Home Inspection Checklist: What to Expect from Your New Home Inspection

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Home Inspection Checklist: What to Expect from Your New Home Inspection

Touring potential homes can be overwhelming, and you don’t always get the most time to look around. Sure, that beautiful chandelier stood out to you. What else was hiding in that closet you glanced in?

You’ll want to know about those hidden cracks, leaks, and damages and if there are any. With this home inspection checklist, you will know what to look for yourself when going into a home and what you’ll get out of a professional inspection.

Home Inspection Checklist

There are seven major areas when it comes to home inspection. These essential groups will help keep you organized and informed before, during, and after the inspection.

Foundation

This is a major category when assessing a property because it can have real implications if it’s not in tip-top shape. An issue may not be the biggest deal at the moment, but these types of problems can fester into something much worse.

Here are the questions to ask yourself when it comes to the foundation:

  • Is there cracking or shifting at the base of the walls or ceilings?
  • Do you notice any soggy areas in the landscaping?
  • Does water drain away from the home correctly?
  • Does the visible foundation look to be in good condition?

Structure

Finding if there are any structural issues are another very important part of your home inspection checklist.

  • Do you notice any termite damage?
  • Is there evidence of rotten wood?
  • Is there any bowing happening in your windows or doors?

Exterior

The outside of your home protects the inside of your home. You’ll need to make sure that you and your family are protected.

  • Do you notice any standing water?
  • Are there cracks in your stucco?
  • Is the paint-stained, faded, or cracked?
  • Is there roof decay and how old is the roof?
  • Have there been repairs made to the roof?
  • Does anything look run down?
  • Are the gutters draining correctly?
  • Does the chimney appear to be in good condition?
  • Are there any issues with the siding?

Interior

Damage to the interior of your home can be much more serious than just a damper on the looks. It can also cost you a pretty penny.

  • Do you notice any smells?
  • Is the attic well ventilated?
  • Does any flooring need replacement?
  • Are the appliances included and are they in working condition?
  • Do all doors operate correctly?
  • Are all windows intact and operating properly?
  • Are the windows well sealed?
  • Is the home well ventilated?
  • Are there smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
  • Is there any staining or sagging on the ceiling?
  • Do you notice any cracks in the basement?
  • Are there any signs of pests?

Plumbing

With issues with the john, you’ll be calling John the plumber. Be sure to take note of any evidence of plumbing problems.

  • Are there leaks around the sinks?
  • Is there acceptable water pressure?
  • Does the water get hot and cold?
  • Do all toilets operate correctly?
  • Are there any leaky pipes?
  • Is there evidence of rust or damage to pipes?
  • Does the water get too hot? (125°F and up)
  • Are there indicators of water heater problems?
  • Are there leaks from the septic tank?

HVAC

Thes problems can be especially costly. If you fail to notice any issues involving HVAC, you’ll be sorry for it in those harsh weather months.

  • Does each room get the proper amount of airflow?
  • Does any of the equipment appear rusted?
  • Are there new air filters?
  • Does the home have any history of asbestos?
  • Do you smell gas?

Electrical

Electrical problems can leave you with more than just a dead outlet. These problems have been known to cause fires and much more serious damages.

  • Are all cables secured and adequately protected?
  • Where is the service panel?
  • Is there overheating with any of the breakers or fuses?
  • Are any splices exposed?
  • Have all electrical outlets been tested recently?
  • Are there enough outlets in each room?

Seller’s Disclosure

In several states, sellers are required by law to disclose any defects that they are aware of. You might also get more information about the neighborhood and your future neighbors.

Your agent can provide the seller’s disclosure to you after your offer has been accepted. In some states, you may be able to obtain it before you offer which will give you a major advantage when determining what you would be willing to pay for the home.

If you do receive a seller’s disclosure, you should pay close attention to it and never fail to consider it.

Why Hire a Professional

It can be tempting to do your home inspections on your own. However, it is more beneficial for you to get a professional home inspection.

These trained eyes can give you much more insight and accurate information about your home. They have processes and systems that will lead them to find much more than your average Joe.

If you are a buyer, you will likely want to acquire the home inspection instead of the seller. This allows you to choose your home inspection company and home inspection cost.

You’ll be much more at ease knowing that you chose a company that will be thorough. Plus, you know they work for you and not the seller.

You’re off to the Best Possible Start With This Home Inspection Checklist

Knowing that you will be the owner of a new home is always a wonderful and exciting feeling. With this home inspection checklist, you know you are off to the best start. Starting with a clean slate is always the best way to go into a new home.

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