G&E Home Inspection

7 Hidden Home Problems You Can’t See, How Thermal Imaging and Drone Roof Inspections Help

Introduction

Most expensive home problems don’t start with a dramatic leak or a smoking breaker panel, they start quietly, behind walls, under insulation, or on parts of the roof you can’t safely see from the ground.

That’s why modern inspections matter. At G&E Home Inspection, we combine thorough, system by system evaluations with tools like thermal imaging and drone roof inspections to help homeowners and buyers get clarity before surprises show up.

Below are 7 common hidden issues that a standard walkthrough can miss, and how a professional inspection can help you spot them early.

1) Moisture Intrusion and Small Leaks

A slow leak behind a wall or near a ceiling can create expensive repairs later, and it often won’t show obvious stains right away.

Thermal imaging can help detect hidden moisture leaks, giving you an early warning so you can address the source before it becomes mold or structural damage.

What to do next: If you’ve noticed musty odors, bubbling paint, or recurring humidity, schedule an inspection before you renovate or close escrow.


2) Heat Loss and Energy Waste

If your home feels drafty, or your AC works overtime, the issue might be insulation gaps, ventilation problems, or air leakage.

G&E Home Inspection includes attic and insulation inspections to check insulation levels, ventilation, and signs of moisture or pests.
Thermal imaging also helps identify heat loss you may not see at a glance.

Why it matters: Improving insulation and ventilation can reduce energy bills and improve comfort, especially in hot months.


3) Electrical Hot Spots and Safety Risks

Electrical issues are not always obvious, especially in older homes, remodels, or DIY work.

A proper electrical inspection checks wiring, circuit breakers, and electrical components for safety.
Thermal imaging can also help identify electrical hot spots, which can be a clue to overloaded circuits or failing connections.

Tip: If lights flicker, breakers trip, or outlets run warm, don’t wait.


4) Roof Issues You Can’t See From the Ground

Walking a roof is not always safe or practical, and many problem areas are hard to spot from a ladder.

G&E Home Inspection offers drone roof inspections, giving a detailed view of areas that are difficult to reach or see, while providing a safer, more comprehensive evaluation of the roof’s condition.

Common roof problems include:

  • Damaged or missing materials
  • Deterioration around flashing
  • Signs of pooling or drainage issues
  • Wear that may shorten roof life

5) Foundation and Basement Warning Signs

Small cracks and moisture patterns can indicate bigger issues, but they’re easy to overlook during a quick showing.

A professional inspection includes foundation and basement assessments, checking for cracks, water damage, and signs of foundation distress to protect the home’s stability.

Good to know: Not every crack is a disaster, but you want a trained eye to tell you what’s normal and what needs follow up.


6) Plumbing Concerns and Pressure Problems

Plumbing problems can be hidden until they become urgent, leaks under sinks, corrosion, or poor flow.

G&E Home Inspection performs plumbing inspections to check for leaks, rust, and proper function.
They also provide water pressure tests to identify pressure problems and potential leaks that can affect water quality and usage.

If you’ve noticed: banging pipes, weak flow, or inconsistent pressure, testing can help pinpoint what’s going on.


7) HVAC Performance and Efficiency Problems

HVAC can “seem fine” during a short visit, but still be underperforming, inefficient, or nearing failure.

G&E Home Inspection includes HVAC inspections, evaluating heating and cooling units for performance and energy efficiency.

Why it matters: HVAC repairs and replacements are major costs, catching issues early helps you plan or negotiate.


When Should You Schedule a Home Inspection?

A professional inspection is smart any time you need clarity or leverage, especially when:

  • You’re buying a home and want fewer surprises
  • You’re selling and want to fix issues before listing
  • You’re maintaining a home and planning repairs or upgrades
  • You want peace of mind about major systems, roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC

G&E Home Inspection serves Los Angeles and surrounding areas, and provides detailed evaluations designed to protect your investment.


Quick FAQ

Do I really need thermal imaging?
Thermal imaging is helpful because it can reveal issues like heat loss, moisture leaks, and electrical hot spots that may not be visible during a normal walkthrough.

What is a drone roof inspection?
Drone roof inspections provide a detailed view of hard to reach areas for a safer and more complete evaluation of your roof’s condition.

What areas do you serve?
G&E Home Inspection is based in Los Angeles and serves Los Angeles and surrounding areas.


Call to Action

If you’re buying, selling, or just want to understand the true condition of your home, book a professional inspection with G&E Home Inspection.

Phone: (323) 767-4215
Email: GEhomeinspectionllc@gmail.com