What Fails a Home Inspection?
A lot of people ask me, “What fails a home inspection?”
The short answer is—nothing really fails.
A home inspection is not a pass/fail test. It is a detailed, unbiased look at the home’s current condition from top to bottom. That said, there are things that commonly cause concern or derail a real estate deal. Here’s what you should know.
Home Inspectors Do Not Pass or Fail Homes
Let me say this clearly—as home inspectors, we do not pass or fail homes.
We document what we see, point out issues that could impact safety or major systems, and explain the findings. Whether something is a dealbreaker or not—that is up to the buyer.
What Typically Raises Red Flags?
Here are the most common issues I see that lead to buyers backing out or renegotiating:
Structural Problems
Cracks in the foundation, settlement, and horizontal movement in block walls are serious. Some can be fixed; others require structural engineers. You can read more in my guide to foundation crack types and causes.
Roof Issues
Missing shingles, worn coverings, soft spots, and attic leaks are red flags. Roof replacements are costly, and buyers often do not expect that surprise.
Electrical Hazards
Outdated panels, double taps, ungrounded outlets, and exposed wiring show up a lot—especially in older homes. These are safety issues that need licensed electricians.
Plumbing Problems
A few leaks are minor—but corroded pipes, aging water heaters, or signs of past sewage backups are bigger concerns, especially when hidden until inspection day.
HVAC Problems
Old or non-functional systems can be a major dealbreaker, especially in the dead of summer or winter. Buyers want to know the system is reliable.
Water Damage and Mold
Basement seepage, wet insulation, or mold growth are always worth investigating. These usually point to poor drainage, roof leaks, or other hidden moisture problems.
What If Major Issues Are Found?
If significant problems turn up, buyers typically:
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Ask for repairs or credits
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Request further evaluations (structural engineer, roofer, etc.)
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Walk away (if the contract allows)
This is exactly why a thorough inspection matters—you want to know what you are getting into before closing.
Should Sellers Be Worried About “Failing”?
No—but sellers should be prepared.
A pre-listing inspection can help identify problems before they scare off a buyer. You can read more about that in my article on pre-listing home inspections.
Final Thoughts from a NJ Home Inspector
After inspecting thousands of homes across New Jersey, I can tell you this:
Some homes have big problems. Some just need a little work. Either way, the inspection is about helping buyers make informed decisions—not passing or failing anything.
If you are buying or selling and need a thorough, clear, and unbiased inspection, make sure you are working with an experienced, independent NJ home inspector.
About the Author
John Martino is the owner of LookSmart Home Inspections, serving all of New Jersey with over 24 years of inspection experience. He performs one inspection per day, offers thermal imaging, and delivers detailed 90+ page reports with photos. Learn more at LookSmartHomeInspections.com