A thorough home inspection provides vital insight into the structural and systems health of a home, helping buyers and sellers alike.

Not every inspection uncovers serious problems, but it’s typical to find several areas needing repair or maintenance.

Familiarity with common inspection findings allows both parties to plan ahead, Real estate agent Peterborough budget appropriately, and sidestep unexpected financial burdens.

One of the most frequently reported issues is related to the roof.

Worn, cracked, or lifted shingles, inadequate flashing near roof penetrations, and ceiling discoloration are red flags for moisture intrusion.

Addressing this requires a professional assessment to determine whether a simple repair or a full replacement is needed.

Keeping gutters clean, removing leaves and branches, and inspecting after storms helps preserve roof integrity.

Another common finding involves the electrical system.

Knob and tube systems, aluminum feeders, overloaded panels, or missing GFCIs in damp locations create dangerous conditions.

Only a certified professional should diagnose and correct electrical hazards.

Modernizing service panels, correcting improper splices, and installing tamper-resistant outlets ensures compliance and enhances household safety.

Plumbing problems are also frequently uncovered during inspections.

Leaky faucets, corroded pipes, low water pressure, or outdated materials like galvanized steel can lead to inefficiency and potential water damage.

Locating and repairing hidden leaks, then upgrading to flexible PEX or durable copper lines, enhances reliability.

Inspecting the tank for corrosion, draining sediment annually, and checking the anode rod can extend its life.

Structural concerns related to the foundation are often the most alarming inspection results.

Horizontal cracks, stair-step patterns in brick, sloping floors, and misaligned frames suggest possible foundation stress.

Thin, vertical cracks may be cosmetic, but cracks wider than 1.

Soil grading and drainage around the home play a major role in foundation health, so ensuring water flows away from the structure is key to prevention.

HVAC systems often reveal signs of wear, such as inefficient operation, unusual noises, or outdated units that no longer meet current energy standards.

Dirty filters, closed registers, and leaky ducts force the system to work harder and waste energy.

Regular servicing, cleaning ducts, and replacing filters are simple maintenance tasks that can significantly improve performance.

Replacing an old system with an ENERGY STAR-rated model can cut heating and cooling costs by 20–40%.

Moisture and mold are recurring problems, particularly in basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces.

Persistent dampness, condensation on windows, or musty odors often precede visible mold.

Improving ventilation with exhaust fans, using dehumidifiers, sealing gaps, and fixing leaks are all effective ways to control moisture.

Fixing the source—whether it’s a leak, condensation, or poor insulation—is the only way to stop mold from coming back.

Inadequate thermal barriers and unsealed penetrations are common energy drains.

Gaps around windows, doors, and attic penetrations allow conditioned air to escape, increasing energy costs.

Adding or upgrading insulation in the attic, walls, and floors, along with weatherstripping and caulking, can dramatically improve energy efficiency and comfort throughout the home.

Addressing these common findings does not always require major renovations.

Regular checkups, small fixes, and strategic improvements often prevent bigger problems.

Don’t ignore red flags—consult licensed pros and choose solutions that protect your investment.

Smart responses to inspection findings lead to lasting peace of mind and increased property value.