20 Common Things That Fail a Home Inspection Plus Steps to Take

Home inspections play a key role in any home purchase because they reveal issues that may affect safety, cost, and long-term upkeep. Buyers and sellers rely on these findings to understand the true condition of the property and to plan for repairs or updates. A clear picture of potential problems helps prevent unexpected expenses during the transaction.

Knowing the things that often fail a home inspection makes the process easier to navigate. Homeowners who understand these common trouble spots can prepare their property, reduce surprises, and present a stronger case when reviewing coverage options through GEICO Insurance Agency.

This awareness supports smoother negotiations and more confident decisions during the sale. Many of the most common things that fail a home inspection relate to hidden damage or aging systems that are easy to overlook during a walkthrough.

Key Takeaways

• Foundation cracks, poor drainage, or structural shifts are the top reasons homes fail inspection.
• Roof damage, leaks, or failing seals often lead to costly moisture problems.
• Plumbing leaks, low or high water pressure, and old water heaters frequently trigger inspection flags.
• Outdated wiring, overloaded panels, and old HVAC systems are major electrical safety concerns.
• Health and safety hazards like radon, asbestos, or hidden mold can halt sales and require remediation.
• Termite or pest infestations are common reasons for inspection and loan delays.
• Missing GFCI outlets, anti-tip brackets, or other code violations often fail basic safety checks.
• Inspection results can impact mortgage approval and homeowners insurance eligibility.
• Buyers and sellers can negotiate repairs, obtain clearance letters, or walk away if risks are too significant.

What a Home Inspection Covers and Why Failures Matter

A home inspection is a non-invasive, top-to-bottom visual review of the structure, major systems, and safety features. Inspectors look at the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical components, walls, and mechanical systems to spot issues that may need attention. The goal is to give buyers and sellers a clear look at the home’s condition.

Inspection reports highlight safety concerns, code violations, or potential repair costs. These findings can influence negotiations, shape the final sale price, and affect mortgage approval. Lenders often want certain problems resolved before closing. Understanding the things that fail a home inspection helps buyers and sellers prepare for issues that could influence the sale.

The results may also influence homeowners insurance obtained through GEICO Insurance Agency because insurers review risk factors such as roof age, plumbing condition, and wiring safety. Strong inspection results help show that the home has been maintained and may support smoother policy decisions.

Structural and Foundation Issues That Often Fail Inspections

Structural concerns are among the most serious findings during a home inspection because they can affect safety and long-term stability. Inspectors look for signs of movement, moisture problems, or weakened support structures.

Early detection helps homeowners understand what may need repair before a sale or insurance review. Structural concerns are among the most significant things that fail a home inspection because they affect safety and long-term stability.

1. Foundation Cracks, Settlement, and Uneven Floors

Large cracks, sloping floors, or windows and doors that stick can show that the foundation has shifted. These issues may point to water intrusion or unstable soil conditions, and inspectors often suggest a structural evaluation to confirm the cause.

2. Indicators of Structural Instability

Sagging beams, bowed walls, cracked ceilings, or gaps between floors and walls can signal that the home’s framework needs attention. Inspectors may recommend an engineer’s review before a loan or insurance policy moves forward.

3. Improper Grading, Drainage Problems, and Soil Movement

Water that collects near the home can place pressure on the foundation. Poor grading, pooling water, or soil that expands can increase this strain. Adjusting the slope around the house or adding drainage solutions helps prevent future movement and moisture problems.

4. Deteriorated Beams, Support Posts, and Structural Framing

Rot, pest activity, or unapproved structural changes can weaken load-bearing elements. Repairing these components may require reinforcement or professional reconstruction to restore stability and meet safety expectations.

Roofing and Exterior Wall Inspection Failures

The roof and exterior walls protect the home from rain, wind, and temperature changes. When these areas show damage or wear, inspectors often list them as concerns because they can lead to bigger problems inside the house. Issues here may also influence repair plans or insurance decisions.

