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Home inspection checklist
Home inspection checklist
For those paying for a home inspection, the following list of items are most commonly included in the inspection. However, a home inspection does not include many important details. Scan the list below for details.
Building exterior
Paint and/or siding Is the paint and/or siding in acceptable condition? Note anything insufficient.Roof and gutters How old are the shingles/roofing and how long until there needs replacing? Note any sagging rooflines or potential for leaks (cracks, gaps or rotting wood). Gutters should be in good repair, unclogged and appear to drain water away from the structure.
Foundation Look for cracks in a foundation. Sizable cracks may indicate settling which could be a problem. Ensure ground drains away from the foundation. Foundations should be high enough off the ground to mitigate chance of insect infestation.
Doors and doorways Check to make sure doors are aligned. Misaligned doors may be indicate settling. Locks should work correctly. Doors should seal tightly to save on heating/cooling expenses.
Windows Windows should freely open, close and be free of cracks/breakage. Check for rotting woods around window frame. Screens should be on windows or included with property.
Landscaping Trees are the typical issue for landscaping. Look for dead trees, dead tree branches and any trees too close to the house (potential for scraping shingles, clogging gutters or falling on the roof).
Grading and drainage Property should slope away from the structure. Note any places where water may not drain. Check proximity to streams, rivers and potential for flooding.
External buildings and structures Assess garages, carports and fences. Ensure doors properly open and close. Check for rotting, especially near ground level.
Miscellaneous Sidewalks and driveways should be assessed for cracks and potential for resurfacing. If applicable, check the condition of the propane tank.
Building interior
Ceilings For each room, are there signs of water damage? This is especially important for the top floor and any room underneath a kitchen or bathroom. Is ceiling paint peeling or is any ceiling sagging?Walls Are there any cracks or other deficiencies? Is paint or wallpaper peeling?
Floors and carpeting All floors should appear level. Check for carpeting/flooring issues which include loose carpet or damaged areas.
Electricity Obtain an electrical tester at a hardware store. Test all outlets to ensure they are have current and are firmly attached to the wall. Test all light switches.
Kitchen Test all appliances included in the sale. Exhaust fans should be checked to ensure they function properly. Water should quickly drain in the sink. Warm water should quickly come from the tap.
Bathroom Flush toilet multiple times to ensure water drains and toilet does not drip or remain running. Turn on faucets, looking for discolored water or failure of hot water to run. Make sure bathroom mirrors are not delimanating and porcelain sinks have no cracks.
The attic Ensure there is sufficient insulation in the attic. Make sure wires are updated. Look for signs of pests (droppings, bedding, etc). Make sure vents are properly covered to ensure pests can't enter.
The basement Check for excessive cracking in the floor and/or standing water. Note any water marks indicating previous water problems. Are floor joists solid? Check to make sure the sump pump works.
Furnace Check the furnace for a good flame (blue is best), a good fan and one that properly reacts to the thermostat.
Hot water heater Does the hot water heater work properly? Does the heater leak water, have rusty fittings or have water stains due to leakage?
Air conditioning Turn on/off air conditioning to ensure this works.
Stairways Check stairways for loose steps and other deficiencies.
Items not covered in a home inspection
Other tests needed Some tests are performed separately by licensed individuals. For this reason, a typical home inspection does not test for termites (and similar), asbestos, rodents, lead, radon, methane, radiation, formaldehyde, mold, mildew and fungi. If any of these appear to be a problem, some home inspectors may encourage you to conduct any of these tests.
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