What are the red flags in a home inspection report?
The findings that deserve the most attention are the ones that are expensive, hard to see, or dangerous: signs of foundation or structural movement, active roof or plumbing leaks, water intrusion and mold, outdated or unsafe electrical wiring, and failing heating or cooling equipment. Cosmetic items rarely change a decision; these can.
Structural and foundation
Large or stepped cracks, sagging floors, bowed walls, doors that no longer close, and misaligned framing can all indicate movement. These are the findings most likely to require a specialist evaluation, and the ones with the widest range of repair costs.
Water, in any form
Water stains, foundation seepage, damp basement walls, missing or damaged flashing, and poor grading that sends water toward the house are early signs of problems that grow. Mold growth and rot are the later stage of the same story.
Electrical and fire safety
Exposed wiring, missing GFCI protection, overloaded panels, aluminum branch wiring, damaged flues, blocked chimneys, and loose gas connections are safety items rather than money items. They tend to be non-negotiable in a repair request.
Ageing major systems
A rusted furnace, corroded condenser, outdated galvanized or polybutylene plumbing, or a roof at the end of its life may be working today and still be the biggest cost on the horizon.
How Askitect flags these
Askitect's coverage areas are built around exactly these categories: structural integrity, roof and exterior envelope, drainage and moisture, electrical safety, fire and gas safety, HVAC, plumbing, hazardous materials, and interior conditions. Upload photos of the areas that worry you and the report returns a condition judgment for each.
