Local Defect Guide

Common home inspection issues in Chicago

Chicago buyers often need help separating normal older-home maintenance from safety concerns, material defects, and specialist follow-up.

Basement moisture and drainage Older electrical safety concerns Roof, attic, and masonry wear
Build a checklist

Property Type

Choose the Chicago property context

System Risk

Which defect category are you worried about?

Severity Buckets

How to read report language

Safety

Unsafe wiring, missing guards, gas venting, active leaks near electrical systems.

Ask what needs correction before closing or immediate follow-up.
Major repair

Roof failure, active basement seepage, end-of-life HVAC, structural movement.

Get contractor pricing before negotiating.
Further evaluation

Possible mold, sewer line risk, foundation movement, inaccessible systems.

Bring in the right specialist before assigning a dollar value.
Maintenance

Caulking, grading tune-ups, filter changes, minor fixture issues.

Keep these for ownership planning unless they reveal a larger defect.