Knowing about some of the situations that can exist in home allows you to be well-informed. History tells us that there are potential items that have been discovered as the top ten defects in most homes.
Roofing:
Leaks due to flashing, material failure due to aging and deterioration
Ceiling Stains, Indicating Past or Current Roof Leaks:
The problem here is that you often can’t tell if the roof still leaks, unless it is inspected on a rainy day. Some stains are merely the residual effects of leaks that have been repaired. There is also the possibility that the ceiling stains were caused by a former leak in the roof.
Water Intrusion:
Water penetration into the basement or crawlspace due to surface water conditions, poor rain water distribution, poor grading around the foundation
Electrical Safety Issues:
Due to age of home, lack of ground fault circuit interrupters, faulty wiring conditions in panels or elsewhere in the home, improper sized circuit breakers and fuses, etc.
Windows/Doors:
The operating (moving) windows and doors will wear out over time. Impacts include air infiltration, difficult to clean/operate, and increased energy costs. Condensation frequently forms when warm, moist interior air reaches the cool metal frame. Combine that source of moisture with dust and dirt due to a lack of cleaning and the end results is a mold growth.
HVAC:
Air filters, accumulations of dirt may signal improper preventive maintenance or system failures.
Rotten Wood:
Rotted wood at exterior and at various plumbing fixtures, roof eaves, decks, steps, tubs and showers, and below toilets
Structural:
Issues due to improper construction and/or alterations, or cracks in the foundation wall may indicate a serious structural problem
Fireplace and Chimney Conditions:
Lack of maintenance and cleaning, fire safety issues, lack of rain caps
Neglect/Maintenance:
Be very cautious of a home suffering from deferred maintenance. You can spot them immediately and they will cost you a lot of money to bring them up to acceptable standards.