Top 10 Issues Found During Home Inspections in Westchester County, NY & Fairfield County, CT

When buying or selling a home in Westchester County, NY or Fairfield County, CT, a professional home inspection is one of the most important steps in the process. Older housing stock, mixed construction styles, and changing weather conditions in this region often lead to recurring issues that buyers should understand before closing.

At Sonic Home Inspections, we perform thorough, detail-oriented home inspections, along with radon testing, mold testing, oil tank scans, infrared inspections, water quality testing, and more. Below are the top 10 most common issues we find during home inspections in Westchester and Fairfield counties.

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Roofs Near the End of Their Service Life

Many homes in Westchester and Fairfield counties have aging asphalt or roll roofing. We frequently observe:

  • Curling or cracking shingles

  • Granule loss

  • Multiple layers of roofing

  • Improper flashing around vents and chimneys

Sonic Home Inspections evaluates roof condition, remaining lifespan, and potential leak risks so buyers can plan accordingly.

Severe mold growth on a wall with exposed pipes and damaged drywall.

Moisture, Mold & Damp Basements or Crawlspaces

Moisture issues are extremely common in this region due to:

  • High water tables

  • Older foundations

  • Inadequate drainage or ventilation

We often see visible staining, elevated humidity, or mold-like growth. Sonic Home Inspections offers:

  • Mold assessments & air sampling

  • Infrared moisture detection

  • Moisture source identification

Sonic Home Inspections has Certified Mold Assessors on Staff to give you peace of Mind

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Electrical Safety Concerns

Common electrical issues include:

  • 100-amp services that may be undersized

  • Double-tapped breakers

  • Loose or non-operational outlets

  • Water lines running above electrical panels

Electrical safety is a major focus of every Sonic Home Inspection.

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Underground Oil Tank Concerns

Older homes in Westchester and Fairfield counties often previously used oil heat. We frequently find:

  • Evidence of prior oil tanks

  • Missing documentation of tank removal

Sonic Home Inspections provides underground oil tank scans to help reduce environmental and financial risk.

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Plumbing & Drainage Issues

Typical findings include:

  • Rusted or corroded drain lines

  • Leaking plumbing vents

  • Inaccessible cleanouts

  • Temporary or improper repairs

We document these clearly so buyers know what repairs may be needed.

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HVAC & Heat Pump Deficiencies

Common HVAC issues:

  • Rusted drain pans in attic air handlers

  • Heat pump compressors installed too close to grade

  • Deteriorated duct insulation

  • Mini-split systems lacking maintenance

Sonic Home Inspections evaluates heating, cooling, and ventilation systems for safety and performance.

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Insulation & Energy Efficiency Problems

We often find:

  • Missing or inadequate attic insulation

  • Drafty doors and windows

  • Energy loss due to air leaks

Improving insulation can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

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Structural Movement & Sloping Floors

In older homes especially, we commonly observe:

  • Floors sloping toward main beams

  • Temporary supports used permanently

  • Settlement-related movement

These conditions are documented and often referred for further evaluation.

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Decks, Railings & Exterior Safety Issues

Exterior safety concerns frequently include:

  • Wood rot on decks

  • Missing handrails or balusters

  • Uneven walkways

  • Improper stair landings

These are important for both safety and insurance considerations.

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Windows, Doors & General Wear

We often note:

  • Peeling paint (possible lead concern in older homes)

  • Cracked glass

  • Doors that don’t latch or close properly

  • Damaged trim or finishes

While some issues are cosmetic, others impact security, efficiency, and moisture control.

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Why Choose Sonic Home Inspections?

We provide clear explanations, detailed reports, and honest guidance so buyers and sellers can make informed decisions.

If you’re buying or selling a home in Westchester County NY or Fairfield County CT, contact Sonic Home Inspections today for a professional, reliable inspection.

Book Online Get a Quote (914) 255-6510