Buying a home is no small task – after all, it’s likely going to be the biggest financial decision you will ever make. Before signing on the dotted line, it’s important to become familiar with potential issues that may come up and those of which an inspector can help uncover. Put your best foot forward in owning a home by getting acquainted with some of the most shocking home inspection finds that were almost missed! From little issues like cracks and drafts to bigger concerns such as pests and water damage, join us as we review some common (and not so common) items that should never be overlooked prior to actually moving into your first Utah home.

1.  Cracks in the foundation

One of the most shocking home inspection items that were almost missed are cracks in the foundation. These cracks can be caused by a number of things, including settling of the house, poor construction, or even earthquakes. If left unrepaired, these cracks can lead to serious structural problems with the house.

Utah homes in particular are susceptible to foundation cracks, which can potentially cause serious issues if not detected and repaired quickly. Home inspectors in Utah have a duty of diligence when performing home inspections as part of the home buying process, and overlooking even small cracks in the foundation can be a cause for alarm. Utah homeowners should take any mention of foundation cracks seriously, as these can quickly turn into severely damaged foundations if left unchecked, costing significant amounts of money to repair or replace. It is wise for Utah homebuyers to diligently read inspection reports and be aware of any potential problems before finalizing a purchase.

2.  Water damage

Water damage is another common issue that is often found during home inspections in Utah Homes. This damage can be caused by a number of things, including leaks in the roof, plumbing problems, or even flooding. Water damage can lead to a number of problems, including mold growth, rot, and structural damage.

Utah is a dry climate, yet care must still be taken when it comes to water damage on Utah homes. Water damage is a common issue found during home inspections in Utah. This is usually the result of neglected maintenance around the house to control water flow. If you are considering buying a home in Utah, be sure your inspector checks for signs of water damage and raises any necessary concerns. Taking these steps beforehand can save you from having to spend more money on repairs after moving into the house.

3.  Electrical problems

Electrical problems are another common issue that is often found during home inspections. These problems can range from simple issues, such as loose wiring, to more serious issues, such as faulty electrical panels. Electrical problems can be dangerous and should be repaired right away.

For Utah home buyers, it is important to consider getting an electrical inspection done prior to purchasing a new property – this will help ensure that any potential electrical problems are identified and remedied before committing to the home purchase. Electrical issues can be dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible.

4.  Outdated plumbing

Plumbing problems are another shocking home inspection find that is often found during home inspections. These problems can range from simple leaks to more serious issues, such as degraded sewer lines. Plumbing problems can cause water damage and mold issues and should be repaired as soon as possible.

Buying a home with outdated plumbing can set you up to face expensive repair and replacement costs down the road. Sewer line replacements, in particular, are among the most costly plumbing jobs and the hardest to find without a professional inspection. For Utah homebuyers, it is highly recommended that they have any prospective property inspected by a Utah home inspector prior to purchase to ensure that the plumbing is up-to-date and running efficiently. Knowing the current condition of your new home’s plumbing systems will help you avoid potential large expenses in the future.

5.  HVAC problems

HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) problems are another common issue that is often found during home inspections. These problems can range from simple issues, such as a dirty filter, to more serious issues, such as a faulty furnace. HVAC problems can be dangerous and should be repaired as soon as possible.

Utah homeowners who are in the process of buying a house should be aware that HVAC problems have been known to be some of the most shocking home inspection finds that are found during home inspections. One of the most important systems in Utah homes is an efficient and stable HVAC system. Therefore, it is essential to have your Utah home inspected and tested before making any final decisions. Besides being costly to repair or replace, HVAC issues can also be dangerous if not carefully managed by a trained professional. When faced with HVAC problems while buying a Utah home, it’s best to consult a qualified inspector and take prompt action to address the issue.

6.  Pest infestation

Pest infestation is another shocking home inspection find. These pests can include insects, rodents, and even animals such as raccoons and certain types of birds. Pest infestations can lead to property damage and should be controlled as soon as possible

Pest infestation can be an unwelcome surprise when Utah homebuyers are undergoing an inspection. Not only do termites and other pests give homeowners the creeps, but also these unwanted guests can cause extensive damage to the structure of a home without proper protection and prevention. The warning signs of termite activity may be difficult to spot for those unfamiliar with Utah homes, making it vital for all prospective buyers to ensure a professional Utah home inspector is hired before signing documents and taking ownership. During an inspection, the Utah experienced inspector will look for all the sneaky signs of pest activity in order to protect potential buyers from costly termite repairs.

