Home Inspector Checklist

When you find a house that interests you, it is wise to get a home inspection before signing on the dotted line. The results may affect your final offer, and you want to avoid unpleasant surprises.

A well-qualified home inspector can save you thousands of dollars and many headaches, particularly with older structures. Some states require that home inspectors be licensed. Especially in a state without licensing requirements, your home inspector should be a member of one of the professional associations in the field. As with construction in general, cheaper is not necessarily better.

A home inspection focuses on the condition of the structure and its systems. Key points of home inspections include:
 

Roof: 

1. Is the ridge level? 
2. Are the shingles worn?
3.  Does the roof sag between the rafters?
4.  Is the roof deck rotted?
5.  Are parts of the soffits/fascia loose and/or missing?
6.  Are any gutters loose/rusty?
7.  Is any flashing around the chimney or at the roof-wall joint bent/missing?
8.  Is the chimney masonry crumbling?
9.  Do the gutters slope towards the downspouts?
10.  Do the downspouts extend out from the foundation?

Exterior Walls:

1.  Do any exterior walls lean/bow/bulge?
2.  What are the age/material/condition of the siding?
3. Windows and Doors:
4.  Are the wood/paint/caulking in good shape?
5.  What are the age/type of the windows?
6.  Do the windows/doors open/shut properly?

Porches and Decks:

1.  What is the condition of paint/wood?
2.  Is there cracked/crumbling masonry? 
3. Are there settling/separation from the house?

Foundation:

1.  Is there any cracked/damaged/crumbling masonry?
2.  Are there any bulging/bowing?
3.  Are there any water traces?

Floors:

1.  Do the floors slope/sag?
2.  What is the condition of the floor coverings?

Walls and Ceilings: 

1. Does the plaster show cracks/stains/damage?
2.  Are the walls level horizontally/vertically?
3.  Are the ceilings level?

Bathrooms and Kitchen:

1.  What is the condition of the tile/caulking in the tub/shower area?
2.  Is the porcelain in the tubs/sinks worn?
3.  Do the faucets work? Are there any leaks? How is the water pressure?
4.  Are the vanities/cabinets/counters in good condition?
5.  Do the cabinet doors/drawers open/shut properly?

Basement:

1.  Are there any water traces? Dank odors?
2.  Are the basement floor/walls cracked?

Lot and Grounds: 

1. Are there any low spots by the foundation? 
2. Is the property lower than the street/neighboring properties?
3.  Does the grade slope away from the house?
4.  Are the walks/driveway cracked?

Electric and Plumbing:

1.  What are the types/styles/models/ages of the heating/cooling systems? 
2. What is the type of water pipe/drains? Distance underground? Condition?
3.  What is the capacity/age of the electrical service?
4.  Is the visible wiring in good condition?
5.  Have there been any upgrades? If so, what and when?

Note: If you want or need an inspection for toxic mold, lead paint, pests radon, or asbestos, you will need to call an inspector specialized in those areas. Your home inspector may be able to refer you.