“10 Home Inspection Red Flags:

What They Might Not Be Telling You”

When buying or selling a home, a thorough inspection is a critical step in identifying potential issues and ensuring the property is in good condition. However, not all home inspections are created equal, and occasionally, some inspectors may misrepresent findings or omit important details. Whether intentional or due to negligence, these inaccuracies can lead to costly surprises down the line. Understanding common areas where dishonesty or oversights occur can help clients make informed decisions, protect their investment, and hold inspectors accountable.

While most home inspectors are professionals who adhere to high ethical standards, there are rare instances where some might omit or misrepresent information.

Here are 10 things unscrupulous home inspectors might misrepresent or lie about:

1/ Extent of Structural Damage

Downplaying or overstating issues like foundation cracks, roof integrity, or wall stability to avoid confrontation or influence the sale.

Pro Tip #1- Cracking at top corners of windows and doors interior and exterior is a sign of structural failure and differential settlement, if left unchecked could result in $1000’s to repair.

Pro Tip #2- Any open web roof truss that has cut or missing truss components if left unchecked could lead to $1000’s in engineering fees.

2/ Roof Condition

Failing to inspect hard-to-reach areas and assuming the roof is in good condition, or claiming it needs replacement when it doesn’t.

Pro Tip- There are 4 types of roof inspections;

  1. On roofing material- This can damage roofing materials.
  2. On ladder at eave- Suitable for most situations and much safer.
  3. Ground level visual- Suitable for most situations if accompanied by a digital recording device, also the safest method.
  4. Drone- Additional fees may be involved if a third party is required.

Be sure to inquire which method is being used as different aged roofing materials require different methods.

3/ Mold or Water Damage

Ignoring or failing to report signs of mold or water intrusion, either to expedite the inspection or to avoid recommending costly repairs.

Pro Tip #1- Identifying the source of moisture feeding mold is critically important, if left unchecked could lead to many adverse health affects and costly repairs.

Pro Tip #2- We never advise contacting a mold remediation contractor, they are fearmongers and will take advantage.

4/ HVAC Systems

Not properly testing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, or providing false information about their efficiency or remaining lifespan.

Pro Tip #1- Average lifespan for a well maintained HVAC system is 20 years in the South not 7-10 as we are told. Change filters regularly and don’t ever run the system with windows and doors open.

Pro Tip #2- Before you spend any money repairing or replacing any HVAC component, call us first for free advice, HVAC technicians are similar to automotive mechanics, very technical expertise which can be easily upsold.

5/ Electrical Issues

Omitting or downplaying outdated wiring, code violations, or potential fire hazards.

Pro Tip #1- Electrical safety issues are extremely uncommon unless built before 1969.

Pro Tip #2- Federal Pacific breaker panels installed from 1950’s to 1980’s should be removed and replaced, however, don’t be fearmongered into thinking this is a necessity if there is no obvious overloading or scorching inside breaker panel.

6/ Plumbing Problems

Failing to report leaks, corroded pipes, or drainage issues, often because they didn’t thoroughly inspect areas like crawl spaces.

Pro Tip #1- Pre 2000’s expectation is copper piping which should be insulated.

Pro Tip #2- Post 2000’s expectation is pex piping which does not require insulation but is recommended.

7/ Pest Infestation

Ignoring evidence of termites, rodents, or other pests, especially in attics or basements.

8/ Age of Major Systems

Misrepresenting the age of a home’s components like the roof, furnace, or water heater to make the property seem more appealing.

Pro Tip #1- A new roof replacement is great, but if it is double layered or installed over existing roofing materials it was NOT done by a professional.

Pro Tip #1- Almost all appliances age can be determined by the Serial # and likely the first 4 characters.

9/ Inaccessible Areas

Claiming that inaccessible areas (e.g., crawl spaces, attics) are fine without actually inspecting them.

Pro Tip #1- Any access point over 18″ x 18″ is considered accessible.

10/ Level of Expertise

Overstating their qualifications or expertise in specific areas like structural engineering or specialized systems to appear more credible.

Pro Tip #1- SC Inspectors are required to obtain 12 hours of CE training annually. Always check references, reviews and state licensing bureaus.

Pro Tip #2- The passing rate for the Home Inspector SC Licensing exam is below 40% which means a lot of inspectors go through the open-book contractor exam and by default are allowed to practice home inspections without the required experience.

Bonus/ Asbestos or Lead Paint

Ignoring signs of older materials that may contain asbestos or lead paint, especially in homes built before the 1980’s.

Pro Tip #1- Unchecked lead based paint can result in a complete remodel which costs between $30,000 & $50,000.

Pro Tip #2- Like asbestos, lead based paint is most dangerous when it is disturbed or fibrous, if left undisturbed it is virtually harmless.

DISCLAIMER- IT IS ILLEGAL FOR A LICENSED HOME INSPECTOR TO PERFORM REPAIR SERVICES ON A PROPERTY WITHIN THE FIRST 12 MONTHS POST INSPECTION.

While most home inspectors operate with integrity and professionalism, occasional misrepresentations or oversights can significantly impact buyers and sellers. Whether due to inexperience, negligence, or unethical practices, these issues underscore the importance of hiring a qualified, trustworthy inspector and actively participating in the inspection process. By verifying credentials, asking detailed questions, and reviewing reports carefully, clients can mitigate risks and make informed decisions about one of the most significant investments of their lives. Transparency and accountability in the industry are vital for maintaining trust and ensuring a seamless real estate transaction.
0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *