspection?

Part 3 in our series of home inspection questions

Part 1: Questions to Ask BEFORE Your Home Inspection

Part 2: Questions to Ask DURING Your Home Inspection

There are a number of issues that can be found during a home inspection that should raise a red flag.  But these issues do not always mean that you need to walk away from what is otherwise your dream home. To help you understand the situation, you’ll want to ask questions, especially about these things:

Asbestos

It’s common for old pipes to be wrapped with asbestos, and there are some other areas where older homes may find it more prevalent.  It’s important to ask questions, such as:

• Does the asbestos need to be removed immediately?
• Is the asbestos a problem if I leave it untouched?

Asbestos may require remediation at some point (especially if you need to remodel), but is not always an immediate issue if it will otherwise be undisturbed.  You can use this as a negotiation point by asking the sellers to reduce the home price by the estimated cost of remediation.

Mold

The home inspection report should note if the home inspector sees any spots of mold on ceilings, in closets, or around beams in the attic.  If any is found, ask the home inspector if remediation is required.  Sometimes, instead of remediation, it can be surface cleaned and have a vent installed.  More serious issues may require air quality testing and full remediation.

Oil Tanks

Residential underground or above-ground, oil tanks are not as prevalent in Texas as they are in some areas of the Northeast, but when they are present, or have been present, they can still be an issue.

A bigger issue is when they are hidden.  In Texas, tanks under a certain size, or used for heating oil (most common residential use) were not included in the reporting requirements that were enacted in 1987, so there may not be record of a tank on the property.

Ask the home inspector if there is evidence of a tank that has been removed (or one still present).  Even after removal, you will need to verify that soil has not been contaminated.  Tanks that have leaked into the soil can cost into six figures for cleanup.

HVAC System

A good home inspector will point out the furnace maintenance sticker – a lot of service calls in a short amount of time could be a bad sign.  A system that is old and greasy can also be a red flag.  The original purchase date should also be shown on the sticker and may give you an idea of how long of a usable life until you may need to replace the system.

• Furnaces last about 15 years.
• Hot water heaters last 8 to 12 years.
• Air conditioning units last 5 to 7 years.

With DFW’s scorching summers, a reliable HVAC system is non-negotiable. Inspectors should ensure the system is functioning well and the home is properly insulated to handle extreme heat.

• Is the HVAC system in good condition and equipped to handle DFW’s extreme heat during summer months?
• Does the insulation in the attic meet energy efficiency standards for this Texas climate?

Electrical Systems

Electrical systems in older DFW homes may include outdated components, like aluminum wiring, which can pose fire hazards. Ensuring the breaker panels and wiring are up to code is essential for safety and insurance compliance.

• Does this home have aluminum wiring or any other outdated electrical components common in older DFW homes?
• Are the breaker panels up to code, and are there any safety concerns with the wiring?

Plumbing

Slab foundations in DFW homes make it harder to detect hidden plumbing issues, and hard water can cause corrosion over time. Addressing these concerns early can prevent costly water damage.

• Can you check for signs of slab leaks, which are common in homes with slab foundations?
• Are there any signs of corrosion or damage to plumbing systems that may have been affected by DFW’s hard water?

Roofing

DFW experiences frequent hailstorms and high winds, which can lead to significant roof damage. An inspection can reveal whether the roof is in good condition and meets storm-resistance standards for insurance.

• Do you see any evidence of hail or wind damage, which is common in this area due to severe storms?
• What is the current condition of the roof, and does it meet insurance requirements for storm-resistance?

Foundation

The region’s clay soil expands and contracts with changes in moisture, leading to foundation issues over time. Proper water drainage is critical to minimizing movement and protecting the foundation.

• Are there any cracks or signs of movement that could indicate foundation issues caused by DFW’s expansive clay soil?
• How is the water drainage around the home, and could poor drainage impact the foundation’s stability?

Don’t miss our next article on home inspection concerns for specific types of properties