The Only Home Inspection Checklist Youll Need Forbes Home

Even with a professional home inspector on the job, it can help buyers to have a home inspection checklist to keep on hand. When possible, it is also recommended that buyers are present for the inspection. Some states require that a buyers agent is present. Others do not allow the agent to be present. Your realtor should be able to give you insight on the regulations for your area.

As a buyer attending a home inspection, your job isnt to micromanage the professional inspector. Rather, being there allows you to ask follow-up questions so that you can have an understanding of issues before renegotiating with the seller.

Although home inspections are not nationally standardized, many professional home inspectors adhere to the American Society of Home Inspectors Standard of Practice. This checklist offers clarity about what is reviewed during the inspection.

The inspector should evaluate structural components, such as the foundation and framing. The purpose of these evaluations is to note the condition of structural elements (including ceilings, floors, walls and roofs) rather than to offer an opinion on the adequacy of the components. A structural engineer is better qualified to share a detailed opinion.

During the exterior inspection, the inspector should note the condition of wall coverings, exterior doors, attached decks or balconies, adjacent walkways or driveways and surface draining that could affect the structure. This inspection may not extend to fences, out-buildings or other landscaping elements unlikely to impact the home.

With the roof inspection, the inspector should examine the roof drainage system, flashing, skylights and chimney. In the report, the inspector should describe the roofing materials as well as the process they used to inspect the roof.

While examining the plumping system, the inspector should take a look at faucets, water fixtures, drains, waste systems, vent systems, water heating equipment, sewage ejectors and piping and related systems. The report should include a description of the plumping system materials, energy sources and valves. Generally, the inspection will not include an analysis of laundry machines, wells, water conditioners, landscaping irrigation systems and water pressure.

As a significant component of the houseas well as a safety factorthe inspectors review of the electrical system should be extensive and include an inspection of service drop, service conductors, cables and raceways, service grounding, interior service panels, conductors, overcurrent protection devices and a representative number of installed light fixtures and outlets.

The report should include a review of where main panels are located, the main wiring method, whether there are smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, and the amperage rating of service. This review may not extend to renewable energy systems, additional wiring systems and the efficacy of alarms.

So that they may describe the energy sources and heating system, the inspector should inspect installed heating equipment, vent systems (including flues and chimneys) and heat distribution systems. This does not typically include an inspection of heating systems that are not readily accessible, such as the interior of chimneys.

By inspecting readily openable access panels, the inspector should detail the condition of permanently installed cooling systems and distribution systems. This may not involve an inspection of renewable energy cooling systems, cooling supply balance and impermanent cooling systems, such as window units.

While examining the interior, the inspector should review the condition of walls, ceilings, floors, steps, stairways, railings, countertops, garage doors and major appliances. The inspector should also look at a representative number of installed cabinets, windows and doors. The interior inspection does not include floor coverings, wall finishes, window treatments or the operational features of inspected appliances.

To describe the insulation and vapor retarders in unfinished spaces, the inspector should examine attics, crawlspaces, the basement and exhaust systems. However, the inspector is not to disturb insulation.

To describe systems and components of fireplaces and fuel-burning appliances, the inspector should inspect chimneys, vent systems, fireplaces, stoves and fireplace inserts. This does not include an inspection of seals, gaskets, fireplace doors and components that are not readily accessible. The inspector is also not expected to assess the adequacy of heating elements.

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If applicable and requested at an additional fee for the inspection, the inspector may be able to examine pools, spas, decks (in more detail) and radon mitigation systems. If you want an inspection of any of these elements, address it with your inspector ahead of time.

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The Only Home Inspection Checklist Youll Need Forbes Home