At Home Health Inspections, weâve inspected homes all across Washington State and found that most household issues start smallâand stay inexpensiveâif caught early. These are the Top 20 common home problems we see most often, along with easy fixes that any homeowner can handle or arrange quickly without breaking the bank.
1. Leaky Faucets or Showerheads
A slow drip may seem minor, but it wastes hundreds of gallons of water a year.
Easy Fix: Turn off the water under the sink or tub, remove the handle, and replace the worn rubber washer or cartridge. Apply thread seal tape on the threads when reinstalling. Most repairs take less than 20 minutes and cost under $10.
2. Running Toilets
That constant trickle sound is usually from a faulty flapper or fill valve.
Easy Fix: Open the tank and inspect the rubber flapper. If itâs warped or doesnât seal properly, replace it. If the water level keeps rising, adjust or replace the fill valve. A basic toilet repair kit costs around $15 and stops unnecessary water waste immediately.
3. Clogged or Weak Bathroom Exhaust Fans
Poor ventilation allows moisture buildup that can cause mold.
Easy Fix: Turn off the power, remove the cover, vacuum out dust, and wipe down the blades. If airflow still feels weak, clean the duct where it exits outside or replace the fan with a higher CFM-rated model.
4. Missing or Cracked Caulking
Gaps around tubs, sinks, or windows allow moisture to enter walls and flooring.
Easy Fix: Scrape away old caulk completely. Wipe the area dry, then apply a thin, steady bead of silicone or mildew-resistant caulk. Smooth with your finger or a finishing tool, and let it cure for at least 24 hours before use.
5. Damaged Weatherstripping
Even small gaps around doors and windows can add up to big energy losses.
Easy Fix: Inspect door frames and window sashes for brittle, cracked, or flattened seals. Replace with adhesive-backed foam or rubber weatherstripping. For larger gaps at the bottom of doors, install a door sweep or adjustable threshold.
6. Dirty HVAC Filters
Dust-clogged filters make your furnace or air conditioner work harder.
Easy Fix: Replace filters every 1â3 months, depending on the type and season. Use pleated filters for better air capture. A clean filter improves air quality, efficiency, and comfort throughout the home.
7. Loose or Unsafe Electrical Outlets
If plugs wiggle or fall out easily, thatâs a sign of wear.
Easy Fix: Turn off power at the breaker. Remove the faceplate, tighten the mounting screws, and replace any damaged outlet. For recessed boxes, use plastic spacers to bring the outlet flush with the wall. If the wiring looks frayed or scorched, call an electrician immediately.
8. Non-Functioning GFCI Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters prevent shock in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Easy Fix: Press the âTESTâ and âRESETâ buttons monthly. If it doesnât click or reset, replace it with a new GFCI outlet. Always shut off the circuit breaker before doing any work.
9. Slow-Draining Sinks or Tubs
Soap scum, hair, and grease buildup are common causes.
Easy Fix: Remove and clean the drain stopper. Pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water, or use a drain snake to remove deeper clogs. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can damage pipes over time.
10. Gaps Under Exterior or Garage Doors
Gaps let in pests, cold air, and exhaust fumes.
Easy Fix: Measure the gap and install a rubber or brush-style door sweep. For uneven floors, use an adjustable threshold seal. In garages, this also helps prevent carbon monoxide migration into the house.
11. Peeling Paint or Bubbling Drywall
These are signs of moisture intrusion.
Easy Fix: Identify and repair the sourceâleaky roof, plumbing, or condensation. Once dry, sand the area smooth, apply a stain-blocking primer, and repaint. If drywall is soft or moldy, cut out and replace the affected section.
12. Sticking Windows
Humidity and dust can make windows hard to open.
Easy Fix: Clean the tracks and apply a thin layer of silicone spray or candle wax to the sliding surfaces. For wood windows, lightly sand swollen areas and repaint or reseal to prevent future sticking.
13. Loose Deck Boards or Railings
Loose fasteners create safety hazards.
Easy Fix: Replace missing screws or nails with corrosion-resistant deck screws. Inspect for soft or rotted boards and replace them. Apply a water-sealant or stain once repairs are complete to extend the life of the deck.
14. Dirty or Blocked Dryer Vents
A clogged vent restricts airflow and increases fire risk.
Easy Fix: Disconnect the vent hose, vacuum lint buildup, and clean the exterior flap or vent cap. For longer runs, use a flexible brush kit. Clean annually or more often for large households.
15. Poor Bathroom Ventilation
Trapped humidity promotes mold and paint damage.
Easy Fix: Run the exhaust fan for at least 15 minutes after showers, or install a timer switch to automate it. If no fan is present, crack a window or install one that vents to the exterior. Remember to test airflow by holding a tissue to the ventâif it doesnât hold, suction is weak.
16. High Indoor Humidity
Excess moisture invites mold and dust mites.
Easy Fix: Use dehumidifiers or increase ventilation by opening windows. Run bathroom and kitchen fans regularly and keep humidity between 40â60%. For basements, ensure downspouts discharge at least 6 feet away from the foundation.
17. Small Mold Spots
Early-stage mold is easy to stop if handled quickly.
Easy Fix: Mix three parts water to one part white vinegar and scrub affected areas. Dry completely afterward. Always wear gloves and a mask. If the mold covers more than 10 square feet or keeps returning, professional remediation may be needed.
18. Discolored or Metallic-Tasting Water
Mineral buildup or old plumbing is often to blame.
Easy Fix: Flush taps for a few minutes before use. Clean faucet aerators, and install a carbon block filter under the sink or on the faucet. If discoloration continues, have your water tested for metals or contaminants.
19. Overloaded Power Strips or Outlets
Too many devices on one circuit can cause overheating.
Easy Fix: Spread devices across multiple outlets, and unplug unused chargers. For high-demand appliances like space heaters, plug directly into a wall outlet instead of a power strip. Consider having a licensed electrician add dedicated circuits where needed.
20. Missing or Expired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Old detectors lose sensitivity and can fail to alert during emergencies.
Easy Fix: Test detectors monthly. Replace batteries every year and the entire unit every 7â10 years. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and on each floor, plus carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and any gas-burning appliances.
Final Thoughts
Most of these issues take just minutes to correct but can prevent serious damage, wasted energy, or health hazards down the road. A well-maintained home isnât only saferâitâs healthier, more efficient, and holds its value longer.
For bigger problems like mold, water quality, or indoor air testing, a professional inspection can help uncover whatâs hidden behind walls or under floors.
At Home Health Inspections, we believe awareness is the first step toward a healthier home environment.
Home Health Inspections 
Leave a comment