If you’re buying, selling, or investing in Tampa real estate, the home inspection is one of the most important steps in the process. After helping thousands of clients navigate inspections over our combined 40+ years in the Tampa Bay market, we can confidently say this: inspection issues are common—but most are manageable when you know what to expect and how to address them.
As Tampa real estate experts, we’ve walked through everything from historic bungalows in Seminole Heights to waterfront homes in South Tampa and newer construction in Wesley Chapel. While every home is unique, certain inspection findings come up again and again in this market.
Here are the most common inspection issues we see in Tampa homes—and what they mean for you.
1. Roof Age and Storm-Related Wear
Roof concerns are easily the most frequent inspection issue we encounter. Tampa’s intense sun, heavy rains, humidity, and hurricane seasons take a toll on roofing materials.
Inspectors often flag:
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Aging shingles or tile roofs nearing the end of their lifespan
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Missing, cracked, or lifted shingles
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Improper repairs after past storms
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Flat roof drainage issues
For buyers, roof condition affects insurance eligibility and premiums. For sellers, addressing roof questions upfront—or having documentation ready—can prevent delays during negotiations.
2. Electrical Systems That Don’t Meet Current Standards
Many Tampa homes were built decades ago, and electrical systems haven’t always been updated.
Common electrical findings include:
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Outdated panels (Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels are big red flags)
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Double-tapped breakers
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Ungrounded outlets
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DIY electrical work
While not all of these are immediate safety hazards, they often become negotiation points. Investors, in particular, should budget for electrical updates when purchasing older homes.
3. Plumbing Issues from Aging Pipes
Plumbing concerns vary by neighborhood and era of construction. In older Tampa homes, inspectors frequently note:
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Galvanized or cast iron pipes
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Corrosion or reduced water pressure
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Slow drains or minor leaks
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Aging water heaters
Cast iron pipes, in particular, are a common Tampa issue. They don’t always fail immediately, but inspectors will often recommend further evaluation, especially for buyers planning long-term ownership.
4. Moisture, Mold, and Drainage Problems
Humidity is part of life in Tampa—and moisture-related inspection findings come with the territory.
Inspectors often point out:
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Minor mold or mildew in attics or HVAC systems
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Poor grading or drainage around the home
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Past water intrusion evidence
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Inadequate ventilation in bathrooms or attics
Most of the time, these issues are correctable. The key is distinguishing between normal Florida moisture concerns and signs of ongoing water damage—which is where local expertise really matters.
5. HVAC Systems Near the End of Their Useful Life
Air conditioning is not optional in Tampa—it’s essential. That’s why HVAC systems get a lot of attention during inspections.
Common findings include:
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Units that are 10–15+ years old
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Inconsistent cooling
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Dirty ductwork
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Poor maintenance history
Even if an HVAC system is still functioning, age alone can impact negotiations. We often help buyers and sellers agree on credits, repairs, or home warranties to bridge the gap.
6. Termite and Wood-Destroying Organism (WDO) Activity
Florida is termite territory. Nearly every inspection includes a separate WDO report.
Inspectors may note:
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Past termite treatment
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Wood rot or minor damage
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Conditions conducive to termites
Past treatment isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker—it’s actually very common. What matters is whether the issue is active and whether proper prevention measures are in place.
Our Advice After Decades in Tampa Real Estate
Inspection reports can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers or sellers. One of the biggest mistakes we see is assuming every flagged item is a “deal-breaker.” In reality, most Tampa inspection issues are part of owning property in this climate and region.
Our role as your real estate advisors is to:
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Help you understand what truly matters
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Identify which issues are negotiable vs. critical
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Leverage local contractors and specialists
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Protect your bottom line—whether you’re buying, selling, or investing
With the right strategy and guidance, inspections become a tool—not a roadblock.
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Tampa and want honest, experience-backed advice, Emeri and Joe Lewkowicz are here to help you navigate every step with confidence.
