What to Check During a Home Showing:Six Detail Categories That Matter

Crown moulding gaps at wall or ceiling junctions

Some separation between crown moulding and the ceiling is normal due to seasonal wood movement. Gaps exceeding 3mm, especially when accompanied by paint bubbling or discolouration, are worth noting. They can indicate moisture intrusion from above — roof leak, bathroom overflow — or gradual structural settling.

Baseboard staining at floor level

Yellowing, blackening, or paint lifting at the base of baseboards — particularly in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens — is a common indicator of past or ongoing water intrusion. This could stem from plumbing leaks, failed exterior waterproofing, or basement moisture wicking upward. Do not dismiss fresh paint over these areas.

Door casing misalignment

Uneven gaps between door casing and the door frame, or visible twisting of the casing, can signal that the door rough opening has shifted. When multiple doors throughout the home show this pattern, it may point to foundation movement — a significant concern that warrants structural assessment.

Fogged or condensation between double-pane glass

Fogging between the glass panes means the hermetic seal has broken and the insulating argon gas has escaped. The window still blocks drafts but has lost much of its thermal efficiency. Replacing a sealed unit runs approximately $300–$800 per window. Multiple failed units in one home can add up quickly.

Sill staining and frame condition

Interior window sill staining — yellow, brown, or black marks — combined with soft or spongy wood indicates ongoing water entry. This is especially common in older homes where the exterior caulking has cracked or separated from the window frame. In winter, freeze-thaw cycles accelerate this type of damage.

Egress compliance in bedrooms

Ontario’s Building Code requires bedroom windows to meet minimum egress dimensions for fire escape. Windows that have been painted shut, blocked by furniture, or replaced with non-compliant units are a safety and insurance issue. Open every bedroom window during your showing.

Hardwood cupping and buckling

Cupping (edges raised higher than the centre) or buckling (boards lifting off the subfloor entirely) in hardwood floors are signs of significant moisture exposure. Check edges near kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior doors. Even after drying, wood that has been severely cupped or buckled rarely returns to flat — replacement is often required.

Soft spots and unusual flex

Walk deliberately across the floor and press down with your full weight in multiple spots. A spongy or springy feel in a localized area suggests subfloor rot or, in older homes, possible termite damage. This is distinct from the gentle flex that is normal in floating floor installations.

Tile hollow spots

Gently knock on ceramic or porcelain tile with your knuckle. A hollow sound means the tile has lost adhesion to the substrate beneath it. Spot repairs are possible for small areas, but widespread delamination typically requires full retiling — which includes removing existing tile, replacing the cement board, and labour.

What do gaps in crown moulding or baseboards indicate?

Small gaps between moulding and the wall or ceiling can indicate normal seasonal wood movement. However, gaps wider than 3mm, combined with paint bubbling or discolouration, may signal moisture infiltration or structural settling — particularly worth flagging for a home inspector.

Is a water softener included in the purchase price?

Not necessarily. Many water softeners in Ontario are rental units — the buyer inherits the lease upon closing. Always confirm ownership status in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale. Ask for the rental contract details including monthly cost and buyout option.

How can I tell if windows need replacing during a showing?

Look for fogging or condensation between double-pane glass layers — this means the sealed unit has failed and lost its insulating gas. Also check for water staining on window sills, difficulty opening and closing, and warped frames. Replacing a sealed unit typically costs $300–$800 per window.

What types of wall cracks are most concerning?

Horizontal cracks in concrete foundation walls are generally more serious than vertical ones, as they may indicate lateral soil pressure. Diagonal cracks near door and window corners can point to settling. Any crack wider than 6mm or accompanied by moisture staining warrants professional assessment.

Should I still worry about wall stains if the seller says the issue was fixed?

Yes. Ask for written documentation of the repair (contractor invoice, description of scope). During the home inspection, request that the inspector use a moisture meter in those areas. A cosmetic fix does not guarantee the root cause has been resolved.