Which home inspection findings matter most?

A report with many maintenance items can be less concerning than one with a single major structural or active-moisture problem. The type of finding matters more than the count.

Spectora’s minor, moderate and major categories help organize priorities. Read the finding and recommendation as well as the label.

What affects priority?

• Consequence: what could happen if the condition remains?
• Timing: is action needed promptly or during routine maintenance?
• Extent: is the condition isolated or widespread?
• Active damage: is the problem ongoing, historical or uncertain?
• Safety: what is the exposure and how serious is it?
• Further damage: could leaving it lead to additional problems?

Minor, moderate and major

Minor findings often involve maintenance or limited defects. Moderate findings need attention beyond routine upkeep. Major findings involve conditions that deserve more significant attention.

A category is not a repair estimate. The recommendation explains whether repair, monitoring or further evaluation is appropriate.

Safety findings need context

A missing smoke alarm needs correction. A loose stair guard, extensive active moisture damage or severely deteriorated framing may involve a different level of concern. Each finding should explain the actual condition and next step.

Questions for the walkthrough

• What needs attention before the purchase moves forward?
• Is any damage active?
• Which findings need a specialist?
• What could not be evaluated?
• Which items belong on a maintenance list?

For costs or repair design, obtain a contractor’s quote or specialist evaluation. Eaton can clarify the reported condition and discuss whether a proposed repair appears to address it.