House Inspection Checklist: What To Look For

-


House Inspection Checklist: What To Look For

After conducting research and vetting options, you should have a professional home inspector you can rely on who knows what to look for in each part of the home. However, understanding what the inspector is looking for can help you ask questions to better understand the extent of the damage. This checklist is a comprehensive overview of what to look for in a home inspection. 

Grounds And Exterior Structure

  • Foundation appears in good condition with no significant cracks
  • No evidence of leaks from septic tank
  • Drainage away from the house with no standing water
  • Easily accessible crawl spaces to get to plumbing
  • Exterior walls appear straight with no sagging
  • Windows and door frames appear square
  • Siding appears in good condition with no cracks or damage
  • Bricks appear undamaged with no cracks in joints
  • Paint is not flaking or stained
  • Roof shingles are not missing or damaged
  • Gutters show no decay and drain properly
  • Chimneys appear straight and undamaged
  • Detached garage, shed, fence and deck appear in good condition with no rotted wood or evidence of termites

Basement

  • No evidence of moisture
  • No evidence of water damage to above floor
  • Sump pump operates properly

Attic

  • No evidence of staining from roof
  • Structure shows no damage or decay
  • Adequate ventilation through soffit vents and end louvers
  • Insulation is sufficient and installed properly
  • Electrical splices are contained

Bathrooms

  • Visible plumbing under sink is in good condition and shows no signs of water damage
  • Adequate water pressure for hot and cold water at all fixtures
  • Tub, shower and sinks drain smoothly
  • Toilet flushes and fills properly
  • Toilet is stable, with no rocking or stains at base
  • No evidence of leaking around base of tub or shower

Kitchen

  • Visible plumbing under sink is in good condition and shows no signs of water damage
  • Working exhaust fan vents to outside
  • Garbage disposal is operational
  • Water flow to sink is adequate and drains properly
  • Built-in appliances operate properly

Interior Rooms

  • Floors, walls and ceilings appear straight and level without visible stains, cracking or damage
  • Doors open easily and latch properly when closed
  • Lights and switches operate properly
  • Adequate number of electrical outlets in each room
  • Heating and air conditioning vents in all rooms
  • Fireplace has no cracking and shows no staining
  • Fireplace flue has been cleaned and is lined
  • Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working and located properly
  • Stairway treads and risers are solid

Electrical Systems

  • Wiring is in good condition
  • Service panel has normal capacity with cables attached correctly
  • Cables are secured and protected
  • No exposed electrical splices

Heating And Cooling Systems

  • No gas odor
  • Air conditioning and heating operate well
  • Air filters are clean
  • Flues have no open seams and slow up to chimney connection
  • Cooling unit has no visible rust

Plumbing

  • Visible pipes have no damage or evidence of leaks
  • Water heater shows no signs of rust
  • Water pressure falls within accepted range
  • Hot water temperature does not exceed 125-degrees Fahrenheit

Home Inspection Report Vs. Seller’s Disclosure Statement

A home inspection report is a document in which an inspector records the condition of the seller's house and cites any problems they find in their examination, such as foundation or safety issues that the buyer should be aware of. In contrast, a Seller’s Disclosure statement is a document that states any undisclosed details or problems with the house that the seller is aware of that may not otherwise be obvious.

The Bottom Line

You’re buying a house, you don’t want surprises. Surprise repairs lead to surprise expenses, which can easily put a damper on the excitement of your new home. By bringing in a qualified home inspector, you can limit the risks of future repairs and get the information you need to make the right decision for your future. To be prepared, we recommend printing this checklist and keeping it handy throughout the home inspection.



Roy Sawyer
956.588.9811

roysawyer@gmail.com

Search. See. Love...





Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The First step in buying a Home is NOT searching for a home.

-
Image
Starting the process by "just browsing" could be setting yourself up for heartbreak. Before you go looking for (and falling in love with) a home, you need a realistic idea of what you can afford, make sure your credit is in good shape, get pre-approved for a mortgage, and most importantly find a great agent to work with. I can help you with that last one, I'm the great agent. #rgvRoy #rgv956 #rgvhomebuying #thehelpfulagent #rgvhome #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowners #househunting #themoreyouknow #beprepared #investment #icanhelp #realestate #realestateagent
Read more

What's the worst part of Renting?

-
Image
  Listen, renting has many positives: you won't have to handle maintenance issues and you'll have the freedom to move within a year or two if needed. But owning a home allows you to enjoy greater stability, tailor your living space to your liking as well as build equity and long-term gains as the property appreciates over time. If you're ready to switch from renting to owning, give me a call - I'll be happy to walk you through your options. #rgvRoy #rgvhomes #rgvRealtor #rgv #rgv956 #956 #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #finances #mortgage #investment #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #happyhome #happyhomeowners #housingmarket
Read more

Have you filed for a Homestead Exemption?

-
Image
  What is a homestead exemption? Homestead exemptions are granted by the county appraisal district where the property is located. The exemption reduces a homeowner's property tax bill by removing part of the home's value from taxation. All Texas homeowners may receive a General Residence Homestead Exemption on the value of their property for school taxes upon application. Other taxing entities may also offer exemptions of some percentage of the home's value. Other exemptions are available to homeowners who are over 65 or disabled and require the same application process. Do you qualify? These requirements must be met to receive the exemption: You must reside at the home as your principal residence and not claim any other property as a homestead. Only individual homeowners (not corporations or other entities) may receive a homestead exemption. A homestead can be a house, condominium, or manufactured home. It can include up to 20 acres if the land is also owned by the h
Read more