Overcrowded Electrical Panels
Double-tapping breakers isn’t “efficient,” it’s dangerous. If you don’t know how to install electrics, hire someone to do it for you, you could be breaking many codes.
Railing Spacing Too Wide
Railing gaps bigger than 4 inches? That’s bad news for toddlers, and you need to be very careful if you have one of them in the house. Install proper spacing or add extra spindles.
Missing or Defective GFCIs
Yes, in some comic book movies electricity gives you superpowers. No, that doesn’t happen in real life. Install GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets in kitchens, baths, and garages.
Overloaded Joist Hangers
Wrong nails in hangers? Nope, that’s bad. Swap drywall screws for hanger nails or structural screws. Trust the hardware – it’s been around for a while.
Smoke Alarms
You literally cannot be too careful when it comes to smoke alarms. There should be one in each room, all connected to the same network, and they should be regularly tested.
DIY Stair Geometry
Stairs should rise and run evenly. If yours feel off in any way, reframe or adjust treads to get it up to code. Call a contractor if you need help.
Handrails Without Returns
Handrails should return into the wall, not poke out. When they do poke out, they can catch sleeves and bags and cause falls. Add a return fitting, especially if you have vulnerable people in your house.
Missing Exit Windows
Basements need a way out if the worst happens. Install an exit window so occupants can escape and firefighters can get in. No, it’s not nice to think about, but you need to be prepared.
Wrong Breaker Size
A 30-amp breaker on 14-gauge wire? That’s how you end up roasting marshmallows indoors. Match breaker size to wire gauge - it’s the easiest electrical fix you’ll ever make.
Improper Bathroom Venting
Steam belongs outside, not trapped in your attic creating mold. Extend that vent through the roof or wall, and let your bathroom actually breathe.
No Fire Blocking
Open wall cavities act like chimneys during a fire. Add 2x4 blocks or fire-rated foam to stop flames from sprinting through your house and threatening your life.
No Tempered Glass Near Wet Zones
Standard glass near tubs or showers? Very risky business. Swap it for tempered safety glass so you don’t create a hazard.
Improper Dryer Venting
Improper dryer venting is another hazard. There needs to be room for airflow, and if you don’t have that, it’s time to call someone in.
Missing Deck Flashing
Add flashing where the deck meets the house to keep moisture out and avoid a deck collapse incident. Yep, whole decks have collapsed because of flashing issues and people have been hurt.
Unsafe Stair Riser Heights
Stairs with varying riser heights are a lawsuit waiting to happen. Adjust framing or add trim to even them out.
No Grounding Electrode
Your home’s electrical system needs grounding. Missing rods? Add grounding electrodes to keep surges from turning your toaster into fireworks.
Missing Expansion Gaps in Flooring
Tight seams look nice - until the floor buckles, that is. Leave expansion gaps near walls, cover with trim, and let wood breathe.
Overnotched Joists
Cutting giant notches in floor joists isn’t “creative carpentry.” Reinforce with sister joists or metal plates before your floor turns into a DIY disaster.
Improper Slope on Drain Lines
Drain pipes need a gentle slope. Too flat, water stagnates. Too steep, solids lag behind. Again, call a contractor if this sort of thing isn’t your strong suit.
Deck Posts Sitting in Dirt
Wood posts buried directly in soil rot pretty fast. Add concrete footings and metal post bases to keep decks sturdy and safe.
Missing Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and you need to take it seriously. Install carbon monoxide detectors and remember that people have died from not having them.
Reversed Polarity Outlets
Hot and neutral swapped? That’s one surprise you don’t need. Use a $10 tester and rewire correctly.
Loose Toilets
A wobbly throne is not royal, and visitors won’t be impressed. Replace the wax ring, tighten the flange, and secure it before small leaks ruin your bathroom floor.
Wrong Nail Size in Framing
Tiny nails in big jobs? Not code, not safe. Swap for the proper length or use screws designed for structural work.
Missing Fire Separation in Garage
Garages need drywall barriers - fire-rated ones. Add proper gypsum to walls and ceilings. Cars burn hotter than you can imagine and you need to be alert.
Low Ceiling Clearance
Duck-your-head basements aren’t just uncomfortable - they’re often illegal. Minimum clearance is usually 7 feet. Lower the floor or raise the ceiling before selling.
Missing Anti-Tip Brackets on Ranges
One tug on an oven door shouldn’t topple the appliance. Install the bracket that came in the box - yes, the one you ignored.
Blocking Attic Ventilation
Stuffing insulation over soffit vents traps moisture. Use baffles to keep air flowing and prevent your attic from becoming a sauna.
No Kick-Out Flashing
Without kick-out flashing, rainwater sneaks behind siding and rots your sheathing. Add kick-out flashing where roof meets wall.
Improper Beam Support
Beams need full bearing, not just a resting spot. Add proper posts or hangers. Don’t let gravity win this round.
Wrong Venting for Water Heaters
Backdrafting gas heaters can fill your home with carbon monoxide – remember we already mentioned how dangerous that stuff is? Use proper vent pipe and slope it upward.
Exposed Wiring
Bare wires are not “rustic charm.” Run them in conduit, behind drywall, or in proper boxes. People really underestimate how dangerous random wires can be.
Missing Vapor Barriers
Moisture under flooring without a vapor barrier is a moldy time bomb. Install poly sheeting under slabs or crawlspaces to keep things dry.
Improper Stair Guard Height
Balcony guards lower than 36 inches? That’s an accident waiting to happen. Extend or replace railings to meet height requirements.
Unsafe Fireplace Hearths
Hearth extensions mean sparks can get on your carpet and cause a serious fire. Extend hearth pads at least 16–20 inches.