5. Old or Worn Roofing Materials, Leaks, and Missing Shingles

Shingles that curl, crack, or shed granules can signal that the roof is nearing the end of its life. Damaged flashing or visible leaks are common reasons homes fail inspection. Roof age matters because many asphalt roofs reach their limit after about twenty years.

6. Gutters, Downspouts, and Drainage

Gutters that are clogged, loose, or incorrectly pitched allow water to pool near the foundation. This can increase the chance of moisture problems indoors. Inspectors often look at downspout extensions, splash blocks, and the overall slope to confirm that runoff is moving away from the home.

7. Compromised Seals on Doors and Windows

Worn or broken seals around windows and doors can let in drafts or moisture. Over time, this can create rot, mold, or rising energy costs. Fogging between double-pane windows or deteriorated frames are common issues inspectors highlight during their review.

Plumbing and Water System Problems

Plumbing issues are some of the most common reasons homes fail an inspection because they can lead to moisture damage, safety concerns, or costly repairs. Inspectors look for leaks, pressure problems, and the condition of pipes or water heaters to understand how well the system has been maintained.

8. Leaky Or Damaged Pipes And Fixtures

Water stains under sinks, corroded joints, or worn toilet seals often lead to inspection notes. Older plumbing materials, including galvanized and polybutylene pipes, are known for failure over time. These issues can create odors, mold, or long-term structural damage if left untreated.

9. Water Pressure Problems

Water pressure that is too high can strain pipes and fittings, while low pressure may point to sediment buildup or hidden leaks. Inspectors often check pressure levels to identify signs of wear in the plumbing system.

10. Malfunctioning Water Heaters

Water heaters that are past their lifespan or unable to maintain proper temperature are common inspection concerns. Signs of rust, leaks, or poor efficiency may require repair or replacement. These problems can also affect insurance considerations if they lead to repeated water damage or safety issues.

Electrical and HVAC System Problems

Electrical and HVAC systems play a major role in home safety and comfort. Inspectors review these areas to check for hazards, outdated components, and signs that equipment may soon need repair or replacement. Problems here often lead to inspection concerns because they affect daily living and long-term upkeep. Outdated wiring and aging HVAC units are also regular things that fail a home inspection due to the safety risks they can create.

11. Outdated Or Faulty Wiring

Older wiring types, such as knob-and-tube or aluminum, can raise safety concerns. Reversed polarity, exposed splices, and non-grounded outlets are also common findings. Overloaded circuits may suggest that the electrical system needs updates to meet current standards.

12. Mismatched or Improperly Installed Equipment

Breakers that do not match the electrical panel, loose connections, and unpermitted DIY electrical work often trigger inspection failures. Inspectors look for proper grounding and other basic code requirements to make sure the system operates safely.

13. Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, and Life-Safety Devices

Furnaces or air conditioners that are older than their expected lifespan are often flagged for replacement. Inspectors also check for working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and review ventilation in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Missing safety devices or poor ventilation can violate local codes and need to be corrected before closing.

Health and Safety Hazards That Cause Home Inspection Fails

Inspectors check for environmental and safety risks that could affect the home’s livability or require professional correction. These issues often appear on inspection reports because they relate directly to air quality, long-term health, and basic safety standards.

14. Radon Gas and Radon Testing

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through cracks or gaps in the foundation. Elevated levels are a concern because the gas can build up indoors without a noticeable smell or sign. Testing identifies the concentration in the home, and mitigation systems can usually bring readings down to safer levels.

15. Asbestos in Older Homes

Some homes built before 1980 may contain asbestos within insulation, flooring, or textured ceiling materials. Inspectors look for signs that suggest possible asbestos, and professional testing is usually recommended. If removal is needed, licensed contractors must follow strict safety rules when handling it.

16. Hidden Mold and Moisture Damage

Mold can develop behind walls, around windows, or in basements where leaks or humidity are present. It often appears as discoloration or a musty smell. Long-term moisture problems may require professional cleanup and repairs. Mold findings can also influence insurance considerations if repeated water damage has occurred.

Pest and Wood-Destroying Organism Inspection Failures

Pests and wood-destroying insects can cause significant damage to a home’s structure. Inspectors check for signs of activity or weakened wood because these issues can affect safety, repair costs, and loan requirements.

