110 Nightmarish Home Inspector Scenarios

By Family Handyman

Updated on Nov. 22, 2023

After witnessing these real-life home inspector photos, you’ll be left wondering what some homeowners were thinking! Prepare to be astonished by these DIY disasters and questionable construction choices.

Shocking DIY Fails and Construction Nightmares

Improperly Supported Adjustable Support Column

Adjustable Support Column: This adjustable support column, relying on steel supporting pins, should only be temporary, according to the American Society of Home Inspectors. Using it for permanent support is a major safety hazard.

Precariously Balanced Deck with Inadequate Support

Bad Deck Support: Decks, regardless of height, demand proper construction. This example showcases inadequate support, posing a serious risk of collapse. Learn the signs of deck failure to prevent accidents.

Unsafe and Unconventional Egress Window

Bad Egress: This makeshift egress window, seemingly bolted to the roof with a chain, is far from a safe emergency escape. It’s a prime example of the bizarre discoveries home inspectors encounter.

Deck Supported by a Haphazard Pile of Wood

Bad Deck Support (Again): A pile of wood masquerading as a deck support system is a recipe for disaster. This precarious structure is an accident waiting to happen. Follow proper deck building guidelines for safety.

Roof Designed to Drain Towards a Wall

Bad Roof Design: This roof, inexplicably sloped towards a vertical wall, defies logic and guarantees water damage. Effective gutter systems rely on proper roof design for efficient drainage.

Fire Hazard: Baseboard Heater in Crawl Space

Baseboard Heater in Crawl Space: Placing a baseboard heater in a crawl space is an extreme fire hazard. Instead of risking a fire, insulate the crawl space for energy efficiency and pest control.

Incorrectly Positioned Beam Splice on Deck Post

Beam Splice Not Over Post: This misaligned beam splice barely rests on the supporting post, violating building codes and compromising structural integrity. Proper bearing is crucial for deck safety.

Beam Penetrating a Chimney Structure

Beam Through Chimney: A beam running directly through a chimney raises serious safety concerns, assuming the chimney is still functional. This is a significant structural flaw.

Severely Bent Electrical Outlet Cover

Bent Outlet Cover: This remarkably bent outlet cover highlights poor electrical box placement. Proper planning prevents such issues and ensures a safe and functional electrical system.

Boulder Used as a Deck Footing

Boulder Footing: Using a boulder as a deck footing is an unconventional and potentially unstable solution. Proper footings are essential for a deck’s structural integrity and longevity. Learn how to build frost-proof footings for a secure foundation.

Frozen Faucet with Leaking Water

Leaking Faucet

This frozen faucet demonstrates the power of hard water and freezing temperatures. A freeze detector and a new faucet are likely necessary repairs.

Operating Room Lights Installed in a Garage

A Garage Prepped for Elective Surgery

While these operating room lights might provide excellent illumination, they highlight an unusual repurposing of equipment. Consider more conventional shop lighting solutions for a safer setup.

Overabundance of Mousetraps in a Single Location

Mouse Apocalypse

This excessive number of mousetraps indicates a serious rodent infestation. Strategic placement, rather than sheer quantity, is key to effective pest control. Learn about proper mousetrap placement and pest control strategies.

Combustion Air Vent Covered with Duct Tape

More Duct Tape “Ingenuity”

Blocking a combustion air vent with duct tape is a dangerous mistake, preventing proper airflow and potentially leading to asphyxiation. This is a critical furnace repair that should be addressed immediately.

Conclusion

These home inspector nightmares serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proper home maintenance, repairs, and construction practices. Don’t cut corners when it comes to the safety and integrity of your home. Consult with professionals when necessary and always prioritize safety over quick fixes.