The Most Common Issues Found in Colorado Home Inspections

Every home is different, and every home inspection tells a different story. A 1960s ranch can have very different concerns than a newly constructed home. However, certain issues show up repeatedly during home inspections throughout Colorado.

For homebuyers in Northern Colorado communities such as Fort Collins, Windsor, Greeley, Loveland, and the surrounding areas, understanding these common issues can help you know what to expect during the inspection process.

Many common home inspection issues in Colorado are influenced by the state’s climate, soil, and geology. Others are related to the age of the home, construction practices, maintenance, or previous repairs. From elevated radon levels and sewer line deficiencies to roof damage, drainage concerns, and aging mechanical systems, here are some of the most common issues Colorado homebuyers should be aware of before purchasing a home.

Radon — A Hidden Concern in Colorado Homes

Radon is an important concern for Colorado homeowners because it cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. It is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock, and it can enter homes through cracks, joints, gaps, and other openings in the foundation.

Colorado has a high potential for elevated indoor radon levels, and elevated levels can occur in homes of any age or construction type.

The only way to know the radon level in a home is to test it.

The EPA recommends taking action when radon levels are 4.0 pCi/L or higher and also encourages homeowners to consider mitigation when levels are between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L.

The good news is that elevated radon levels can usually be reduced with a properly designed radon mitigation system.

Because radon levels can vary significantly from one home to another—even between neighboring homes—we recommend testing rather than assuming a home has low radon simply because of its location or age.

Sewer Line Deficiencies

The main sewer line is an important part of a home that cannot be fully evaluated during a standard visual home inspection.

Older homes may have aging sewer materials such as clay or cast iron. Over time, sewer lines can develop cracks, corrosion, root intrusion, offsets, deterioration, or other conditions that can restrict flow or eventually lead to failure.

Newer homes are not immune to sewer problems either. Issues can include improper slope, low areas or “bellies,” construction debris, damaged piping, or problems with connections.

A sewer scope inspection allows us to inspect the interior of the accessible sewer line with a specialized camera and identify visible deficiencies before they become an expensive surprise.

A relatively small investment in a sewer scope can provide valuable information about a component of the property that would otherwise remain largely hidden.

Roof and Flashing Deficiencies

Colorado weather can be tough on roofing systems.

Intense sunlight, temperature swings, snow, ice, wind, and hail can all contribute to deterioration over time. During inspections, we commonly identify conditions such as damaged or deteriorated shingles, exposed fasteners, improper repairs, deteriorated sealants, and flashing deficiencies.

Flashing helps direct water away from vulnerable areas where the roof meets chimneys, walls, plumbing penetrations, skylights, valleys, and other transitions.

When these areas are improperly installed, damaged, or deteriorated, water can enter the structure and cause damage that may not immediately be visible from inside the home.

When appropriate, Done Right Inspections uses tools such as moisture meters and infrared thermal imaging to help identify conditions that may indicate elevated moisture or possible water intrusion.

Aging HVAC Systems

Heating and cooling equipment does not last forever.

A system may continue operating beyond its typical service life, while another may require significant repairs much sooner. Age alone does not determine the condition of HVAC equipment, which is why evaluating how the system is operating at the time of inspection is important.

During a home inspection, we look for visible conditions such as corrosion, improper installation, damaged components, inadequate maintenance, unusual operation, and other signs that may warrant servicing or further evaluation by a qualified HVAC professional.

An older furnace or air conditioner does not necessarily mean you should avoid the home. However, knowing that major equipment is aging can help you better understand potential future expenses and plan accordingly.

Electrical Deficiencies

Electrical issues can be found in both older and newer homes.

Older properties may contain equipment or wiring methods that deserve additional evaluation because of their age, design, condition, or known performance concerns. Examples can include certain older electrical panels, aluminum branch-circuit wiring, outdated components, or modifications made over decades of ownership.

In homes of all ages, we may also find improperly completed electrical work, open junction boxes, damaged receptacles, missing GFCI protection in locations where it is expected, improper wiring, or other visible safety concerns.

Electrical deficiencies should be taken seriously. When conditions warrant it, we may recommend further evaluation or repairs by a qualified electrician.

Drainage and Grading Problems

One of the most important parts of protecting a home is managing water around the foundation.

Ideally, grading around the home should help direct surface water away from the foundation. When soil settles or landscaping directs water toward the house, moisture can collect near the foundation and contribute to water intrusion, foundation deterioration, or moisture problems in basements and crawlspaces.

We see drainage concerns in both older and newer homes throughout Northern Colorado.

New construction can experience settlement after the original grading is completed, while landscaping changes, patios, sidewalks, downspouts, and years of soil movement can alter drainage patterns around older homes.

Proper gutters, downspout extensions, grading, and drainage can make a significant difference in protecting a home from moisture-related damage.

Moisture Intrusion and Mold-Like Growth

Colorado may have a relatively dry climate, but that does not mean homes are immune to moisture problems.

Roof leaks, plumbing leaks, foundation water intrusion, poor drainage, condensation, and inadequate ventilation can all create conditions that support microbial growth and damage building materials.

Some moisture problems are obvious. Others may be concealed behind walls, beneath flooring, or in areas that are difficult to access.

Done Right Inspections uses visual observations along with tools such as moisture meters and infrared thermal imaging when appropriate to help identify conditions that may indicate elevated moisture.

Thermal imaging does not allow us to “see through walls,” but temperature differences can help identify areas that deserve closer investigation.

Common Home Inspection Issues in Colorado: What Buyers Should Know.

Finding defects during a home inspection does not automatically mean you should walk away from the property.

Homes are complex systems, and virtually every home has items that need maintenance, repair, monitoring, or improvement. Some findings may be relatively minor, while others could represent significant safety concerns or future expenses.

The purpose of a Colorado home inspection is to help you better understand the condition of the property at the time of the inspection.

A thorough inspection gives you information you can use to ask better questions, discuss concerns with the appropriate professionals, plan for future maintenance, and make a more informed decision about the property.

At Done Right Inspections, LLC, we provide home inspections throughout Fort Collins, Windsor, Greeley, Loveland, and surrounding Northern Colorado communities. Our goal is not simply to hand you a list of defects. We want you to understand the home you are buying—how its major systems are performing, what concerns were observed, and which items may deserve your attention.

Inspecting Homes. Educating Homeowners. Protecting Your Investment.