Home Inspection Checklist
Whether you are ready to put your house on the real estate market or want to take stock of your property for your own peace of mind, here is a home inspector’s checklist that covers the basics.
What Should a Home Inspector Report?
If you are considering getting a home inspection, or are thinking of doing the job yourself, you might be concerned about the level of detail needed in the inspection report. A home inspector’s checklist usually makes note of items that need immediate attention. What needs immediate attention? Here are the questions that
professional home inspectors ask.
- Does anything present a health or safety issue?
- Is the house up to city housing codes?
- How is the roof holding up?
- Does the climate control work adequately (furnace/HVAC)?
- Is the foundation in good condition?
- Any drainage problems?
Now that you know what a professional will be looking for, it’s time to work through the checklist for your home inspection. A good home inspection works from the outside in, beginning with the general condition of the property and neighborhood before moving on to specific issues.
Checklist for an Exterior Home Inspection
Start at the front of the property and work your way around, taking note of the following items:
- Landscaping; including driveways, sidewalks and fences
- Foundation exterior; look for deep cracks, or signs of patching
- Exterior light and power
- Exterior structural components, including doors and windows, trim, siding and fascia
You may find the exterior home inspection easier if you clear each item on the list completely before moving to next. For example, check all of the landscaping items before inspecting the foundation.
Interior Inspection Checklist
When you move to the interior, begin in the basement of your home and work your way up. As with the exterior home inspection checklist, you may find the process works best if you check one item at a time.
- Fire safety; including extinguishers and smoke detectors
- Plumbing; including water heater, pipes, washer hook-ups and drains
- Electrical; from main panel to switches and outlets.
- HVAC; including duct work, condition of furnace or AC
- Roof and Attic; including flashing, gutters, framing and ventilation
- Appliances
If necessary, repeat the checklists for home inspection to check the condition of the garage. Start with the exterior, and when you move to the exterior, work your way up from the foundation slab.