Introduction:
Buying a home is a major investment – and a proper inspection is your best defense against hidden surprises. In fact, 88% of home buyers hire a home inspector as part of the process. Edmonton’s housing market presents its own set of common issues due to our climate and mix of older and newer homes. Even brand-new builds can have construction oversights.
1. Roof Damage and Leaks
Edmonton’s harsh winters and freeze-thaw cycles are tough on roofs. Shingles can crack, curl, or go missing, leading to leaks and water damage if not caught early. Ice damming (ice buildup along eaves) is another winter issue that can force water under the shingles. Signs of trouble: missing or deteriorated shingles, water stains in the attic, or icicles at the eaves. How to address it: Have the roof inspected annually and after major storms. Replace damaged shingles promptly and ensure proper attic ventilation to prevent ice dams. In some cases, adding insulation and sealing attic air leaks can also minimize freeze-thaw roof stress.
2. Poor Grading and Drainage
Improper yard grading and drainage can direct water toward the foundation instead of away from it. During Edmonton’s spring thaws and heavy rains, this often leads to basement leaks or seepage. Tell-tale signs include pooling water near the house, damp basement walls, or a musty smell downstairs. How to address it: Ensure the ground slopes away from your foundation (a drop of at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet is a common guideline). Extend downspouts 6 feet or more from the foundation to channel rainwater away. Installing or repairing eavestroughs (gutters) and keeping them clear of debris will also help. If basement leaks persist, consider consulting a foundation specialist or installing a sump pump/waterproofing system.
3. Foundation Cracks and Settlement
Thanks to clay-rich soils that expand and contract, foundation cracking is a frequent find in Edmonton homes. Not all cracks are structurally significant – small vertical cracks can be normal – but horizontal cracks or cracks wider than 1/4-inch can indicate movement. Symptoms: cracks in foundation walls or floors, doors and windows sticking, or uneven floors. How to address it: An inspector will differentiate minor shrinkage cracks from serious structural ones. Monitor minor cracks for changes. For larger or active cracks, it’s wise to consult a structural engineer. Solutions may include epoxy injections for crack repair or even underpinning for more severe settlement issues. Proactive steps like managing drainage (see above) can also reduce further settling.
4. Outdated or Unsafe Electrical Systems
In Edmonton’s mature neighborhoods (like older parts of Strathcona or Westmount), it’s common to find outdated electrical components. This might include old 60-amp services, fuse panels instead of breakers, or aluminum branch wiring used in the 1960s–70s. These antiquated systems may not meet today’s safety standards or power needs. What inspectors look for: knob-and-tube wiring (pre-1950s homes), aluminum wiring (1965–1975 homes) which can be a fire hazard at connections, lack of GFCI outlets in kitchens/baths, or DIY wiring issues. How to address it: If an inspection flags aluminum wiring, consider having an electrician perform remediation (such as pigtailing copper connectors or replacing outlets) to ensure safe connections. Upgrade any fuse boxes to modern circuit breaker panels. For older homes, a service upgrade to 100 amps or more may be recommended to handle modern appliance loads. Always have a licensed electrician evaluate and carry out electrical repairs for safety.
5. Plumbing Problems (Leaks and Materials)
Plumbing issues range from minor leaks to problematic pipe materials. Older homes might have galvanized steel pipes which corrode internally, or early plastic pipes like polybutylene (PB) which had failure issues. Newer homes aren’t immune either – we often find improperly sloped drains or leaky fixtures. Common issues: dripping supply lines, slow drains, signs of past water damage on ceilings (indicating possible plumbing leaks above), or outdated water heaters. How to address it: Fix active leaks promptly – a small drip under a sink can lead to big mold problems if ignored. If galvanized pipes are present and causing low pressure or rust-colored water, plan for a repipe with copper or PEX in the near future. Water heaters over 10-15 years old should be tested and possibly replaced for efficiency and reliability. An inspection will also check for proper plumbing venting and traps to prevent sewer gas – issues here should be corrected by a plumber. Investing in plumbing maintenance now can prevent an unexpected burst pipe later on.
6. Insulation and Ventilation Deficiencies
With our cold winters, insulation is critical – yet many attics are under-insulated or poorly ventilated in older homes. Inspectors often find thin attic insulation, gaps allowing heat escape, or blocked soffit vents. The result is higher energy bills and potential ice dam formation. What to watch for: uneven snow melt on your roof (can indicate heat leaking through), cold drafts inside, or attic frost in extreme cases. How to address it: Adding insulation in the attic (to about R-50 or more, which is ~15–18 inches of fiberglass, for our climate) can greatly improve comfort. Also ensure attics have unobstructed vents – a mix of soffit and roof vents – to let moisture out and keep the roof cold in winter. Similarly, check wall insulation in older homes; if walls are uninsulated, blown-in insulation can be added. Proper ventilation isn’t just for attics – bathrooms and kitchens should vent outside to prevent humidity buildup. An energy-efficient home isn’t just cozier – it also prevents moisture issues that arise from condensation and cold spots.
7. Moisture Intrusion and Mould
Moisture is a homeowner’s enemy – and in Edmonton the battle is often in basements and attics. Our climate’s freeze-thaw cycles and summer storms can introduce water into places it shouldn’t be, creating a breeding ground for mould. Inspectors use tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras to detect hidden damp spots in walls or ceilings. Signs of trouble: a musty odor, efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on basement concrete, soft or rotting wood, or visible mould in corners or cold areas. How to address it: First, resolve the water source. That could mean repairing foundation cracks, improving exterior drainage (as discussed), or fixing plumbing leaks. Next, remediate any mould growth. Small surface mould (like a patch in a bathroom) can often be cleaned with proper precautions (gloves, mask, bleach or fungicide). For larger infestations, professional mould remediation is recommended to ensure thorough cleanup and air filtration. Preventative measures include keeping indoor humidity around 30-50%, using dehumidifiers in damp basements, and ensuring attics have good airflow. Remember, a dry home is a healthy home – and a good inspection will pinpoint where moisture is sneaking in.
Conclusion:
These seven issues are among the most frequent findings in YEG Inspections’ home surveys, but the good news is that none of them have to be deal-breakers. The key is early detection and remediation. A quality home inspector will identify these problems and clearly explain their severity and potential solutions (often with photos in the report). As a buyer, this empowers you to negotiate repairs or plan upgrades. As a homeowner (or seller), addressing these common issues proactively will protect your property value and make your home safer and more comfortable.
Trend alert: In today’s market, many sellers even opt for pre-listing inspections to fix such issues before listing – avoiding surprises and making their listing more attractive. Whether you’re buying or selling, being aware of these common Edmonton home problems – and how to handle them – will ensure you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
