What Are the Most Common Inspection Issues in Pasadena Homes?
What are the most common inspection issues buyers find in Pasadena homes?
Answer:
The most common inspection issues in Pasadena homes involve plumbing, electrical systems, roofs, foundations, termites, and sewer lines. Many of these findings are typical for older homes and don’t automatically mean a bad purchase. May Kunka helps buyers understand which inspection issues are normal, which are costly, and how to respond strategically.
Pasadena Homes Are Full of Character—and Common Inspection Findings
Pasadena’s housing stock includes many homes built between 1900 and 1970. While these homes offer charm and craftsmanship, they also come with inspection findings that surprise buyers unfamiliar with older properties.
Understanding what’s common—and what’s serious—helps buyers stay calm, realistic, and confident during escrow.
1. Termite and Pest Findings
Termite activity is one of the most common findings in Pasadena.
What buyers often see:
Evidence of previous termite treatment
Minor wood damage
Active subterranean termites
Dry rot in exterior wood
This is very common and often manageable. Termite work ranges from minor spot treatments to more extensive repairs depending on severity.
2. Older Plumbing Systems
Many Pasadena homes still have:
Galvanized steel pipes
Cast iron drain lines
Mixed plumbing materials
Common issues include:
Reduced water pressure
Corrosion
Leaks at joints
Aging sewer connections
Plumbing upgrades are common in Pasadena and should be factored into long-term planning.
3. Electrical System Updates
Electrical findings are also frequent, especially in older homes.
Common inspection notes include:
Outdated electrical panels
Knob-and-tube wiring remnants
Ungrounded outlets
Non-GFCI outlets in kitchens and baths
While not always immediate hazards, these systems often need modernization over time.
4. Roof Condition and Age
Roof issues show up often during inspections.
Typical findings include:
Aging shingles or tiles
Deferred maintenance
Minor leaks or patchwork repairs
Roofs near end of life
Roof condition directly impacts insurance and future expenses, so it’s an important factor.
5. Foundation and Structural Observations
Pasadena inspectors often note:
Settlement cracks
Minor foundation movement
Previous repair work
Sloping floors
Many of these issues are common for older homes. The key is distinguishing cosmetic cracks from structural concerns.
Further evaluation may be recommended—but not all foundation notes are deal-breakers.
6. Sewer Line Issues
Sewer scopes are especially important in Pasadena.
Common findings:
Root intrusion
Older clay pipes
Cracked or offset joints
Partial blockages
Sewer repairs can be expensive, so identifying issues early allows buyers to plan or negotiate appropriately.
7. HVAC and Mechanical Systems
Older homes often have:
Aging furnaces
Inefficient air conditioning
Inadequate ducting
Outdated thermostats
While HVAC issues are common, they vary widely in urgency and cost.
8. Water Intrusion and Drainage Concerns
Pasadena homes may show:
Poor drainage around foundations
Signs of past water intrusion
Improper downspout placement
Grading issues
Water management is critical for long-term home health.
9. Windows, Insulation, and Energy Efficiency
Common inspection notes include:
Single-pane windows
Drafts
Limited insulation
Older doors
These affect comfort and utility costs but are often upgrades buyers plan over time.
10. Unpermitted Work or Modifications
Inspectors may flag:
Garage conversions
Additions
Bathroom or kitchen upgrades
Electrical or plumbing changes
Unpermitted work isn’t always unsafe—but it does require careful evaluation.
May helps buyers understand the implications before proceeding.
What Inspection Issues Are Not Usually Deal-Breakers?
Many buyers worry unnecessarily about:
Minor termite damage
Typical foundation cracks
Older but functional systems
Cosmetic wear and tear
These are common in Pasadena and often priced into the home.
What Issues Deserve Extra Attention?
Buyers should pay closer attention to:
Major foundation instability
Significant sewer failures
Extensive unpermitted work
Widespread electrical hazards
Severe water intrusion
These don’t automatically kill a deal—but they do affect pricing and negotiation strategy.
Pasadena Market Insight
In 2025:
Buyers expect inspection findings in Pasadena
Homes with updated systems attract stronger offers
Buyers are more strategic about repairs and credits
Sellers are more open to negotiation when issues are documented clearly
Understanding inspections helps buyers negotiate confidently.
How May Kunka Helps Buyers Navigate Inspections
May supports buyers by:
Preparing buyers for common inspection findings
Reviewing reports line by line
Explaining what’s normal vs. costly
Helping prioritize repairs
Negotiating credits or repairs when appropriate
Protecting buyers from overreacting or underreacting
Her guidance turns inspection reports into actionable plans.
Final Thoughts: Inspection Reports Are Tools, Not Roadblocks
Inspection findings don’t mean a home is “bad.”
They mean you’re learning how the home has aged—and what it needs.
With May Kunka’s expertise, buyers can interpret inspections accurately, negotiate effectively, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Want Help Reviewing a Pasadena Home Inspection?
Contact May Kunka for buyer support that helps you understand inspection findings and make informed decisions.