The 15 Major Issues Found In Home Inspections

HomeScore editorial estimates based on published inspection-industry sources and inspector input; not a measured sample of HomeScore reports.

How This List Was Built

HomeScore editorial estimates based on published inspection-industry sources and inspector input; not a measured sample of HomeScore reports. Each row below uses that dataset's estimated share of inspections, 0–100 severity, and typical remediation range. Measurement technique: editorial estimate.

Estimated findings, items 1–5

1. Roof at or past 80% of expected lifespan (41% estimated share): Severity 62/100. Typical remediation $9,000–$21,000. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
2. HVAC system 15+ years old (38% estimated share): Severity 55/100. Typical remediation $8,500–$18,000. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
3. Water heater 10+ years old (36% estimated share): Severity 35/100. Typical remediation $1,600–$3,200. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
4. Improper grading / negative slope at foundation (31% estimated share): Severity 58/100. Typical remediation $800–$6,500. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
5. GFCI/AFCI protection missing in required locations (29% estimated share): Severity 28/100. Typical remediation $300–$1,200. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.

Estimated findings, items 6–10

6. Missing or damaged attic insulation (27% estimated share): Severity 22/100. Typical remediation $1,500–$4,500. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
7. Window seal failure (fogged double-pane) (24% estimated share): Severity 18/100. Typical remediation $250–$700. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
8. Active water intrusion in basement / crawl space (22% estimated share): Severity 72/100. Typical remediation $2,500–$14,000. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
9. Chimney crown / flashing deterioration (19% estimated share): Severity 38/100. Typical remediation $600–$3,500. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
10. Garage GFCI / ignition source clearance issue (16% estimated share): Severity 30/100. Typical remediation $150–$800. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.

Estimated findings, items 11–15

11. Deck ledger board / flashing concern (14% estimated share): Severity 60/100. Typical remediation $350–$2,200. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
12. Sewer line clay or cast iron, 60+ years old (11% estimated share): Severity 68/100. Typical remediation $4,500–$18,000. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
13. Federal Pacific Stab-Lok or Zinsco panel detected (6% estimated share): Severity 92/100. Typical remediation $2,400–$4,800. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
14. Knob-and-tube or aluminum branch wiring (4% estimated share): Severity 78/100. Typical remediation $4,500–$18,000. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.
15. Polybutylene (PB) supply piping (3% estimated share): Severity 85/100. Typical remediation $4,500–$12,000. Editorial estimate, not a measured sample.

What a major finding means for a purchase

A listed finding does not by itself decide the purchase. Compare the typical remediation range with a written local quote, the contract deadline, and the cash you can hold after closing.

Cost range

Range across all 15 major findings: $1,500–$100,000