Components of a Home Inspection

When you shop for a home whether you are looking for a fixer-upper, new construction, or one in move-in condition, there are generally essential components that make up a structure and should be inspected.

Grounds

Driveway & Walkways
Porches, Patios, Decks
Stoops & Steps
Railings & Fences
Landscaping
Retaining Walls
Outbuildings
Drainage & Grading

Roof

Shingles
Provide Approximate Age of Roof
Soffits & Fascia
Chimneys
Skylights
Vents
Flashing
Gutters & Downspouts

Exterior

Chimney
Gutters & Downspouts
Siding
Trim, Soffit, Fascia
Windows & Screens
Foundation
Doors
Caulking & Weatherstripping

Interior

Windows, Doors, Walls
Fireplaces/Stoves
Floors
Cabinets
Fixtures, Electrical Receptacles, Lights
Stairs & Railing
Heating Source for Each Room
Presence of Smoke Detectors
Presence of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Plumbing

Pipes, Supply Lines, Drains,
Faucets, Toilets, Tubs, Showers
Gas & Electric
GFCI Receptacles
Major Appliances
Plumbing, Drains, Hot/Cold Water
Floor, Wall, Ceiling Condition
Windows
Exhaust & Ventilation
Fixtures, Sinks, Cabinetry

Attic

Insulation
Structure of Roof
Framing Members
Sheathing
Any Signs of Leaks
Ventilation, Electrical Connections
Flashing, Venting, Issues From Roof

Garage

Concrete Slab
Drainage
Electrical
Garage Door, Garage Door Opener, Door Tracks
Doors, Windows
Safety Devices for Kids and Pets
Fire Protection

HVAC

HVAC Systems
Electrical Panels
Hot Water Systems
Plumbing
Distribution Pipes
Waste & Venting Systems

Electrical

Main Electrical Panel
Sub Panels
Grounding /Bonding
Service Wire Branch Wire
Receptacles
Switches

Structural Components

Foundation
Floor Structure
Wall Structure
Ceiling Structure
Roof Structure