🔍 Top 10 Common Issues Found During a Home Inspection in Nashville

hillstophomeinspec
Jun 27
2 min read

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just maintaining a home in Nashville, TN, it’s important to know what to expect during a home inspection. At Hill’s Top Home Inspections, we’ve seen it all—from minor fixes to major red flags.

Here are the top 10 most common issues we find during home inspections in Middle Tennessee, and why they matter.

1. 🏠 Roof Damage or Deterioration

From missing shingles to old flashing and hail damage, roof issues are the most common defects in homes across Nashville. Many roofs show signs of aging, especially after years of Southern weather.

Why It Matters:

Potential water intrusion
Expensive repairs
Insurance claim complications

👉 We use drone photography to inspect even the most inaccessible roofs.

2. ⚡ Electrical Problems

Outdated wiring, overloaded panels, and missing GFCI outlets come up regularly—especially in homes built before 1990.

Common Issues:

Double-tapped breakers
Ungrounded outlets
Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels

3. 💧 Plumbing Defects

We often find leaking pipes, poor drainage, or polybutylene plumbing in older homes.

Common Findings:

Slow drainage
Rusted shutoff valves
Improper slope on drain lines

4. 🌡️ HVAC Issues

HVAC units with clogged filters, dirty coils, or poor airflow are extremely common. We also see frequent issues with aged or neglected systems.

We Check:

Age and functionality
Duct conditions
Return placement and sealing

5. 🌧️ Grading and Drainage Problems

Poor grading or improperly placed downspouts often cause foundation moisture problems.

Signs:

Soggy soil around foundation
Downspouts draining too close
Gutter systems missing extensions

6. 🔍 Crawlspace Concerns

From standing water to pests and mold, crawlspaces are often overlooked—but they're one of the first places we inspect.

Frequent Finds:

Moisture without a vapor barrier
Inadequate insulation
Mold on floor joists

👉 We always enter crawlspaces and document with photo and video.

7. 🪟 Window and Door Issues

Sticky doors, fogged windows, or improper sealing can lead to energy loss and moisture damage.

8. 🚪 Attic Ventilation or Insulation Problems

Poor ventilation leads to overheating and moisture buildup, especially in Middle Tennessee's humid summers.

9. 🧱 Foundation Cracks

Hairline cracks may be cosmetic—but wide or stair-step cracks can signal settlement or shifting.

When It’s a Concern:

Vertical cracks over 1/4 inch
Horizontal or bulging walls
Uneven floors inside

10. 🔌 Missing or Non-Functioning Smoke/CO Detectors

Every home should have functioning detectors in bedrooms, hallways, and near HVAC equipment.

🛠️ What to Do With This Info

If you’re a homebuyer, these issues help you negotiate repairs or price. If you’re a seller, knowing what to fix ahead of time can prevent deal-killing surprises.