Top 10 Important Home Inspection Checklist For Home Inspectors

If you are a professional home inspector, You should follow the standard home inspection checklist during the inspection. The inspection checklist helps to improve the accuracy of the inspection, possible to collect overall data on the building.

A home inspection is part of the House examination conducted by a professional and qualified Home inspector. In which, collection of all the structural and nonstructural conditions of the house.

Are you searching for the best guide? If yes this is the right place for you. Today this post will discuss all about Home inspection. You don’t need to visit another platform after seeing this article. I hope you will be satisfied.

This is one of the basic processes for schedule maintenance of the house, Buying and selling of a house, for the process of loans, etc. For that, the home inspector should follow the home inspection checklist for buyers.

let’s get started:

What is Home Inspection?

A home inspection is the process of home examination to know the home conditions as structural and nonstructural by a professional, qualified experienced Home inspector.

In the home inspection, an inspection can visually examination of the building component. The foundation to the rooftop component can be accessed by the home inspector. Such as foundations, Walls, Slab or Roof, Electrical, Plumbing, Painting, Flooring, Bathroom and Rooms Staircase, Furniture, etc.

Tools and Instruments for Home Inspection

I have been given some Important tools and instruments to perform a home Inspection. You have to know all of these instruments:

• Moisture Meter
• Camera
• Gas Detector
• Infrared thermometer
• Thermographic camera
• Thermometer
• Inspection Mirror
• Filler gauge
• Vernier caliper
• Pocket Knife
• Test light
• Measuring Tape
• Rebound hammer
• Mallet hammer
• Stud detector
• Verticality

Note: I have posted a separate blog post about the required tools and instruments for home inspection. So please visit the particular blog post.

Importance of Buyer Home Inspection

Home inspection is very important. I have listed some key points of why we perform home inspections before buying and selling a house. It is very necessary to check the conditions of the home/house. It helps both parties.

• Identifies potential Structural Problems and dangers.
• To make decisions for the buyers about the property conditions.
• Provides a basis for negotiation between buyers and sellers.
• Helps sellers address issues before listing their property.
• A routine walkthrough can uncover hidden problems that go unnoticed.
• It helps prevent costly surprises for buyers after purchase.
• Helps lenders assess the property’s value and condition.
• Increases transparency in real estate transactions.
• Contributes to the overall satisfaction and trust of both buyers and sellers.
• Some lenders or real estate may require it as part of the settlement process.
• Provides peace of mind to home buyers by verifying the property’s condition.
• Helps plan future repairs and maintenance for homeowners.
• Supports the formation of realistic expectations for property buyers.
• Provides a comprehensive overview of the various systems and components of the home.
• Helps buyers prioritize needed repairs or improvements.
• Understanding property maintenance can be a valuable educational opportunity for home buyers.
• Facilitates smooth real estate transactions by addressing concerns early in the process.
• Increases trust between buyers and sellers by promoting transparency.
• It can be important to uncover potential problems in older or previously owned homes.
• Acts as a risk management tool for buyers, reducing the possibility of post-purchase disputes.
• Certain types of financing or insurance may be required for these purposes.
• Helps prevent future legal issues related to unknown property defects.
• Can contribute to property longevity and value retention through proactive maintenance.
• Provides documentation of the property’s condition at the time of purchase for legal and insurance purposes.

Who pays for a Home Inspector?

There is no specific person to pay for the home inspector. This depends on you. If you are a house buyer or seller, House owner, process for the loans, Contractor, and Real estate persons who ever pay for the home inspector. So this is not a specific person. So anyone can pay for the home inspector.

But one thing in my 5 years of experience, in most cases the house owner, Buyers, and Contractors can pay for us. Mostly They want to inspect their home for different purposes.

Cost of a Home Inspector

This also varies according to the location, House owner, house condition, range of the property, and type of property. Commercial and residential inspection costs are different.

The average cost of a Home Inspector ranges between $280-$490 in the United States.

In most of the cases cost of a home inspector is charged as a square foot area of the property. Normally $300 is the basic cost of a Home inspector.

After paying the inspection charge a home inspector must follow the Home inspection checklist. So it is very important to pay for that person who inspects your property.

Note: Home Inspector provides you a detailed data, estimation, and decisions after paying the inspection charge. They have to decide which part of repair and which part is change.

How much does a special home inspection cost?

The price of a special home inspection depends on the location, type of property{residence or Commercial}, the scope of work, and the professional. Following is the list of some special home inspections and their average cost:

Asbestos testing: $230 – $800
Foundation inspection: $340 – $750
Mold testing: $300 – $990
Radon testing: $155 – $720
Termite inspection: $50 – $280
Sewer scope: $250 – $1,340

Home Inspection Checklist: What to Visualize for

This is an important topic of today’s blog post. In most of the cases home inspector can’t follow the home inspection checklist during the home inspection. But it is very necessary. So I have included over 10 home inspection checklists for Home inspectors.

