Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and in East Texas, homes face a unique mix of soil conditions, climate challenges, and construction practices. A home inspection isn’t just about identifying issues—it’s about understanding the home you’re buying and knowing what questions to ask.
If you’re purchasing a home in Longview, Tyler, Marshall, Kilgore, Henderson, Mineola, or anywhere else in East Texas, these are the top 10 questions to ask your home inspector—and why they matter.
This guide is designed to help you get more than a checklist. It helps you get clarity, confidence, and context.
1. What are the most common issues you see in East Texas homes?
Homes in East Texas commonly experience:
- Foundation movement related to expansive clay soils
- Drainage challenges from heavy rainfall
- Roof wear from heat, storms, and debris
- Moisture-related conditions in crawlspaces and attics
- Workmanship inconsistencies in new construction
A qualified inspector should be able to explain patterns, not just isolated findings. Understanding what’s common versus what’s unusual helps you make better decisions without unnecessary worry.
Learn more about Our Inspections and how we’re ready to help with your next home inspection.
2. Are there any safety concerns that should be addressed first?
Not all inspection findings carry the same level of importance. Some items are maintenance-related, while others deserve priority because they affect safety.
Ask your inspector to clearly explain:
- Electrical safety observations
- Heating and cooling system concerns
- Water heater safety components
- Stairways, railings, and fall risks
- Attic, garage, or crawlspace access concerns
A professional inspector won’t use fear-based language—but they will help you understand which items matter most right now.
3. How does this foundation look for East Texas soil conditions?
Soil conditions play a major role in how a home performs over time.
When asking this question, your inspector should explain:
- The type of foundation (slab, pier-and-beam, or hybrid)
- How the structure appears to be performing
- Signs of movement or past repairs
- How drainage and moisture influence foundation behavior
This isn’t about predicting future movement—it’s about understanding how the home is responding to local soil conditions today.
4. What should I know about the roof’s condition?
Roofs are one of the most expensive components of a home, and they’re also one of the most misunderstood.
Instead of only asking about age, ask:
- What visible wear patterns are present?
- Are flashing and roof transitions properly installed?
- Are there areas where water concentrates?
- Does the roof design create drainage challenges?
In East Texas, heat, storms, and debris all contribute to how long a roof performs.
5. Are there any moisture-related concerns I should understand?
Moisture management is one of the biggest long-term considerations for East Texas homes.
Your inspector should explain observations related to:
- Crawlspace and attic moisture conditions
- Ventilation effectiveness
- Drainage and grading around the home
- Plumbing or roof-related moisture indicators
Understanding how moisture is managed is often more valuable than focusing on a single observation.
6. How does this home compare to others of similar age and type?
This question provides context, which is essential for informed decision-making.
A seasoned inspector can explain:
- What’s typical for a home of this age
- What stands out as better-than-average
- What may require closer monitoring
This helps buyers avoid overreacting to normal wear while still recognizing meaningful concerns. This is common information we discuss during our Q&A calls after our clients review their report.
7. What maintenance items should I plan for as a homeowner?
A home inspection isn’t just about defects—it’s also about ownership expectations.
Ask your inspector to help you understand:
- Routine maintenance items
- Seasonal tasks common in East Texas
- Systems that benefit from regular monitoring
- Items worth budgeting for over time
This turns your inspection into a practical roadmap instead of a one-time report.
8. Are there any new construction concerns I should be aware of?
Many buyers assume new construction homes don’t need inspections. In reality, new homes often have their own set of challenges.
Common new construction observations in East Texas include:
- Incomplete flashing details
- Drainage planning oversights
- Venting or insulation inconsistencies
- Finish and workmanship issues
Asking this question helps buyers understand that new doesn’t always mean flawless.
9. Can you explain the inspection report in plain language?
Inspection reports should be informative—not overwhelming.
A professional inspector should:
- Walk you through key findings
- Answer questions after the report is delivered
- Explain terminology clearly
- Help you understand what matters most
This step is often where buyers gain the most confidence.
10. If you were buying this home, what would you want to know?
This is one of the most valuable questions you can ask.
It invites your inspector to:
- Summarize the home’s overall condition
- Highlight items worth further consideration
- Share professional perspective without making decisions for you
It often leads to the most helpful, honest conversation of the entire inspection.
Why these questions matter in East Texas
Homes in East Texas are influenced by:
- Climate and humidity
- Soil behavior
- Construction trends
- Age and design of housing stock
Asking the right questions helps you:
- Avoid surprises after closing
- Plan realistically for ownership
- Understand what’s normal versus concerning
- Move forward with confidence
A home inspection is about understanding—not just identifying issues. Got questions? We’re happy to help however we can!
Final thoughts
The best home inspections happen when buyers and inspectors communicate openly. Asking thoughtful, informed questions helps you get the most value from your inspection and feel confident in your decision.