Home Inspection Checklist When Searching For A Home
When looking for home a quality home inspection performed by an experienced professional is always recommended.
During your initial house hunting it is helpful to have a checklist to help you pick out a home that is less likely to have major potential problems.
This a simple checklist listing some of the things you may want to look for when searching for a home:
Check the Structure
You may wish to look carefully at the wall construction within the home as well as how the ceiling and the floors are in alignment with the roof and the foundation.
Evaluation of Exterior Conditions
Take a good look at the condition of the exterior of the home and note any problems in this area.
Check these items to the extent you are comfortable doing so paying attention to the:
Doors
Drainage
Driveways
Elevation
Exterior Electrical Outlets
Fences
Flashing on the roof
Framing
Gutters
Landscaping
Lighting
Roof Construction
Sidewalks
Trim
Walls
Windows
Evaluation of Interior Conditions
Check the condition of the interior of the home and note any problems in this area.
Perform a visual evaluation of the:
Attic- Including an examination of the framing, insulation, structure, and ventilation
Plumbing – Checking the operation of all of the faucets, showers, sinks, traps and toilets.
Components and Systems – Take a quick look at these systems to determine if there are any obvious problems you see with the air conditioning, chimneys, ductwork, fireplaces, furnaces, sprinklers, and water heaters.
Electrical System – Check the operation of the ceiling fans, make sure there are circuit breakers rather than fuses, check the exhaust fans, light fixtures, main panel for obvious damages and openings that should be sealed.
Appliances – All appliances that will remain in the home should be operated and tested for functionality and good working condition including, the dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwaves that are built-in, range, oven, and smoke detectors.
Evaluation of the Garage
Check the condition of the garage and note any problems in this area.
Are there any obvious problems with the
ceiling
entry
exterior
firewall
garage door
lights
opener
receptacles
roof
slab
vents
walls
windows
Summary
A quality home inspection performed by an experienced home inspector will include a detailed inspection plus a full report on all of the items noted that have problems and may need repair, replacement or corrective actions.