Top 5 Issues We Commonly Find in Southern California Homes
By Elevate Inspections – Taking inspections to new heights
Southern California homes face a unique combination of coastal moisture, dry heat, aging housing stock, and evolving safety standards. At Elevate Inspections, we inspect hundreds of homes across the region each year, and while every property is different, certain issues appear consistently.
Whether you are a homeowner, buyer, or seller, understanding these common findings can help you avoid surprises, protect your investment, and maintain your home more effectively.
Below are the top five issues we most frequently identify in Southern California homes.
1. Improper Drainage & Downspouts
One of the most critical—and overlooked—issues
Improper site drainage is a leading cause of foundation movement, moisture intrusion, and long-term structural damage. We often find:
Downspouts that discharge directly at the foundation
Negative grading where soil slopes toward the home
Missing or disconnected downspout extensions
Pooling water near slabs, crawlspaces, or planters
Why it matters:
Water should always be directed away from the home. Chronic moisture near the foundation can lead to cracks, settlement, wood rot, and interior water intrusion—repairs that are far more costly than basic drainage corrections.
Inspector tip: Downspouts should discharge several feet away from the structure and grading should slope away from the foundation.
2. Missing or Improper Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
A major safety concern and common compliance issue
We frequently find homes with missing, outdated, or improperly located smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.
Current best practices generally require:
Smoke detectors inside each bedroom
Smoke detectors outside sleeping areas
Smoke detectors on every level of the home
Carbon monoxide detectors outside sleeping areas and on each level when fuel-burning appliances or attached garages are present
Why it matters:
These devices save lives. Many homes still rely on old battery-only units, expired detectors, or have gaps in coverage that reduce effectiveness during an emergency.
Inspector tip: Replace detectors every 7–10 years and test them monthly.
3. Loose Fixtures & Minor Hardware Deficiencies
Small issues that signal deferred maintenance
Loose or improperly secured fixtures are extremely common in SoCal homes, including:
Door knobs and handles
Sink faucets
Towel racks and bathroom accessories
Loose outlet or switch covers
Unstable or rocking toilets
Why it matters:
While these items may seem minor, they can indicate general wear, DIY repairs, or lack of routine maintenance. Loose toilets, in particular, can lead to leaks at the wax seal and hidden subfloor damage.
Inspector tip: Addressing small fixes early helps prevent larger repairs later and improves overall home functionality.
4. Missing or Non-Functioning GFCI Outlets
A frequent safety upgrade opportunity
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to reduce the risk of electrical shock and are required in specific locations.
Common GFCI-required areas include:
Kitchens (countertop outlets)
Bathrooms
Garages
Laundry areas
Exterior outlets
Within proximity to sinks or water sources
Why it matters:
We often find standard outlets where GFCIs should be installed, older GFCIs that no longer trip properly, or protected outlets that homeowners are unaware of.
Inspector tip: Test GFCIs monthly and clearly label protected circuits at the electrical panel when applicable.
5. Dirty, Missing, or Improperly Serviced System Filters
A simple maintenance item with big impact
Heating and cooling system filters are one of the most commonly neglected components we inspect.
We often see:
Filters that are excessively dirty
Incorrect filter sizes
Filters installed backward
Missing filters entirely
Why it matters:
Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, strain HVAC components, and degrade indoor air quality—especially important in Southern California where systems often run year-round.
Inspector tip: Most filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and environmental conditions.
Why These Findings Matter
Many of these issues are not deal-breakers—but they are important indicators of safety, maintenance, and future costs. A professional home inspection doesn’t just identify defects; it helps homeowners prioritize repairs and make informed decisions.
At Elevate Inspections, we go above and beyond to educate our clients, explain findings clearly, and provide actionable insights—not just a report.
If you are buying, selling, or maintaining a home in Southern California, we are here to help.
Elevate Inspections
Going above and beyond, exceeding your expectations.
