March 2026 Home Inspection Update: Identifying Structural Red Flags

by April Mackey Iliff

Every month, our local home inspector shares the wildest things they find in the field and the best ways to keep your home safe.

This month...Well, they found a log.

If you think your DIY projects are creative, wait until you see this structural 'solution' in Shots from the Field.

Q: What are some red flags you see in homes as an inspector?

A: We get this question all the time, and while every home is unique, there are a few issues that show up again and again during our inspections. The deferred maintenance issues below tend to cause more significant problems down the road, or they may be indicative of safety concerns. In each case, we want to emphasize that anything can be fixed and that evaluation by a qualified professional is necessary to investigate and recommend a repair plan.

1. Grading & Drainage Problems
High grading around the foundation is one of the most common issues we identify in our reports. High grades are most commonly found in planter areas—homeowners may place new mulch without removing the old, creating potential issues. Ponding water around a foundation can cause a loss of support and settlement. When water sits against the foundation without proper drainage, the ponding can result in wood rot and mold throughout the structure.

2. Galvanized Pipes
“Galvanized” pipes are zinc-coated pipes that were meant to prevent rusting. Galvanized piping was common until the 1950s and lasts around 40 to 60 years. When galvanized pipes are found today, they are usually near the end of their lives and in need of replacement.

3. Main Drain & Sewer Issues
Clogged or obstructed pipes are extremely common. Many times, underground pipes are damaged by tree roots, which are drawn to pipes for their moisture. Signs of main drain and sewer issues are floor staining or standing water of unknown origin. Sewer line scans can identify any plumbing issues, giving insight to potential repairs.

4. Faulty Electrical
Electrical issues are often undetectable without a full-fledged inspection. However, if we come across antiquated systems such as knob and tube wiring or aluminum branch circuit wiring, we recommend further evaluation by an electrician. Similarly, unreliable brands of electrical panels, such as Federal Pacific Electric and Zinsco, may be prone to overheating and may be cause for concern.

5. Foundation Cracks
It’s important to note that not all foundation cracks are serious problems. Most concrete foundation cracks can be easily repaired, but understanding their cause is key. Corner cracks are extremely common. Normally, they are not cause for concern unless a piece falls off. When reinforcing steel is exposed or rusting, a coat of rust-inhibiting paint is required, along with a concrete patch to prevent further damage.

When you’re trying to sell your home, should you hire your own inspector? As it turns out, there are a lot of great reasons to get a pre-listing home inspection before a buyer makes an offer.

Here are the top 3:

1. You won’t be surprised.
There are certain flaws about your home you’re already aware of, but what about the things you know nothing about? When you order a pre-listing inspection, you get a top-to-bottom report of hundreds of features and systems in your home. If any problems are revealed, you’ll have a chance to repair them or build repairs into your asking price. This is especially good for DIYers, who can save a lot of money by completing simple repairs themselves.

2. You can price your home more accurately.
Pricing is one of the toughest parts of selling your home, but a pre-listing inspection makes it easier. Once you have a full picture of your home’s strengths and weaknesses, you can be a lot more confident that you’ve arrived at the right price point. If a buyer sees that you’ve priced your home transparently based on an independent inspection, they may also be less likely to submit a lower offer.

3. You’ll save time and stress on negotiations.
When all parties are fully informed about the home being sold, the process of selling goes much faster. Without a pre-listing inspection, the one question that’s bound to be on your mind is “What if there’s a deal-killing problem I don’t know about?” Conversely, if you do know about a problem that’s likely to affect a buyer’s decision, it’s better to get everything out in the open from the get-go.

Getting a pre-listing home inspection gives you peace of mind, helps you price your home accurately, and makes the selling process smoother for everyone involved. By addressing potential issues upfront, you can avoid surprises, reduce stress during negotiations, and present your home confidently to buyers. In the end, a little preparation goes a long way toward a faster, more successful sale.

Our inspectors are always finding interesting maintenance issues in the field. What’s going on in this picture?

Pictured above is a crawlspace with an improvised support column—what appears to be a cut log with a piece of scrap wood on top is wedged in place, seemingly to support the floor framing. Needless to say, makeshift repairs like these are not a viable solution and may be susceptible to movement, settlement, and moisture damage. We recommend that this new homeowner orders an assessment by a qualified foundation repair contractor.

Sometimes it really is the little things. These five maintenance issues might seem minor, but keeping up with them can go a long way toward making sure your home is safe and healthy.

1. Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for alerting families to dangerous conditions and should be checked on a regular basis. Batteries should be replaced every six months and the devices themselves should be replaced every seven to ten years.

2. GFCI Outlets.
GFCIs, or ground-fault circuit interrupters, help protect against electrical shocks in areas of the home where water is present, like the kitchen and the bathroom. Testing these outlets monthly ensures they trip correctly, preventing potential electrocution hazards.

3. Door & Window Locks.
Regularly inspecting and maintaining deadbolts, latches, and window locks helps ensure your home remains secure. It’s important to regularly inspect these items for loose screws and worn parts.

4. HVAC Filter Replacement.
Routinely changing HVAC filters is more than a comfort or money-saving issue, it’s actually important for your family’s health. A clean HVAC filter has the power to remove dust, allergens, and pollutants from the air, improving indoor air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory problems. This is particularly important for children, the elderly, or anyone with allergies or asthma.

5. Water Leak Checks.
Small leaks under sinks, around toilets, or near appliances can quickly lead to bigger problems like mold growth. Performing routine inspections helps catch leaks early, preventing property damage and expensive repairs in the future.

Mike Mankin | RBI #48948

Owner/Inspector

843.300.5760

March 2026 Home Inspection Update: Identifying Structural Red Flags

by April Mackey Iliff

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