10 Overlooked Red Flags We Catch During Home Inspections (That Could Cost You Thousands Later)
When you’re buying a home, it’s easy to fall in love with curb appeal, a spacious kitchen, or a perfect backyard. But at Journey Home Inspections, we’re focused on what you can’t always see—the hidden issues that could turn your dream home into a financial nightmare. After inspecting thousands of homes across North Texas, we’ve learned that some of the most expensive repairs come from red flags that less thorough inspectors miss.
Here are 10 overlooked red flags we catch during our inspections—and why they matter.
1. HVAC Systems That Short-Cycle
Short-cycling means the system turns on and off more frequently than it should. It’s a sign of poor calibration, a failing compressor, or undersized ductwork. This leads to higher energy bills and costly HVAC repairs.
2. Improper Grading Near the Foundation
If the soil slopes toward the house, water will follow. Over time, this can cause foundation shifting and drainage issues. We often find this in newer homes that haven’t yet settled.
3. Electrical Panel Hazards
We frequently uncover double-tapped breakers, undersized wires for their breaker size, or outdated panels like Zinsco or Westinghouse models. These issues are safety hazards and expensive to replace. We recommend all panel issues be evaluated by a licensed and insured electrician.
4. Evidence of Poor Quality Repairs
Sometimes repairs are more about appearances than substance. We often find caulking over structural cracks, mismatched materials, or patched plumbing leaks that haven’t addressed the root cause.
5. Loose Plumbing Fixtures
Loose toilets or sink faucets might seem minor, but they can lead to leaks, rot, and damage to subflooring. We check all fixtures for movement and moisture.
6. Poor Attic Ventilation
Many inspectors skip the attic or take only a quick glance. We evaluate insulation levels, look for blocked vents, and check for signs of heat damage—especially in Texas where attic temps can exceed 140°F.
7. Missing or Non-Functional GFCI/AFCI Protection
Modern standards require GFCI protection near water and AFCI protection in bedrooms. Missing or faulty devices are a safety hazard and could impact insurance coverage.
8. Undersized Breaker Wires
We sometimes find 14-gauge wire on a 20-amp breaker or 10-gauge wire on a 40-amp breaker. This creates overheating risks. At Journey, we visually confirm proper wire sizing and recommend licensed electricians for any corrections.
9. Signs of Foundation Movement
We check for stair-step cracks, door misalignment, and separation at walls and ceilings. Even subtle signs can indicate potential movement. In those cases, we recommend further evaluation by a licensed structural engineer.
10. Exterior Hose Bibs Without Freeze Protection
In North Texas, a frozen hose bib can rupture and flood walls. We check for signs of damage and recommend installing insulated covers or frost-proof hose bibs to prevent future issues.
Why These Red Flags Matter
Any one of these issues might seem small—until it leads to thousands in repairs. That’s why a home inspection isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about protecting your investment. At Journey Home Inspections, we’re known for our thorough approach, advanced tools, and honest reporting. We treat every home like it’s our own.
Don’t Risk the Unknown—Schedule with Confidence
If you’re buying, building, or listing in Fort Worth or the greater DFW area, don’t settle for an average inspection. Choose a partner who looks deeper, explains clearly, and stands behind their work.
Contact Journey Home Inspections today and schedule the inspection that helps you move forward with peace of mind.
Where your Journey is our passion.