Use of all the following mentioned home inspection checklists during the home inspection. To Collect all the building data components structurally and non-structurally. But, if you want to inspect for all the home inspection checklists you should pay for the high cost of a home inspector. Also requires highly experienced, skilled, Educated, and highly qualified home inspectors. So if possible you may hire ASHI certified home inspector in your area.

Ground And Exterior Surface

The ground and exterior are also important to the home inspection checklist should be followed by the inspector. I have included some important points that are inspected by the home inspector.

• Inspect the foundation for cracks or settlements.
• Check for water damage around the perimeter.
• Check the exterior walls for signs of damage or wear.
• Assess the condition of the siding or exterior cladding.
• Look for gaps or openings in exterior walls.
• Inspect the condition of the paint or finish.
• Check for proper drainage around the property.
• Check the grading to ensure water drains away from the foundation.
• Inspect the condition of driveways and walkways.
• Check for road and outdoor areas for travel hazards.
• Check the condition of the porch or deck.
• Check wooden structures for signs of rot or decay.
• Inspect the condition of stairs and railings.
• Look for any loose or missing external components.
• Check the condition of windows and doors.
• Inspect the door for proper sealing and functionality.
• Check the roof for damage or missing wood.
• Check the condition of the chimney and flashing.
• Inspect gutters and downspouts for blockages.
• Check the condition of the soffits and fascia.
• Check for proper ventilation in the attic.
• Inspect external electrical components.
• Look for signs of pest infestation in outdoor areas.
• Check the condition of outdoor light fixtures.
• Check the condition of the garage door and its components.
• Inspect the condition of fences and gates.
• Check for proper drainage around the property.
• Check the condition of any outbuildings or sheds.
• Inspect outdoor HVAC units for proper operation.
• Check for signs of water damage on decks or patios.
• Check the condition of outdoor plumbing fixtures.
• Inspect outdoor equipment for proper operation.
• Check for proper sealing around doors and windows.
• Check the condition of exterior vents and exhaust.
• Inspect the exterior landscape for potential problems.
• Look for signs of erosion or soil shifting.
• Check the condition of outdoor water features.
• Inspect outdoor play equipment for safety.
• Check the condition of outdoor furniture.
• Check for proper functioning of outdoor outlets.
• Inspect the condition of exterior stairs and handrails.
• Look for signs of mold or mildew on exterior surfaces.
• Check the condition of the exterior HVAC covers.
• Check the condition of the outside gas lines.
• Inspect outdoor irrigation systems for proper operation.
• Check exterior wood structures for signs of rot or decay.
• Check the condition of the external vents and air intake.
• Observe exterior signs and address numbers.
• Check for proper operation of external safety systems.
• Check the condition of outdoor utility meters.

Roof

The Roofing system is also an important home inspection checklist to be strictly followed by the inspector.

I have included some important points that are inspected by the home inspector.

• Check for visible signs of damage such as missing or broken.
• Inspect the overall condition of the roof covering material. Like upvc, aluminium, concrete, polycarbonate etc.
• Check to flash around chimneys, vents, and other roof openings.
• Look for evidence of leaks or water damage in the attic or roof.
• Check the condition of drains and downspouts.
• Inspect the soffit and fascia for any signs of damage or deterioration.
• Check the condition of the roof structure including trusses and rafters.
• Assess the alignment and condition of ridge vents or other ventilation systems.
• Check for the presence of moss or algae, which can indicate moisture problems.
• Inspect the condition of the sealant around the roof penetration.
• Assess the integrity of any skylights or roof windows.
• Check the condition of the chimney, including mortar and flashing.
• Check the ceiling for any signs of sagging or uneven areas.
• Inspect the condition of any roof-mounted equipment or satellite dishes.
• Assess the overall cleanliness of the roof surface.
• Look for signs of pest infestation, such as nests or droppings.
• Check for any loose or exposed roof nails.
• Inspect the condition of attic insulation and ventilation.
• Assess the condition of any solar panels or other roof additions.
• Check for proper sealing around roof penetrations.
• Inspect the condition of the drip edge along the eaves.
• Look for any signs of damage or deterioration in the roof valleys.
• Assess the condition of any metal components such as flashing or drip edges.
• Check the roof surface for any signs of excessive wear.
• Inspect the condition of any flat roof areas for signs of ponding water.
• Assess the condition of eaves and overhangs.
• Check for proper clearance between the roof and nearby trees.
• Inspect the condition of any vent pipes or exhaust vents.
• Look for signs of previous repairs and assess their quality.
• Verify that the roof is properly aligned and meets local building codes.

