What items should I look for in a home inspection report?

After your home inspector completes their inspection, you will receive a comprehensive report on their findings. They will typically walk you through the items they find and explain what can be done to fix the issues. However, understanding what the inspector is looking for can help you ask questions to better understand the extent of the damage. The checklist below is a comprehensive overview of some of the main items to look for in a home inspection. 

Grounds And Exterior Structure:

  • Foundation appears in good condition with no significant cracks

  • No evidence of leaks from septic tank

  • Drainage away from the house with no standing water

  • Easily accessible crawl spaces to get to plumbing

  • Exterior walls appear straight with no sagging

  • Windows and door frames appear square

  • Siding appears in good condition with no cracks or damage

  • Bricks appear undamaged with no cracks in joints

  • Paint is not flaking or stained

  • Roof shingles are not missing or damaged

  • Gutters show no decay and drain properly

  • Chimneys appear straight and undamaged

  • Detached garage, shed, fence and deck appear in good condition with no rotted wood or evidence of termites

Basement:

  • No evidence of moisture

  • No evidence of water damage to above floor

  • Sump pump operates properly

Attic:

  • No evidence of staining from roof

  • Structure shows no damage or decay

  • Adequate ventilation through soffit vents and end louvers

  • Insulation is sufficient and installed properly

  • Electrical splices are contained

Bathrooms:

  • Visible plumbing under sink is in good condition and shows no signs of water damage

  • Adequate water pressure for hot and cold water at all fixtures

  • Tub, shower and sinks drain smoothly

  • Toilet flushes and fills properly

  • Toilet is stable, with no rocking or stains at base

  • No evidence of leaking around base of tub or shower

Kitchen:

  • Visible plumbing under sink is in good condition and shows no signs of water damage

  • Working exhaust fan vents to outside

  • Garbage disposal is operational

  • Water flow to sink is adequate and drains properly

  • Built-in appliances operate properly

Interior Rooms:

  • Floors, walls and ceilings appear straight and level without visible stains, cracking or damage

  • Doors open easily and latch properly when closed

  • Lights and switches operate properly

  • Adequate number of electrical outlets in each room

  • Heating and air conditioning vents in all rooms

  • Fireplace has no cracking and shows no staining

  • Fireplace flue has been cleaned and is lined

  • Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working and located properly

  • Stairway treads and risers are solid

Electrical Systems:

  • Wiring is in good condition

  • Service panel has normal capacity with cables attached correctly

  • Cables are secured and protected

  • No exposed electrical splices

Heating And Cooling Systems:

  • No gas odor

  • Air conditioning and heating operate well

  • Air filters are clean

  • Flues have no open seams and slow up to chimney connection

  • Cooling unit has no visible rust

Plumbing:

  • Visible pipes have no damage or evidence of leaks

  • Water heater shows no signs of rust

  • Water pressure falls within accepted range

  • Hot water temperature does not exceed 125-degrees Fahrenheit