17. Termites, Carpenter Ants, and Wood-Boring Beetles

Termites and similar insects can hollow out wood and weaken beams, joists, or framing. Inspectors look for small tunnels, sawdust-like debris, or wood that sounds hollow when tapped. Many lenders request a termite or wood-destroying organism report before they approve a mortgage.

18. Visible and Hidden Pest Infestations

Signs of rodents or other pests include droppings, shredded insulation, or damaged wiring. These problems must be resolved before the sale can continue. Sellers may need to provide proof of pest control treatment or certification that the issue has been corrected.

Common Safety and Code Violations Leading to Inspection Fails

Home inspectors review basic safety features and code requirements that help protect residents from accidents or electrical hazards. Many issues in this category are simple to fix but still appear on inspection reports because they affect everyday safety.

19. Missing Anti-Tip Brackets on Ranges And Ovens

Free-standing ranges need an anti-tip bracket to keep the appliance stable. Without it, the unit can tilt if weight is placed on the open door. Inspectors regularly check for this safety device because it is easy to install and plays an important role in accident prevention.

20. Non-Compliance with Modern Building Codes

Homes may lack code-required features such as GFCI outlets near sinks, proper handrails on stairs, or working carbon monoxide alarms. These items are common reasons for inspection failures. They are usually inexpensive to correct and help bring the home in line with current safety expectations.

The Role of Lenders and Insurance Companies in Inspection Results

Inspection results influence more than the sale itself. Lenders and insurers review the condition of the home to understand potential risks, future repair needs, and overall safety. Serious issues may lead to extra steps before a loan closes or before a homeowners policy found through GEICO Insurance Agency can be finalized.

Inspection Findings and Mortgage Approval

Major problems such as foundation movement, roof deterioration, or unsafe wiring can slow the loan process. Lenders want these concerns resolved before approval because they affect the home’s long-term stability. FHA, VA, and other government-backed loans often have additional requirements that must be met before closing can move forward.

Inspection Issues and Homeowners Insurance

Insurers review details that may signal ongoing risk, including signs of water damage, aging roofs, or electrical hazards. If these issues are not corrected, coverage found through GEICO Insurance Agency may be adjusted or delayed until repairs are completed. Addressing concerns early helps create a clearer path to securing the policy you need.

Steps to Take When an Inspection Reveals Failures

Inspection findings can feel overwhelming, but there are clear ways to move forward. Buyers and sellers can work together to resolve issues, confirm repairs, and decide whether the home still meets their needs. The right approach depends on the severity of the problems and the goals of each party.

Negotiating Repairs and Credits

Inspection reports often lead to repair discussions. Buyers can ask the seller to fix certain items, reduce the purchase price, or provide a credit at closing to cover future work. Some sellers choose to complete a pre-inspection before listing the home to reduce surprises during negotiations.

Reinspection’s and Clearance Letters

Once repairs are completed, a reinspection helps confirm that the issues have been corrected. Certain problems, such as pest activity or mold, may require a clearance letter from a licensed professional. These documents show that the home now meets basic safety and condition standards.

Deciding When to Walk Away

Not every home is the right fit after an inspection. If the repair costs exceed your budget or the safety concerns are too significant, walking away can be a reasonable choice. Inspection contingency clauses protect buyers in these situations and help prevent the loss of a deposit.

Protect Your Home from Covered Losses with Homeowners Insurance Through GEICO Insurance Agency

Staying aware of common inspection issues helps protect your home’s value and reduces the chance of unexpected repairs. Understanding how major systems age, along with the signs inspectors look for, makes it easier to plan maintenance and correct problems early. Routine care also helps limit claims tied to preventable damage, since well-kept roofs, wiring, and plumbing lower the likelihood of costly incidents.

Homeowners insurance found through GEICO Insurance Agency can help you find policies that offer protection against many types of covered losses. Reviewing your coverage or getting a quote is a simple way to confirm that your home has the support it needs. Proactive inspection awareness leads to smarter ownership and stronger long-term protection. Get a free quote today!