INSPECT NW

General Inspection Items

• Structural Elements.
  Construction of walls, ceilings, floors, roof and foundation. Ask about horizontal cracks versus parallel cracks. Does the foundation seem secure? Does the roof leak? Has there been a fire in the attic? 
• Exterior Evaluation.
  Wall covering, landscaping, grading, elevation, drainage, driveways, fences, sidewalks, fascia, trim, doors, windows, lights and exterior receptacles. If the exterior is covered in siding, what is under it? 
• Roof and Attic.
  Framing, ventilation, type of roof construction, flashing and gutters. It does not include a guarantee of roof condition nor a roof certification. How many layers are on the roof? When will it need to be replaced? What is the average life expectancy of a roof? 
• Plumbing.
  Identification of pipe materials used for potable, drain, waste and vent pipes. including condition. Toilets, showers, sinks, faucets and traps. It does not include a sewer inspection. Ask whether the plumbing is copper and be careful of faulty joints such as those that can occur with Kitec plumbing. 
• Systems and Components.
  Water heaters, furnaces, air conditioning, duct work, chimney, fireplace and sprinklers. Usually a separate chimney inspection is performed if the inspector suspects there is a problem. Not all home inspectors will check sprinklers to make sure they operate correctly. 
• Electrical.
  Main panel, circuit breakers, types of wiring, grounding, exhaust fans, receptacles, ceiling fans and light fixtures. Ask if the electrical panel is on a recall list. Is it up to code? Does the electrical panel user breakers (preferred) or fuses (outdated)? 
• Appliances.
  Dishwasher, range and oven, built-in microwaves, garbage disposal and, yes, even smoke detectors. Washers and dryers are typically included as well if they remain with the home, but ask because those appliances are personal property. 
• Garage.
  Slab, walls, ceiling, vents, entry, firewall, garage door, openers, lights, receptacles, exterior, windows and roof. If the garage is attached to the home, it might also require a pest inspection, depending on the type of loan the borrower is obtaining. Does the garage have a firewall? Is the door to the garage from the house have self-closing hinges?
   
• Home Inspection Checklist Items Needing Service

Home inspection reports do not describe the condition of every component if it's in excellent shape, but should note every item that is defective or needing service. The serious problems are:

• Health and safety issues (within reason)
• Roofs with a short life expectancy
• Furnace / A/C malfunctions
• Foundation deficiencies
• Moisture / drainage issues