Whether you’re buying or selling your home, or simply staying put, you should beware of these common problems that can cause headaches for years to come.  Home defects come in all shapes and sizes. From structural problems to air flow and ventilation issues, a lot of things can go wrong with your home.

Poor Drainage
Poor drainage is the most common problem found by home inspectors. To improve your drainage, you may have to install a new system of eaves, troughs and downspouts to better aim water away from the house. Inadequate drainage can be a devastating defect. Water can damage basements, garages and crawl spaces, compromising the foundation of the home and creating mold. Taking care of this issue is of dire importance, and buyers should avoid purchasing homes that may have drainage problems.

Rotted Wood
Another important defect to watch out for is rotted wood, both inside and outside the home. Wood that’s exposed to moisture rots over time. This can happen in bathrooms, including a tub surround, toilet seat, counter top, and flooring or even in the kitchen. These spots are especially vulnerable to moisture and should be protected with a special paint or finish.  Don’t forget to check the exterior of the home, including the deck, eaves, and trim for signs of rotting.

Bad Roofing
Always be attentive to the roof’s structure. Damaged shingles or improperly installed flashing are severe warning signs that trouble lurks ahead. Check for leaky ceilings as a sign of a damaged roof. Repairing the roof is crucial in order to prevent further damage later. Although it may be an expensive repair, it’s always best to take care of it before it affects other parts of the home.

Inadequate Ventilation
Without proper ventilation, a build-up of moisture can attack a home’s interior walls and structural components. Ventilation fans are a good idea for bathrooms without windows, and opening all of the home’s windows during bouts of good weather also helps to keep the air moving. Make sure the attic is properly ventilated to ensure that the roof has a long and functional life. Proper attic ventilation allows the intense heat of the sun to escape from the attic space and promote evaporation of moisture that would otherwise damage interior walls and structural elements.