Top 10 Questions Every Dallas–Fort Worth Buyer or Seller Asks About Home Inspections

Buying or selling a home in North Texas is an exciting milestone — but the process isn’t complete without a thorough home inspection. In Dallas–Fort Worth, our unique clay soils, frequent hailstorms, and wide range of home ages mean buyers, sellers, and investors have very specific questions when it comes to inspections.

At Semper Fi Home Inspections, we hear these same questions every day from our DFW clients. Here are the top 10 inspection concerns — and why they matter.

1. Is the Foundation Solid?

Foundation issues are one of the biggest worries in DFW. Our expansive clay soils swell when wet and shrink during dry spells, leading to cracks, uneven floors, and doors or windows that don’t close properly. Inspections identify early warning signs so buyers know what’s cosmetic and what could require costly repairs.

2. What About Grading and Drainage?

In North Texas, drainage problems often go hand-in-hand with foundation concerns. If water isn’t flowing away from the home, it can pool around the foundation and accelerate shifting. We check grading, gutters, and downspouts to ensure the property is set up to handle our unpredictable rains.

3. Is the Roof in Good Shape After Hail?

DFW is in the heart of the hail belt. A roof that looks fine from the ground may have storm damage that impacts insurance eligibility. Our inspectors get up close to shingles, flashing, and roof structures so you know if repairs or replacement may be needed.

4. Are the Electrical Panels and Wiring Safe?

Older homes in DFW sometimes have outdated electrical panels, amateur DIY wiring, or overloaded circuits. These aren’t just inconveniences — they’re fire hazards. We check panels, wiring, GFCI outlets, and overall system safety so buyers and sellers understand the risks.

5. What About Plumbing and Slab Leaks?

A common DFW issue is hidden plumbing leaks under slab foundations. These can be expensive to repair if not caught early. We evaluate water pressure, visible plumbing, and warning signs that suggest a slab leak may be present.

6. How Old Are the HVAC Systems?

Summers in North Texas push HVAC systems to their limits. A unit that’s too old or inefficient can mean high energy bills and surprise breakdowns. Our inspection notes the system’s age, functionality, and expected lifespan so buyers can plan ahead.

7. What Issues Are Found in New Suburban Builds?

Fast-growing areas like Frisco, McKinney, and Prosper are full of new construction — but new doesn’t mean perfect. We often find rushed workmanship, missing insulation, or poor grading in brand-new homes. Pre-drywall, final, and warranty inspections protect buyers from hidden surprises.

8. Will This Home Qualify for Insurance?

Insurance companies in DFW are tightening requirements, especially after years of hail and storm claims. Roof condition, HVAC age, and overall system maintenance affect both eligibility and premiums. An inspection helps buyers and sellers understand what may impact coverage.

9. Should Sellers Get a Pre-Listing Inspection?

Yes. Sellers who invest in a pre-listing inspection can fix small issues ahead of time and avoid last-minute negotiations. It also helps market the home with confidence, showing buyers the property has been professionally evaluated.

10. What Should Investors Look for in Inspections?

Landlords and investors focus on long-term ROI. Inspections provide clarity on the lifespan of HVAC units, roofing, and foundation stability — major costs that directly affect rental profitability. Regular maintenance inspections also help protect investment properties year after year.

Why These Questions Matter in DFW

Every home in North Texas tells a story. From historic bungalows in Fort Worth to brand-new builds in Frisco, buyers and sellers share the same concerns: foundation stability, storm resilience, system safety, and long-term costs.

At Semper Fi Home Inspections, our mission is to give you clear, same-day reports with photos and videos so you can make confident decisions — whether you’re buying, selling, or protecting your investment.