
Your Quick Home Inspection Checklist
During the initial home tour, you should mark down specific areas of the house that you want your inspector to examine more closely. Use the checklist below to guide you as you take a look through the house.
Exterior
Roof/Attic:
o Are there shingles missing?
o Is there flashing and trim installed?
o Are there any signs of leaks?
o When will the roof need to be replaced?
Foundation:
o Are there visible cracks on the outside walls?
o Are there any trees near the foundation?
Yard:
o Does the drainage slope away from the house?
o Are there any soggy areas you can identify?
o Are the walkways and driveway in good condition?
Interior
Appliances: (If included)
o Do the appliances appear to be well-maintained?
o What are the ages of the:
Refrigerator? ___
Dishwasher? ___
Oven? ___
o Are there any leaks under the sinks (bathrooms and kitchen)?
Structural Elements:
o Has there previously been a fire in the home?
o Do the walls show vertical or horizontal cracks?
o Are there any stains on the floors, walls or ceilings?
Ventilation and Sub-Systems:
o Does the house smell? Can you identify the source?
o Do the heating and AC systems appear to be working?
o Does the water heater produce enough hot water?
o Is there a working exhaust fan in the kitchen?
Miscellaneous
Electrical:
o Do all the switches work?
o Is each outlet properly grounded?
o Do the ceiling fans work?
o Has the electrical panel been recalled?
Plumbing:
o Are there any unusual noises?
o Do the faucets and other fixtures have enough pressure?
Garage:
o Check all of the following elements for signs of damage or wear:
Slab
Walls
Ceiling
Vents
Garage Door
Lights
Openers
Windows
Roof
After the Tour
Hire a Home Inspector
After you’ve toured the house, you’ll need to hire a licensed home inspector to give the house a more thorough inspection.