Inspection Issues That Often Surprise Conway Home Buyers (And How to Avoid Them)

Buying a home in Conway is exciting, but I’ll be honest — the inspection process can bring a few surprises if you’re not prepared. Conway has its own set of common issues that show up time and time again, especially in older homes or properties that haven’t been maintained the way they should.

The good news? Most of these problems can be handled, and many are completely avoidable when you have the right local guidance.

Let’s break down the inspection issues I see the most here in Conway — and how to stay ahead of them.

Plumbing Surprises (Especially in Older Conway Homes)

While many of the newer communities in Conway have updated plumbing systems, some of the older homes downtown and in established neighborhoods may still have aging pipes, older water heaters, or outdated fixtures.

Here are the most common plumbing issues that pop up in inspections:

Slow drains or partial clogs
Older water heaters nearing the end of their lifespan
Leaks under sinks or behind walls
Polybutylene piping in older homes (a major red flag)

How to avoid problems:
Before you fall in love with a home, check the age of the water heater and ask about past plumbing updates. During inspections, we make sure your inspector checks not just visible pipes but also the main line and water pressure. Catching issues early can save you thousands — and a lot of frustration.

HVAC: The #1 Issue in the Conway Area

Because of our hot, humid summers, HVAC systems have to work overtime in Conway. It’s no surprise that HVAC problems are one of the most common issues flagged during inspections.

What we often see:

Units past their typical 10–12 year lifespan
Inadequate cooling or uneven temperatures
Dirty or neglected ductwork
Repairs that were done “just enough” to keep the system running

How to avoid problems:
I always tell buyers to look at the age of the unit right away. If it’s older, we’ll negotiate for repairs, a service call, or a credit toward replacement. And remember — even if it’s working today, an older unit will be something you need to plan for.

Roof Issues: Hidden But Expensive

Conway sees its fair share of heavy rain and summer storms, and roofs take the brunt of that weather. Roof problems are extremely common during inspections, especially on homes 15+ years old.

Typical issues in our area include:

Missing or lifted shingles from windstorms
Soft spots or moisture intrusion
Improper patch jobs
Aging shingles nearing replacement

How to avoid problems:
Before you even write an offer, I’ll take a good look at the roof condition from the ground and give you my honest opinion. During the inspection, we make sure the inspector checks attic ventilation, moisture, and previous repair areas. Roof issues aren’t always deal-breakers — but you need to know what you’re walking into.

Flood Risks: A Big Part of Living Near the Waccamaw River

Conway has several zones that require flood insurance, and even homes outside of designated flood zones can still see standing water after heavy rains. Buyers are often surprised by flood risks they didn’t know existed.

Here’s what we pay attention to:

FEMA flood zone maps
History of flooding in the neighborhood
Elevation certificates
Drainage around the home
The age and condition of the crawl space

How to avoid problems:
I’ll always pull the flood zone for you and talk through what insurance will look like. I’ll also point out any red flags — low-lying yards, poor drainage, or areas that have had repeat issues. A home can still be a great buy, even in a flood zone, as long as you understand the risks and insurance costs before you move forward.

Why Local Knowledge Matters Most During Inspections

Every market has its quirks — and Conway is no exception. Knowing what’s normal, what’s negotiable, and what’s a deal-breaker takes experience.

When you work with a local team, you get:

Clear guidance on what issues are common in specific neighborhoods
Help negotiating repairs or credits
Honest advice about long-term maintenance
A heads-up about anything the inspection won’t cover

My goal is always the same: make sure you’re making a smart, confident decision — with no surprises later.

Thinking About Buying in Conway? Let’s Do It the Right Way.

A great inspection shouldn’t scare you — it should protect you. With the right local team on your side, you’ll know exactly what you’re buying and how to move forward confidently.

If you’re planning a move in Conway, or you just want honest guidance before you start touring homes, I’m here to help.