Wild Things Found During Home Inspections

Ethan Martinez
Mar 19
2 min read

Home inspections are designed to uncover issues with a property - but sometimes, inspectors come across things that go far beyond a loose handrail or aging roof. Over the years, home inspectors have seen some truly wild (and occasionally unbelievable) discoveries.

If you’re buying a home, here are some of the strangest things that can turn up - and why they matter.

Animals Living in the Home (Uninvited)

One of the most common “wild” discoveries? Animals.

Inspectors often find:

Raccoons in attics
Birds nesting in vents
Squirrels chewing through insulation
Even snakes or bats in crawlspaces

These aren’t just surprises - they can cause serious damage to wiring, insulation, and structural components.

Why it matters: Animal infestations can lead to costly repairs and potential health concerns.

Hidden Damage Behind Walls

Sometimes what you can’t see is the biggest issue.

Inspectors have uncovered:

Fire damage covered with fresh drywall
Mold growth hidden behind cabinets
Structural cracks patched cosmetically

Why it matters: Cosmetic fixes can hide major safety concerns. A thorough inspection helps reveal what sellers might not even realize is a problem.

Dangerous DIY Electrical Work

This one shows up more often than you’d think.

Examples include:

Extension cords used as permanent wiring
Overloaded breaker panels
Improperly installed outlets

Why it matters: Faulty electrical work is a major fire hazard and one of the most serious issues found during inspections. Having a home inspector that was a prior electrician is a huge advantage in this arena!

Plumbing… Surprises

Inspectors sometimes find:

Toilets not actually connected to plumbing
Drains dumping water into crawlspaces
Active leaks hidden under flooring

Why it matters: Water damage can escalate quickly and lead to mold, rot, and expensive repairs.

Forgotten (or Abandoned) Items

Believe it or not, some homes come with unexpected “extras”:

Old tools or hazardous materials
Personal belongings left behind
Occasionally even safes or locked rooms

Why it matters: These can raise questions about property condition, safety, or even legal ownership.

What Buyers Should Take Away

While these stories are entertaining, they highlight an important truth:

A home inspection is your opportunity to uncover the unknown.

Even in well-maintained homes, surprises can happen. The goal isn’t to scare buyers - it’s to give you clarity and confidence before moving forward.

Colorado Springs Insight

In the Colorado Springs area, inspectors often see:

Wildlife intrusion due to nearby open spaces
DIY repairs in older homes
Hidden moisture issues from snow melt and drainage

Final Thoughts

The “wild” things found during home inspections make for great stories - but they also reinforce why inspections are essential.

A thorough inspection helps ensure there are no surprises after closing - and gives you the knowledge to make the best decision for your investment.