Top 5 Red Flags Every Kansas City Buyer Should Know Before Their Home Inspection
- Bulldog Professional Inspection Services
- May 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 1
Buying a home in Kansas City is a serious investment. To protect it, you need to know what's happening behind the walls, under the floors, and above the ceiling.
At Bulldog Professional Inspection Services, we've inspected thousands of homes across the region and have seen the same five issues come up again and again. These aren't always deal breakers, but they are signs that deeper questions should be asked before moving forward.
Red Flag # 1: Horizontal Foundation Cracks
Some cracks in basement walls are normal, especially vertical ones caused by settling. But when cracks run horizontally, they usually indicate a different issue: lateral pressure from the outside soil pushing against the wall.
That stress can lead to bowing, shifting, or even structural failure over time. It's not always visible from the outside or apparent to a casual eye. But when we find horizontal cracks, we document them, explain the concern, and typically recommend following up with a structural engineer.
It's not always something to panic over, but it is something to take seriously before moving forward with a purchase.
Red Flag # 2: Water Turned Off in a Vacant Home
If the home is vacant and the water is off, we can't test the plumbing system. That means we cannot check for leaks, blockages, backups, and poor water flow that could cost thousands to fix.
This is more than an inconvenience—it's a barrier to doing a complete inspection. Plumbing is one of the most critical systems in any home. If we can't see it in action, we can't report on its condition.
At Bulldog, we do not inspect if the utilities are not turned on, pilot lights are lit, and water is flowing through the faucets before the inspection starts. If the water isn't on, we reschedule the inspection. This ensures you get an accurate, complete report, not guesses.
Buyers should always confirm that all utilities are on before inspection day. It's one of the simplest ways to avoid delays and extra costs.
Red Flag # 3: Hail Damage on Newer Roofs
Kansas City has its share of severe weather. Hailstorms can damage even newer roofs, sometimes enough to require full replacement.
Shingles can look intact but still have bruising, loss of granules, or cracks that allow water underneath. Over time, that leads to leaks, mold, and damage inside the home.
When it's safe, we walk the roof and look closely. We check for soft spots, divots, or missing material. If we see signs of damage, we document them with photos and include them in the report.
The good news is that hail damage to roofs is often covered by insurance. However, it needs to be identified during the inspection before closing.
Red Flag # 4: Recalled Electrical Panels
Some older homes still have electrical panels that were recalled years ago. The most common brands we see are Federal Pacific, Pushmatic, and Zinsco.
These panels may still function, but they're known for safety concerns. In some cases, the breakers fail to trip during an overload, increasing the risk of overheating and, in extreme cases, fire.
We don't inspect panels based on brand alone. We inspect how they're performing, how they're wired, and how they've held up. But if one of these recalled types is present, we point it out and suggest having it reviewed by a licensed electrician.
It's not about creating fear—it's about protecting you and your home with the right kind of information early.
Red Flag # 5: Older HVAC Systems
Heating and cooling systems don't last forever. Most furnaces and air conditioners have a useful life of about 20 to 25 years, depending on maintenance and usage.
Once a system reaches the 20-year mark, you're nearing the end of its expected life. It may still function, but its efficiency is lower, repairs could be more frequent, and cost more. Replacing a furnace or AC isn't cheap, and it's something buyers should plan for if the equipment is aging out.
During the inspection, we check serial numbers, verify the age of each unit, and evaluate its condition. If it's 20 years old or older, we'll note it in the report and walk you through what that could mean for your budget over the next few years.
These were the top five red flags every Kansas City homebuyer should know before the inspection.
They don't necessarily mean a home isn't worth buying. But they do mean you should look more closely, ask questions, and negotiate for repairs or credits before closing.
At Bulldog Professional Inspection Services, we inspect every home with the same calm, detailed, and honest approach and give you the facts to decide what's right for you.
If you're buying a home in Kansas City and want a top-rated home inspection you can trust, we're here to help.
Call Bulldog Professional Inspection Services today or schedule your inspection online.
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