Interior Rooms

• Check the walls for cracks, water damage, or signs of structural problems.
• Inspect the roof for leaks, stains, or looseness.
• Check the floors for any unevenness, squeaks, or damage.
• Check all windows for proper operation and check for drafts.
• Inspect doors for smooth operation and ensure proper sealing.
• Check the condition of the baseboard for damage or gaps.
• Check the condition of any built-in shelves or cabinets.
• Test light switches and outlets for functionality.
• Inspect the condition of light fixtures and ceiling fans.
• Check for signs of pests, such as drops or damage.
• Test heating vents and air conditioning units for proper operation.
• Inspect the condition of any exposed ductwork.
• Check for proper insulation in walls and ceilings.
• Check the condition of any fireplaces and chimneys.
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Inspect the condition of interior doors and hardware.
• Check for proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Test faucets and drains for leaks and proper functioning.
• Inspect the condition of bathroom fixtures and tiles.
• Check for signs of water damage around the sink and tub.
• Flush test and fill the toilet for proper operation.
• Inspect the condition of the floors in the bathroom and kitchen.
• Check for signs of mold or mildew in damp areas.
• Check the condition of the interior paint and finish.
• Test the operation of any built-in equipment.
• Inspect the condition of any exposed wiring.
• Check for proper operation of ceiling-mounted fans.
• Inspect the condition of interior stairs and railings.
• Test the operation of any included window treatments.
• Check for odors or signs of poor indoor air quality.

Kitchen Room

The kitchen is also an important home inspection checklist to be strictly followed by the inspector. I have included some important points that are inspected by the home inspector.

• Check for signs of water damage around sinks and faucets.
• Inspect all kitchen appliances for proper functioning.
• Test the oven and stove burners for functionality.
• Look for leaks or damage in the plumbing under the sink.
• Check the condition of the kitchen flooring for any issues.
• Inspect the condition of the countertops for damage or wear.
• Test the operation of the garbage disposal.
• Check for proper ventilation in the kitchen.
• Inspect the condition of the kitchen cabinets and drawers.
• Test all light fixtures and switches in the kitchen.
• Check for signs of pest infestation in and around the kitchen.
• Inspect the condition of the kitchen walls for any damage.
• Test the functionality of all kitchen outlets.
• Look for signs of mold or mildew in the kitchen.
• Inspect the condition of the kitchen windows and seals.
• Check the alignment and condition of all kitchen doors.
• Test the operation of the dishwasher.
• Inspect the condition of the kitchen backsplash.
• Check for proper insulation in the kitchen.
• Test the water pressure and temperature in the kitchen sink.
• Inspect the condition of any kitchen vents or exhaust fans.
• Check for loose or damaged tiles on the kitchen floor.
• Inspect the condition of the grout in the kitchen.
• Test the operation of any kitchen fans or ventilation systems.
• Look for signs of wear or damage on kitchen appliances.
• Inspect the condition of any kitchen shelving.
• Check for proper sealing around the kitchen windows.
• Test the operation of any kitchen hood or range vent.
• Inspect the condition of the kitchen ceiling for damage.
• Check for proper labeling and functionality of circuit breakers related to kitchen appliances.

Bathroom

The Bathroom is also an important home inspection checklist to be strictly followed by the inspector. I have included some important points that are inspected by the home inspector.

• Check for any visible leaks or water damage around the sink, bathtub, and toilet.
• Test the functionality of the faucets, ensuring both hot and cold water work.
• Inspect the condition of the grout and caulk in the shower and around the bathtub.
• Verify that the toilet flushes properly and check for any signs of leaks around the base.
• Test the exhaust fan to ensure it is working effectively.
• Inspect the condition of the flooring for any water damage or loose tiles.
• Check the condition of the vanity, including the cabinet doors and drawers.
• Verify that all electrical outlets are functioning, especially those near water sources.
• Look for any signs of mold or mildew on walls, ceilings, or fixtures.
• Inspect the condition of the showerhead and ensure it is securely attached.
• Test the hot water temperature to ensure it reaches a comfortable level.
• Check for proper ventilation to prevent humidity buildup.
• Inspect the condition of the bathroom door, including hinges and locks.
• Test the functionality of any built-in storage, such as shelves or cabinets.
• Ensure all bathroom accessories (towel racks, soap dispensers, etc.) are securely mounted.
• Check for any loose or damaged tiles in the shower or on the walls.
• Inspect the condition of the bathroom mirror and ensure it is securely attached.
• Test the operation of any windows, ensuring they open and close smoothly.
• Look for any water stains on the ceiling, which may indicate a leak from above.
• Verify that all plumbing fixtures are properly sealed and free of any visible rust or corrosion.

