Top 10 Most Common Problems Found in Edmonton Home Inspections

Top 10 Most Common Problems Found in Edmonton Home Inspections

Buying or selling a home in Edmonton? A professional home inspection is one of the smartest steps you can take to avoid unexpected headaches. At InspecUs, we’ve inspected thousands of properties throughout Alberta—and time and again, we see the same issues arise. Whether you’re preparing to list your home or making an offer, knowing what to expect during a home inspection can help you make more informed decisions.

Here are the top 10 most common problems we uncover during home inspections in Edmonton:

1. Plumbing Leaks & Corrosion

Dripping faucets, slow drains, or leaking pipes under sinks may seem minor, but they often signal larger issues behind the walls or in the foundation. In older Edmonton homes, galvanized pipes are still common, and these are prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure.

What to watch for:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Rusty water or low pressure
• Drainage issues in kitchens or bathrooms

2. 
   Roofing Wear & Damage

Our freeze-thaw climate is tough on roofs. We often find worn shingles, inadequate flashing, or evidence of past leaks. Edmonton’s high winds and heavy snow loads can accelerate deterioration.

Common problems include:

• Curling or missing shingles
• Poor attic ventilation leading to ice dams
• Leaks around chimneys or skylights

3. 
   HVAC System Inefficiency

Many Alberta homes still operate with aging furnaces or improperly maintained HVAC systems. Inadequate heating or airflow can impact comfort, air quality, and even increase energy bills.

What we check:

• Furnace age and condition
• Ductwork leaks or blockages
• Dirty filters or malfunctioning thermostats

4. 
   Grading & Drainage Issues

Poor grading is a major culprit behind basement moisture in Edmonton homes. If the ground slopes toward the foundation, water can easily seep in, leading to mold or structural problems.

Watch for:

• Cracks in basement walls
• Damp or musty-smelling basements
• Negative slope in landscaping around the house

5. 
   Electrical Hazards

Faulty wiring is one of the most serious risks we encounter. Edmonton homes built before 1970 may contain aluminum wiring or outdated panels, which can lead to short circuits or even fire.

Red flags include:

• Flickering lights
• Overloaded breaker panels
• Two-prong (non-grounded) outlets

6. 
   Window & Door Seals

Failed seals around windows or doors are common, especially in older homes. Drafts reduce energy efficiency and can lead to moisture ingress.

Inspection may reveal:

• Condensation between panes
• Cold drafts near windows/doors
• Sticking or warped frames

7. 
   Foundation Cracks

A few hairline cracks can be normal, but large or shifting cracks might point to structural instability, especially after Edmonton’s cold winters and shifting soil.

Look for:

• Horizontal cracks in basement walls
• Gaps around windows or doors
• Sloping floors

8. 
   Poor Insulation & Ventilation

Inadequate attic insulation or ventilation can cause temperature imbalances and moisture buildup, which can rot the roof deck or grow mold.

Common issues:

• Uneven attic temperatures
• Mold in corners or near vents
• High energy bills

9. 
   Deck & Porch Deterioration

We frequently find loose railings, rotting supports, or poor fastening in exterior wooden structures. These are both a safety hazard and a code compliance issue.

What’s inspected:

• Deck footings and support beams
• Wood rot or insect damage
• Proper guardrail installation

10. 
    Smoke & CO Detector Deficiencies

It may sound simple, but we regularly find smoke or carbon monoxide detectors that are expired, missing, or not working.

Pro tip: Test detectors monthly and replace batteries yearly—or install hardwired, interconnected systems.

Why These Issues Matter in Edmonton Home Inspections

Edmonton’s cold winters, dry air, and quick seasonal shifts make maintenance even more important. A small leak or crack can become a much bigger issue when exposed to repeated freeze-thaw cycles or months of dry forced-air heating.

“Most of the issues we find in Edmonton homes are preventable with routine maintenance and awareness. A good home inspection is about more than checking boxes—it’s about giving homeowners the knowledge they need to protect their property long-term.”
— Banti Shaw, Founder & Chief Inspection Officer, InspecUs

Get Peace of Mind with a Professional Home Inspection in Edmonton!

At InspecUs, our certified home inspectors use infrared cameras, moisture meters, and years of local experience to catch problems before they become costly.

• Comprehensive inspections

• Fast 48-hour reports

• Detailed photos & action steps

• Honest, friendly service

Book your Edmonton home inspection today and get ahead of these common issues before they impact your comfort, safety, or resale value.

Schedule online now at www.inspecus.ca