Top Home Inspection Items | Alexandria Real Estate Agents

Want to know the 10 top items identified in a home inspection? Whether you are a buyer or seller, it’s valuable to understand the key home inspection items that are likely to require repair.

For buyers, it’s important to anticipate that certain home components may need attention, and depending on the contract, these repairs may or may not be negotiable. However, most of them are relatively easy fixes and not cause for concern!

Sellers should be aware that despite their efforts to prepare the home for sale, an inspector will likely identify repair items, as it’s part of their role, but they can minimize the list by paying attention to the below issues. Let’s explore the common home inspection items to look out for:

1. Damaged/Deteriorated Trim

Typically caused by age and water, it’s crucial to address signs of wear by promptly painting or replacing the trim. If your property is in an HOA they may require you to repair it.

2. Missing GFCI Receptacle

Code requirements since 1996, GFCI receptacles allow for plug resetting at the site rather than at the electrical box.

3. Non-functional Light Fixtures

This could range from a simple lightbulb change to more serious issues like a faulty circuit.

4. Loose Toilet to the Floor

A loose toilet may indicate the need to replace the wax ring attaching it to the floor to prevent potential collapse.

Preparing to buy a home? Check out these related blogs for more tips!

5. Clogged Gutters

Regular gutter cleaning (at least twice a year, every 6 weeks during fall) is essential to avoid significant water-related problems.

6. Absence of Downspout Extension

Without this extension, water can easily infiltrate the foundation or basement, posing a risk.

7. Lack of Garage Door Opener Auto Reverse

Since 1993, auto reverse functionality has been crucial for preventing individuals from becoming trapped under the garage door, especially important for households with children or pets.

8. Missing Electrical Cover Plate

It’s essential for safety reasons to ensure that all electrical work includes cover plates to prevent contact with wires.

Need more advice related to home selling? Explore these other blog posts!

9. Oven Missing Anti-Tip Bracket

Required since 1991, this feature prevents the oven from tipping forward if a heavy object is placed on the open door.

10. Seal Broken on Windows

A broken seal on windows is mostly cosmetic but will cause fog on your windows.

None of these items are major issues or “dealbreakers”, but if they are not repaired, they could pose larger problems down the line. When selling, a buyer may believe the home was not well cared for if many of these issues are present. It is always best to address these items on an ongoing basis.

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If you’re looking to buy or sell in Northern Virginia, we’d love to help. Contact us today! Fill out the form below or call us directly 703-362-3221, email us at sue@thegoodhartgroup.com or allison@thegoodhartgroup.com.