It’s easy to fall in love with a home. The hardwood floors, the kitchen island, the big backyard, everything you’ve been dreaming of might seem perfect at first glance. But looks can be deceiving.
In Nashville and the surrounding Middle Tennessee area, homes often come with hidden issues that only a trained home inspector can uncover. Whether you’re a buyer ready to move in or a real estate agent guiding a client, knowing what’s beneath the surface can save you from costly surprises.
Before you close the deal, here are 7 of the most common problems a home inspection can catch.
1. Roofing Issues
From missing shingles to aging materials, roof defects are a common (and expensive) problem in Nashville homes. Inspectors look for things like:
- Curling or cracked shingles
- Improper or missing flashing
- Signs of past leaks or water intrusion
Why it matters: Roof repairs can range from minor patching to full replacement, costs that buyers need to factor in (or negotiate) before closing.
2. Electrical Hazards
Especially in older homes found in neighborhoods like East Nashville or Green Hills, outdated or unsafe electrical systems are a frequent discovery.
Common issues include:
- Ungrounded outlets
- Overloaded panels
- Aluminum wiring or amateur repairs
Why it matters: Electrical issues aren’t just inconvenient, they can be dangerous.
3. Foundation and Structural Movement
Middle Tennessee’s clay-heavy soil expands and contracts with moisture, which can impact a home’s foundation over time. Your inspector will look for:
- Step cracking in brick veneer
- Uneven floors or sticking doors
- Visible foundation settling or movement
Why it matters: Structural problems may require engineering evaluations and can affect a home’s long-term stability.
4. Moisture in Crawlspaces
Thanks to our humid climate, Nashville homes frequently battle moisture problems under the house. Crawlspaces are often out of sight—and out of mind.
Look for:
- Missing or damaged vapor barriers
- Standing water or high humidity
- Mold growth or rotted wood
Why it matters: Moisture problems can lead to mold, pests, and structural damage.
5. HVAC and Water Heater Deficiencies
These systems often look fine at a glance but may be underperforming or past their useful life. Inspectors check:
- Age and maintenance of HVAC units
- Signs of rust, corrosion, or leaking
- Missing expansion tanks on water heaters
Why it matters: Replacement costs can add up fast, especially if these systems are at the end of their lifespan.
6. Plumbing Problems
Minor leaks may seem harmless, but over time, they can cause serious water damage. Common issues include:
- Leaky under-sink pipes
- Slow drains or poor water pressure
- Corroded or outdated piping
Why it matters: Small leaks often signal bigger systemic issues—and early detection saves money.
7. Improper Grading and Drainage
Water should flow away from your home. Unfortunately, many properties in hilly or older areas of Nashville have poor grading.
Inspectors look for:
- Downspouts draining near the foundation
- Negative lot sloping
- Water pooling near the home
Why it matters: Improper drainage can lead to foundation issues and costly repairs.
The Bottom Line
A home inspection isn’t meant to scare you off, it’s meant to inform and protect you. Most problems are fixable. But knowing what you’re buying helps you make smart decisions, negotiate confidently, and avoid costly surprises after closing.
Whether you’re buying your first home in Donelson or helping a client land their dream house in Bellevue, DILIGENT is here to help.
Book your inspection today and let our experienced Middle Tennessee team uncover the truth, so you can move forward with confidence.
Experience the DILIGENT Difference
With DILIGENT, you can understand the value of your potential home investment by skipping the guesswork and gathering deeper information about your new home with our detailed reports provided the same day as your inspection.
