Top 5 Home Inspection Issues with Fort Smith Homes
1. Roofing Problems
Roof issues are one of the most common (and most costly) defects we encounter. In Fort Smith, the combination of hot summers, heavy rains, and occasional hailstorms can take a serious toll on roofing materials. Common problems include:
Missing or damaged shingles
Soft spots or sagging areas
Poor flashing installation around chimneys or vents
Improper drainage or clogged gutters
Fort Smith is known for its character, but it can be pretty noticeable in some areas that some homes have that “old charm”. If not addressed early, roof damage can lead to leaks, mold, and structural rot. For older homes, we often recommend a drone roof inspection, which provides high-resolution imagery without risking damage or personal injury.
Looking for more info? Learn about our Drone Roof Inspections.
2. Outdated or Faulty Electrical Systems
Many homes in Fort Smith were built before modern electrical codes were in place. We frequently find:
Two-prong (non-grounded) outlets
Aluminum wiring (a fire hazard)
Overloaded breaker panels
Exposed wiring in crawl spaces or attics
Improperly wired outlets or GFCIs missing near water sources
Electrical issues are not only inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Whether you’re buying or selling, a licensed inspector can help you identify whether the home’s electrical system is safe and code-compliant.
3. Foundation and Structural Movement
Arkansas soil is known for shifting over time, especially during wet/dry cycles. Foundation cracks are not uncommon in Fort Smith homes—especially older ones. Signs we look for include:
Cracks in the walls or ceilings
Sloping floors
Doors and windows that don’t shut properly
Visible cracking in the foundation slab or crawl space supports
Minor foundation settling is often no big deal, but large cracks or structural shifts could signal major problems. These issues can be costly to repair and should be assessed as early as possible.
4. HVAC System Concerns
Heating and cooling systems are essential for comfort and safety in Arkansas’ fluctuating climate. During our inspections, we often find:
Poor or infrequent maintenance
Dirty air filters and ducts
Leaking refrigerant lines
Malfunctioning thermostats
Units that are aging out of efficiency
We always recommend testing both heating and cooling modes, checking the air temperature at vents, and inspecting the ductwork in attics or basements.
Worried about HVAC issues? Consider scheduling a Home Maintenance Inspection to keep your systems in check year-round.
5. Moisture Intrusion and Mold
Humidity is high in this region—especially in spring and summer. That means moisture issues are extremely common and can lead to:
Mold growth in basements and crawl spaces
Rotted wood in attics or around windows
Water-stained ceilings or drywall
Poor ventilation in bathrooms or laundry areas
Mold can be a deal-breaker for buyers and pose serious health risks to occupants. Our team offers mold inspection services using air quality testing and thermal imaging to locate hidden sources of moisture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re purchasing a charming historic home near downtown Fort Smith or selling a suburban property in Van Buren, a professional home inspection is your first line of defense. Identifying these common issues early can save you thousands of dollars and prevent future headaches.
At Unified Inspection Services, we pride ourselves on providing thorough, easy-to-understand reports so our clients can make confident decisions. Our inspectors are InterNACHI certified, veteran-owned, and equipped with the latest technology.
Ready to schedule your home inspection? Contact Unified Inspection Services today and get peace of mind for your biggest investment.