Exterior

• Foundation and structural integrity – Inspecting for cracks or signs of settling, including in basements and garages.

• Sidewalks and driveways – Checking for damage or uneven surfaces.

• Windows and insulation – Ensuring proper sealing and energy efficiency.

• Gutters and drainage – Making sure water flows away from the home properly.

• Roof condition – Looking for missing shingles, leaks, or other damage.

Interior

• Attic and interior roof – Inspecting for leaks or structural issues.

• Walls, floors, and ceilings – Checking for unevenness, buckling, or cracks that may indicate structural problems.

• Water damage – Signs of leaks in basements, garages, or crawl spaces.

• Support structures – Evaluating beams, joists, and load-bearing walls for integrity.

Systems

• Electrical – Confirming outlets, switches, wiring, and panel capacity are safe and functional.

• Plumbing – Inspecting pipes, faucets, toilets, drains, and water shut-off valves.

• HVAC – Checking heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and fireplaces.

• Appliances – Verifying that included appliances are working properly.

Note: Home inspectors typically do not test for lead paint, radon, asbestos, mold, pest infestations, chimney build-up, or water/sewer conditions. If issues are suspected, they may recommend specialized inspections.

Hiring a Home Inspector

If you are working with a Realtor, ask for referrals—they often know reliable inspectors with a thorough track record. Your Realtor may even schedule the inspection for you. Referrals help ensure you hire someone meticulous who will provide a detailed report of any concerns.

A good home inspector will:

• Review the report with you in person or virtually.

• Provide photos of key findings.

• Answer any questions about potential repairs or maintenance issues.

After the Inspection

If the inspector finds significant problems, you may be able to negotiate with the seller. Options include:

• Asking the seller to complete necessary repairs before closing.

• Requesting a reduction in the purchase price to cover repair costs.

Having a thorough inspection protects your investment and gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re aware of any issues before becoming a homeowner.