Your Essential Home Inspection Checklist

 


Purchasing a home is one of the largest investments you will ever make. You are either a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, a home inspection is an essential process in your experience. It will uncover hidden defects, prevent expensive repairs, and provide you with peace of mind prior to closing the transaction.

In this blog, we'll walk you through a complete home inspection checklist so you'll know just what to inspect.

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is an in-depth review of the condition of a property, usually done after your offer is accepted but prior to closing. Performed by a qualified professional, this review examines the home's structure, systems, and components from the roof down to the foundation.

Though it's not unusual to hire an inspector, owning your own checklist will make you aware and enable you to ask the proper questions during the inspection.

Exterior Inspection Checklist

Begin with the homeowner's outside the property. The exterior of a house can show the signs of age, neglect, or structural damage.

  • Roof: Check for missing or broken shingles, sagging sections, or water damage.

  • Gutters and Downspouts: Make sure they're securely attached and draining away from the foundation.

  • Foundation: Check for obvious cracks, water seepage, or settling.

  • Siding and Paint: Check for peeling paint, warping, or pest damage.

  • Windows and Doors: Check seals, frames, and operation.

  • Garage and Driveway: Check the operation of the garage door and for cracks or oil spots on the driveway.

Interior Inspection Checklist

Upon entry, it is now time to examine the surfaces and structure of the house.

  • Walls, Ceilings, and Floors: Check for stains (i.e., indicating leaks), cracks, uneven surfaces, or warping.

  • Windows and Doors (Interior): Open, close, and lock safely.

  • Stairs and Railings: Check the stability and safety.

  • Fireplace and Chimney: Check for soot deposition, cracks, and adequate ventilation.

Systems Inspection

The most critical systems of a house are expensive to repair or replace, which makes it crucial to get a thorough inspection.

  • Plumbing: Check water pressure, check for leaks, and examine pipes behind sinks.

  • Electrical: Check the breaker panel, test the outlets, and check for old wiring.

  • HVAC: Check heating and cooling systems; request when they were last maintained.

  • Water Heater: Check for rust, leaks, or strange noises.

Kitchen and Bathrooms

These rooms are often the most used—and most expensive to renovate.

  • Appliances: If provided, check for operation.

  • Cabinets and Countertops: Check for water damage or loose fittings.

  • Sinks and Faucets: Turn faucets on to check pressure and drainage.

  • Toilets, Tubs, and Showers: Test for leaks, proper flushing, and water flow.

Attic, Basement, and Crawl Spaces

These regions are usually neglected, but they may conceal serious issues.

  • Attic: Check for sufficient insulation, proper ventilation, and infestation signs or mold.

  • Basement and Crawl Spaces: Inspect for wetness, water stains, cracks in the foundation, or sagging supports.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

Older houses can contain dangerous substances or safety deficits.

  • Mildew and Mold: Check and smell for evidence in wet areas.

  • Asbestos, Radon, and Lead Paint: Particularly in houses constructed prior to 1978—testing might be required.

  • Smoke and CO Detectors: Check that they exist and are in working condition.

  • Pest Infestation: Inspect for droppings, chewed wood, or evidence of insects.

Final Walkthrough Tips

Right before locking up, make a final walk-through to ensure the state of the home hasn't altered.

  • Test all systems and appliances once again.

  • Ensure that agreed repairs were made.

  • Bring your checklist, take pictures, and document anything out of the ordinary.

  • Don't be afraid to ask questions of your inspector—your sanity is important.

Conclusion

A good home inspection can save you thousands and enable you to make a confident purchase. Follow this checklist as your guide, or better still, take it with you when you visit homes or meet with your inspector. It's not only about identifying issues—it's about making an intelligent investment.