Top 10 Issues Found in Chicagoland Home Inspections

Top 10 Issues Found in Chicagoland Home Inspections
By City Home Inspectors

Buying or selling a home in the Chicago area? Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or a realtor, one thing is certain: a thorough home inspection is non-negotiable. At City Home Inspectors, we’ve inspected thousands of homes across the city and its suburbs. Here are the top 10 most common issues we find—plus why addressing them early can save you time, money, and major headaches.

1. Foundation Cracks & Settlement
   Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles take a toll on foundations. Horizontal cracks or stair-step patterns in basement walls can indicate serious structural issues.

2. Roof Damage & Leaks
   From missing shingles to clogged gutters, roofs in older Chicago neighborhoods often suffer neglect—especially flat ones common in bungalows and two-flats.

3. Outdated Electrical Systems
   Knob-and-tube wiring and ungrounded outlets are more common than you'd think in homes built pre-1950. These are not just code violations—they're fire risks.

4. Plumbing Problems
   Galvanized pipes, low water pressure, and slow drains hint at bigger issues like corroded or clogged lines.

5. Poor Ventilation & Mold
   Bathrooms and attics lacking proper ventilation invite mold growth—especially in humid summers or poorly sealed homes.

6. HVAC System Failures
   From aged furnaces to ductwork leaks, malfunctioning heating/cooling systems can lead to high energy bills and comfort issues.

7. Insufficient Insulation
   Many older homes in Chicago lack proper attic or wall insulation, causing energy inefficiency and higher utility costs.

8. Window & Door Deficiencies
   Drafty windows, rotting frames, or poor sealing are frequent offenders—especially in homes with original wooden sashes.

9. Drainage & Grading Issues
   Improper slope around the house often leads to basement flooding and water intrusion—common after spring rains.

10. Deck & Porch Instability
    Loose railings, rotting support beams, and code violations plague many of the city’s back porches—some of which are decades old.

🎯 Whether you're listing a property or making one your own, don’t guess—inspect. Our experienced team at City Home Inspectors will guide you every step of the way with fast, clear, and trustworthy reports.

👉 Book your inspection today at www.cityhomeinspectors.com