7.  Poorly Installed Insulation

One of the most shocking home inspection finds is poorly installed insulation. While insulation is designed to keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer, poorly installed insulation can actually do the opposite. Poorly installed insulation can allow heat and cold to enter the home, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature. Additionally, poorly installed insulation can lead to higher energy bills as the home’s heating and cooling system will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Utah homes experience some of the most extreme temperature swings in the United States so having a properly insulated home is critical for maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature. Unfortunately, if insulation hasn’t been installed correctly it won’t be able to do its job, leaving you with energy bills that are higher than they should be and uncomfortable temperatures indoors. You can try and spot signs of poorly installed insulation yourself, but it’s often difficult to identify these issues without an expert eye. That’s why it’s important to get an Utah home inspector before you make a purchase as they’re skilled in finding insulation problems so you can deal with them quickly before any further damage is caused.

8.  Asbestos

Asbestos in another shocking home inspection find in Utah homes. Differentiating which materials contain the toxic mineral can be difficult for the untrained eye. The best way to ensure that your Utah home purchase is safe from dangerous asbestos is to hire a professional home inspector. Home inspectors are able to recognize and report what materials are possibly affected by asbestos before you buy.

Asbestos is a mineral that was once used in a variety of building materials, including insulation, flooring, and shingles. While asbestos is not dangerous when it is intact and undisturbed, it can be harmful if it is damaged or disturbed, as this can release harmful fibers into the air. If these fibers are inhaled, they can cause lung cancer and other respiratory problems. So protect yourself; make sure you hire a certified home inspector before making your home purchase.

9.  Lead Paint

Lead paint was once used in homes but has since been banned due to the health risks it poses. If lead paint is present in a home, it can be dangerous if it is disturbed, as this can release lead dust into the air. Inhaling lead dust can cause a variety of health problems, including brain damage, developmental delays, and learning difficulties.

While a home inspector cannot definitively state that lead based paint is present without sending samples to a lab, it is nonetheless a shocking home inspection find when suspected lead based paint is detected during an inspection of the home. Utah residents in the market for a new home should be sure to arrange for an in-depth inspection of the home before they make their purchase. Being aware of any potential presence of lead based paint prior to buying can save Utah families from coming into contact with this health hazard, so the effort and expense put into the inspection process can be well worth it.

10.  Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be produced by fuel-burning appliances like furnaces and water heaters. If carbon monoxide leaks from these appliances, it can build up to dangerous levels in a home and cause serious health problems, including brain damage and death. Carbon monoxide leaks are a shocking home inspection find in Utah Homes.

When house hunting, Utah families should ensure that they test for this toxic gas. Sadly, at least 430 people in the US die per year from carbon monoxide poisoning according to the CDC.  Your professional Utah home inspector is trained and has the right tools to test for any carbon monoxide leaks in and around your prospective home. 

11.  Radon

High concentrations of radon gas is a shocking home inspection find. Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the environment but can build up to dangerous levels in homes. Cracks and other openings in the foundation or walls can allow radon gas to enter. Radon gas can also simply seep through the porous concrete foundation of your home. Radon gas exposure has been linked to lung cancer, so it is important to have your home tested for radon.

There is no way to predict which Utah homes will have high concentrations of radon gas. For example: two identical homes built side-by-side can have wildly different radon level concentrations. Always get your prospective home inspected by a professional home inspector. You can read more about the dangers of radon gas directly on the EPA’s website here: Environmental Protection Agency

Be Prepared!

Moving into a new home is an exciting time. But, taking the time to discover overlooked issues can save you a lot of headaches in the long run! From suspicious cracks to pest infestations and everything in between – proper home inspections will no doubt be your saving grace. So don’t put yourself at risk – Our expert team is standing by ready to connect you with only the top-rated local Utah home inspection companies. Contact us today and take one step closer towards buying the best home for you!