What Is Included in a Home Inspection?

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible components of the roofing system, identify observed defects, and assess conditions that may require repair, maintenance, or further evaluation. The inspection also helps provide an understanding of the roof's overall condition and signs of aging or deterioration.

Components Evaluated:

• Roof Coverings
• Flashings
• Roof Penetrations
• Roof Drainage Systems
• Chimneys and Skylights (when present)

Limitations: Roof inspections are limited to areas that can be safely accessed at the time of the inspection. Inspectors do not determine remaining roof life, guarantee against future leaks, or identify concealed defects that are not observable during the inspection.

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible exterior components of the home for signs of damage, deterioration, moisture intrusion, improper installation, and safety concerns. The exterior serves as the home's primary barrier against weather and plays an important role in protecting the structure from water-related damage and other environmental conditions.

Components Evaluated:

• Siding and Wall Cladding
• Exterior Windows and Doors
• Trim, Fascia, and Soffits
• Eaves, Gutters, Downspouts, and Diverter Trays
• Observable Foundation Areas
• Decks, Porches, Stoops, Steps, and Railings
• Driveways, Walkways, and Patios
• Exterior Electrical Components and Lighting
• Vegetation Affecting the Structure
• Surface Drainage Around the Home

Limitations: Exterior inspections are limited to readily accessible components and conditions observed at the time of the inspection. Inspectors do not move vegetation, personal property, stored items, or other obstructions that may conceal defects or restrict access.

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible components of the home's plumbing system for proper operation, leaks, defects, and safety concerns. The inspection helps identify conditions that may require repair, maintenance, replacement, or further evaluation.

Components Evaluated:

• Water Supply Lines
• Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Systems
• Water Heater
• Plumbing Fixtures and Faucets
• Water Pressure and Flow
• Observable Signs of Past or Active Water Leaks

Limitations: Plumbing inspections are limited to readily accessible components and fixtures. Inspectors do not determine the condition of concealed piping, underground plumbing, private sewer lines, septic systems, or water quality. The inspection is based on conditions observed and system operation at the time of the inspection.

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible components of the home's electrical system for safety, functionality, and signs of improper installation or deterioration. The inspection helps identify potential electrical hazards, outdated components, and conditions that may warrant repair or further evaluation by a licensed electrician.

Components Evaluated:

• Service Entrance Conductors
• Main Electrical Panel
• Subpanels
• Observable Wiring
• Representative Outlets and Switches
• Representative Lighting Fixtures
• Grounding and Bonding Systems

Limitations: Home inspections are non-invasive and limited to readily accessible components. Electrical panel covers may be removed when it is safe to do so. Inspectors do not test every outlet, switch, or light fixture, troubleshoot electrical problems, or evaluate concealed wiring located within walls, ceilings, or other inaccessible areas.

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible portions of the foundation and crawlspace for signs of structural movement, moisture intrusion, deterioration, and other conditions that could affect the home's performance or stability.

Components Evaluated:

• Foundation Type (Crawlspace, Basement, or Slab)
• Observable Cracks, Settlement, or Structural Movement
• Moisture Intrusion and Drainage Conditions
• Observable Evidence of Mold-Like Growth or Wood-Destroying Insect Activity
• Indications of Foundation-Related Concerns
• Accessible Plumbing, Ductwork, and Structural Components Within the Crawlspace or Basement

Limitations: Home inspections are limited to readily accessible areas. Inspectors do not perform engineering evaluations, determine structural adequacy, predict future movement, or identify concealed defects. 

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible portions of the attic, including insulation, ventilation, structural components, and other readily accessible systems. The inspection helps identify conditions that may contribute to moisture intrusion, energy loss, deterioration, or other concerns affecting the home's performance.

Components Evaluated:

• Roof Structure and Framing
• Insulation
• Ventilation
• Observable Evidence of Moisture Intrusion or Roof Leaks
• Accessible Ductwork
• Accessible Electrical Components
• Observable Evidence of Pest or Rodent Activity

Limitations: Attic inspections are limited to areas that can be safely accessed at the time of the inspection. Inspectors do not move insulation, personal belongings, stored items, or other materials that may conceal defects or restrict access.

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for basic operation, condition, and safety at the time of the inspection. The inspection helps identify observed defects, signs of deferred maintenance, and components that may require repair, servicing, or further evaluation.

Components Evaluated:

• Heating System
• Cooling System
• Condensate Drainage and Discharge
• Air Distribution Systems
• Accessible Ductwork
• Thermostats and System Controls
• Air Filters and General Maintenance Conditions

Limitations: Home inspections are not technically exhaustive evaluations of HVAC systems. Inspectors do not disassemble equipment, measure system performance to manufacturer specifications, or predict future service life. The inspection is limited to the system's observable condition and operation at the time of the inspection.

Purpose: To evaluate the visible and accessible components of the kitchen and bathrooms for proper operation, safety, moisture-related concerns, and general condition. These areas contain multiple plumbing, electrical, and ventilation components and are among the most frequently used areas of the home.

Components Evaluated:

• Cabinets and Countertops
• Sinks and Accessible Plumbing Components
• Sinks, Tubs, Showers, Toilets, and Faucets
• Built-In Appliances
• Water Flow and Drainage
• Accessible Electrical Components
• Ventilation and Exhaust Systems
• Flooring
• Caulk, Grout, and Other Moisture-Sealing Materials

Limitations: Inspections are limited to readily accessible components and conditions observed at the time of the inspection. Inspectors do not evaluate cosmetic preferences, concealed plumbing or electrical components, or the long-term watertight integrity of tile, grout, caulking, or other finish materials.

Purpose: To evaluate the condition and functionality of the visible and accessible interior components of the home. The inspection helps identify signs of water intrusion, damage, safety concerns, deferred maintenance, and other conditions that may affect the home's performance or livability.

Components Evaluated:

• Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
• Interior Doors and Windows
• Interior Stairs and Railings
• Closets and Cabinets
• Interior Trim and Fixtures
• Representative Switches and Receptacles
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Limitations: Interior inspections are limited to readily accessible areas and conditions observed at the time of the inspection. Inspectors do not move furniture, personal belongings, floor coverings, or stored items, and do not evaluate concealed defects located behind walls, ceilings, floors, or other finished surfaces.