Family’s dream home turns into nightmare with hidden damages; blame flawed inspection

WEAVER, Ala (WBMA) — Buying a home is likely one of the biggest investments you will ever make. Home inspections are seen as a way to protect your money and avoid a money pit. But beware even trained eyes can miss big problems.

Brandon Gallagher bought his first home in Weaver in Calhoun County for his growing family. But the excitement quickly turned to anguish. He discovered water damage in the basement. There were uneven floors inside, openings around the windows, water in the backyard from a drain and cracks in the foundation.

Gallagher asks how did his home inspector miss all this and more. “He wrote off the house as structurally sound. With how much wood rot there is, it is not,” remarked Gallagher. A foundation company confirmed his fears.

He estimates the home will need $70,000 worth of work on top of the $145,000 he paid for it at closing.

Gallagher says the inspection company did not honor its guarantee and the state licensing board dismissed his complaint.

“Blows my mind; truly a helpless feeling,” said Gallagher.

The report did list some of the problem areas and suggested buying a home warranty considering the age of the home. We spoke with a manager who said the guarantee is for 120 days and that the report did list issues.

The Better Business Bureau of Central Alabama’s Carl Bates offered advice to buyers. “Number one you should be there when the home inspection is done. You should be very picky with everything. Turn on every faucet, flush every toilet,” recommended Bates.

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Inspectors in general look for things they can see with the naked eye. Remember problems can be concealed with a coat of paint or patchwork. The air conditioning could work fine when they are there then stop a week later.

If an issue is cited, get a professional to come in. “This is a big investment. If it says issues with the electric box, my first call is to my electrician. If a leak or water damage is found, my first call is to a licensed plumber,” advised Bates. The same goes for the foundation.

Bates says in general they do not get a lot of complaints about home inspectors. Click here to see tips on hiring an inspector and what to expect.

Alabama’s Division of Construction Management licenses building inspectors. You can check a company’s license status or file a complaint by going to their website.

In the Gallagher’s case, the home was bought by the previous owner for $30,000 then sold months later indicating it was a flip. One that has left Gallagher with a lot of regrets.

Despite the dispute in this case real estate agents recommend inspections although in the current housing market some are skipping the inspection. The inspections run $400-$450.