Plumbing and Sanitary system

The plumbing and sanitary system is also an important home inspection checklist to be strictly followed by the inspector. I have included some important points that are inspected by the home inspector.

• Check all visible plumbing fixtures, pipes, and connections for leaks.
• Inspect water supply lines for signs of corrosion or damage.
• Plumbing pressure test in faucets and showers to ensure proper flow.
• Verify all toilets are properly flushed and check for leaks.
• Inspect the water heater for any signs of rust, corrosion, or malfunction.
• Check plumbing fixtures for proper venting to prevent sewer gas leaks.
• Inspect the sump pump (if applicable) for proper operation.
• Check for any signs of water damage around sinks, tubs, and showers.
• Visually inspect drain lines for obstruction or slow drainage.
• Test the functionality of all shut-off valves for sinks, toilets, and appliances.
• Inspect the condition of exposed piping for any signs of wear or damage.
• Check the condition of the Washing Machine hoses for leaks or bulges.
• Inspect dishwasher connections for leaks and proper drainage.
• Test the waste disposal for proper operation and check for leaks.
• Check the condition of the outer hose bib and ensure proper drainage.
• Inspect the water meter for any signs of leaks or abnormal readings.
• Verify that the septic system (if applicable) is in good working order.
• Check for proper insulation of pipes in exposed areas to prevent freezing.
• Inspect the condition of the water softener (if installed) and check for leaks.
• Make sure the plumbing system meets local building codes and regulations.
  

Electrical System

The electrical system is also an important home inspection checklist to be strictly followed by the inspector. I have included some important points that the home inspector inspects.

• Verify that all outlets are properly grounded.
• Check for any visible damage or wear on electrical wiring.
• Inspect the circuit breaker panel for proper labeling.
• Test all GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets.
• Ensure that there are no exposed electrical wires.
• Verify the functionality of all light switches.
• Inspect the condition of electrical panels for rust or corrosion.
• Test all smoke detectors for proper functioning.
• Check for any signs of overheating around electrical outlets.
• Inspect the condition of electrical conduit and wiring insulation.
• Test the functionality of all electrical outlets.
• Ensure that there are no overloaded circuits.
• Inspect the condition of electrical junction boxes.
• Test the functionality of all light fixtures.
• Verify the presence and proper operation of surge protectors.
• Check for any exposed or damaged wiring in the attic or basement.
• Inspect the condition of the main electrical service cable.
• Test the functionality of any installed electrical appliances.
• Check for proper clearance around electrical panels.
• Verify that electrical work meets local building codes.

Heating and Cooling system

The heating and cooling system is also an important home inspection checklist to be strictly followed by the inspector. I have included some important points that are inspected by the home inspector.

• Check thermostat operation and accuracy.
• Inspect and clean air filters, and replace them if necessary.
• Examine the condition of ductwork for leaks or damage.
• Test the heating system’s pilot and ignition system.
• Check for proper combustion and ventilation in the furnace.
• Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion.
• Test the blower motor for proper functioning.
• Verify the condition of the flue and venting system.
• Examine the insulation on refrigerant lines.
• Check for refrigerant leaks in the cooling system.
• Test the condensate drain for clogs or leaks.
• Inspect the outdoor condenser unit for debris and damage.
• Check the evaporator coil for cleanliness.
• Verify proper operation of the compressor.
• Test the pressure and temperature controls.
• Check the electrical connections for tightness.
• Inspect the insulation on refrigerant lines.
• Evaluate the overall condition of the heating and cooling equipment.
• Test the system’s response to thermostat adjustments.
• Verify the presence and functionality of any safety features.

Underground Water tank

During the water tank inspection, you should follow the following home inspection checklist. Most of the buildings have different types of water tanks that have different issues in the building. Like seepage leakage and plumbing issues.

• Inspect the water tank Plumbing system
• type of structure (brick/RCC)
• visibility of water leakage
• Inspect the condition of waterproofing
• Inspect the tank cover for proper sealing.
• tank wall crack or damage.
• cleanliness of the tank
• inspect the drainage around the tank.
• test the Water quality.
• inspect the condition of the inlet and outlets.
• Test the water Pressure

Basement

• Inspect the presence of moisture
• Inspect the presence of water leakage from walls and slabs.
• Visibility of vertical moving space
• obstacle etc.

Home Inspection Checklist PDF

All the mentioned home inspection checklists are very important in the building. So home inspection should follow all most details of the building component. It helps to give satisfaction to the home buyers and sellers.

FAQs for Home Inspection Checklist