Home Inspection Checklist

Foundation Check for cracks, settling, or water damage. Minor hairline cracks may be normal.

Exterior Walls Look for cracks, stains, damaged siding, or evidence of pests.

Grading & Drainage Ground should slope away from foundation to prevent water intrusion.

Driveway & Walkways Check for cracks, heaving, or trip hazards.

Garage Check door operation, floor condition, and auto-reverse safety feature.

Deck/Patio Inspect for rot, loose railings, and proper attachment to house.

Fencing Check condition and whether it's on property line.

Landscaping Trees/shrubs shouldn't touch house; check for dead trees.

Roof Age & Condition Ask about age. Asphalt shingles last 20-30 years. Look for curling or missing shingles.

Flashing Metal around chimneys, vents, and valleys should be intact.

Gutters & Downspouts Should be secure, clean, and direct water away from foundation.

Chimney Check for cracked mortar, missing cap, or damaged flue.

Attic Access Should be easily accessible with proper insulation around opening.

Attic Insulation Check depth and condition. R-38 to R-60 recommended for most climates.

Attic Ventilation Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends roof life.

Water Pressure Run multiple fixtures simultaneously to test pressure and flow.

Drain Speed All sinks, tubs, and showers should drain quickly without gurgling.

Toilets Flush each toilet. Check for leaks at base and tank.

Pipe Material Copper or PEX is ideal. Galvanized or polybutylene may need replacement.

Visible Leaks Check under sinks and around fixtures for moisture or staining.

Water Heater Check age (lasts 8-12 years), capacity, and for rust or leaks.

Main Shutoff Locate and verify the main water shutoff valve works.

Sewer/Septic Consider a sewer scope inspection. Check septic tank maintenance records.

Electrical Panel Check for proper labeling, adequate amperage (100-200A), no signs of overheating.

Panel Brand Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels are known safety hazards.

Outlets Test outlets with a tester. 3-prong grounded outlets should be standard.

GFCI Protection Required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and exterior. Test reset buttons.

AFCI Protection Required in bedrooms in newer homes. Prevents arc-fault fires.

Light Switches Test all switches. Check for flickering or warm switch plates.

Wiring Type Aluminum wiring (1965-1973) may need inspection. Knob-and-tube is outdated.

Furnace Age & Type Gas furnaces last 15-20 years. Check for rust, cracks, or unusual noises.

AC Unit Age Central AC lasts 12-15 years. Check for proper cooling and level installation.

Thermostat Test both heating and cooling modes. Programmable thermostats save energy.

Ductwork Check for damage, disconnections, or excessive dust. Flexible ducts should be supported.

Air Filter Check condition. A very dirty filter may indicate neglected maintenance.

Vents & Registers Check airflow from all vents. Significant differences may indicate problems.

Heat Exchanger Cracks can cause carbon monoxide leaks. Professional inspection recommended.

Walls & Ceilings Look for cracks, water stains, or signs of recent painting (may hide problems).

Floors Check for soft spots, squeaks, level, and condition of flooring materials.

Windows Open and close each. Check for drafts, broken seals (foggy glass), and locks.

Doors Check operation, fit, and weatherstripping. Sticking doors may indicate settling.

Kitchen Appliances Test all appliances if they convey. Check dishwasher for leaks.

Bathrooms Check caulking, tile condition, exhaust fans, and signs of water damage.

Basement/Crawlspace Look for moisture, efflorescence (white mineral deposits), cracks, or pests.

Smoke/CO Detectors Should be on every level and near bedrooms. Test functionality.

Signs of Pests Look for droppings, sawdust, damaged wood, or mud tubes (termites).