Home inspections are a vital part of the home buying or selling process. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or inspector, having a comprehensive home inspection checklist ensures every important detail is covered.

In this guide, we’ll provide a detailed home inspection checklist for inspectors, discuss what to look for in a home inspection, and even cover common mistakes that may lead to inspection failures.

What is the Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a detailed review of a property usually done when acquired or sold. This inspection is generally performed by a licensed home inspector who assesses the condition of the home’s major systems and structures. The goal is to identify any potential issues or necessary repairs that may affect the property’s value, safety, or livability.

During a home inspection, several key areas are typically examined, including:

Structural Elements: The foundation, roof, walls, and overall stability.

HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Plumbing and Electrical Systems: Inspecting pipes, water flow, electrical wiring, outlets, and fixtures.

Interior and Exterior: Windows, doors, flooring, walls, and the home’s exterior, including siding and gutters.
Appliances and Safety Features: Ensuring that major appliances function properly and safety features, like smoke detectors, are in place.

The inspector provides a detailed report of their findings, which helps the buyer make an informed decision about the property’s condition. If significant problems are found, it may lead to renegotiation of the sale terms or requests for repairs before the purchase is finalized.

Home inspections can also be useful for homeowners who want to maintain their property or are considering renovations. The inspector’s report can highlight areas that need attention before they become major issues. Call Henson Home Inspections for expert services.

Must read about Home Inspection History:

Why Do Home Inspections Matter?

Identify Hidden Problems:

A home inspection will find problems that might be overlooked with a quick walkthrough, such as plumbing system, electrical, or structural problems. These hidden problems might lead to costly repairs down the road, so early detection can save significant negotiated Better Terms.

Better Negotiation Leverage

If an inspection uncovers issues, buyers can negotiate with the seller to either lower the price or request repairs before finalizing the sale. This gives buyers more leverage in the transaction and helps them avoid unexpected expenses.

Ensure Safety

Home inspections can identify safety hazards, such as faulty wiring, gas leaks, or structural weaknesses, which could pose a risk to the residents. Taking care of these issues before moving in ensures a safe living environment.

Peace of Mind:

It gives you peace of mind knowing that a licensed professional has done an accurate home appraisal. It helps them understand the current condition of the property, allowing them to make a more informed decision about the purchase.

Plan for Future Maintenance:

Inspections can also provide insight into how well the home has been maintained and what upcoming maintenance tasks might be necessary. For example, an inspection might suggest when the roof will need to be replaced or when appliances are likely to wear out.

Home Inspection Checklist for Inspectors

A house inspection checklist for inspectors is required for an in-depth assessment of a property’s condition. It provides a detailed guide to assess various aspects of a home, ensuring that no critical areas are overlooked. A well-conducted home inspection gives the buyer or homeowner peace of mind and is vital in identifying necessary repairs or maintenance before making important decisions.

1. Roof

Is the roof in good condition? Inspectors should begin by assessing the roof’s overall condition, checking for signs of damage such as cracked or missing shingles, loose flashing, or any wear that might compromise the roof’s integrity. The roof is one of the most important aspects of a home to inspect, as it protects the entire structure from weather damage. A proper roof inspection can uncover issues such as leaks, wear, and aging materials that may require repairs or replacement.

Check for missing, cracked, or curled shingles.
Inspect roof flashing for damage or rust.
Examine gutters and downspouts for blockages or damage.

2. Structure

Is the home’s structural integrity sound? Inspectors should focus on the foundation, looking for any signs of cracks, shifting, or settling. The structure supports the entire structure, so any cracks or shifts can lead to significant structural issues. Inspecting the foundation helps identify potential problems early, which can save homeowners a lot of money on costly repairs.

Look for visible cracks or shifting in the foundation.
Check for uneven floors or walls, which may indicate settling.
Examine crawl spaces or basements for moisture or water damage.
Assess the condition of the foundation’s drainage system.

3. Exterior

What is the condition of the home’s exterior? The exterior inspection includes checking the siding for cracks, rot, or damage caused by weather conditions. Inspectors should ensure that all exterior materials, such as brick, wood, or vinyl, are in good condition and free of mold or mildew.

It’s also important to check the home’s gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems, ensuring that water flows away from the foundation.

Examine the siding for cracks, holes, or signs of rot.
Check windows for proper sealing and functionality.
Assess driveways, patios, and walkways for cracks or unevenness.

4. Plumbing

Is the plumbing system in good working order? During a plumbing inspection, water heaters, faucets, and pipelines are inspected for damage. Inspectors should look for leaks, corrosion, or signs of aging pipes. If the home has older plumbing, it’s essential to check for materials like lead or galvanized pipes that may require replacement.

Inspect water heaters for age, condition, and leaks.
Test water pressure and check for signs of clogs or slow drainage.

5. Electrical System

Is the electrical system safe and up to current codes? The electrical inspection should start with the main panel, checking for outdated breakers or signs of overheating. Inspectors should ensure the system is grounded correctly and that outlets, switches, and light fixtures are functioning properly. It’s important to test GFCI outlets, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas.

Check the electrical panel for rust, damage, or outdated wiring.
Test outlets and switches to ensure they work and are grounded.
Inspect for exposed wiring, faulty circuits, or overloaded panels.

6. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

An HVAC system inspection ensures that heating and cooling systems are working efficiently and that air quality is healthy. Inspectors check for issues that could lead to higher utility bills or potential breakdowns.

Check the furnace and air conditioning units for functionality.
Inspect ductwork for leaks or blockages.
Test thermostats to ensure accurate temperature readings.
Examine the air filters and ventilation systems for cleanliness.

7. Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are crucial for both the security and energy efficiency of a home. An inspector will check these components to ensure they are functioning properly and sealed to prevent drafts or water damage.

Check for visible damage such as cracks, broken seals, or damaged frames.
Test opening and closing to ensure proper function.
Examine weatherstripping and caulking for wear and gaps that may cause drafts.
Check the functionality of window locks and door handles to ensure they operate smoothly.
Check for signs of water damage or condensation between panes, indicating poor seals.

8. Insulation

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a home’s energy efficiency and comfort. It helps regulate indoor temperatures and prevents costly energy loss. An inspection of insulation ensures that it’s in good condition and adequately covers key areas.

Check the attic, walls, and basement for sufficient insulation material.
Examine insulation for moisture or mold, which can degrade its effectiveness.
Ensure that insulation is properly installed and hasn’t shifted or been damaged.
Look for signs of pest infestations in insulated areas, as animals can nest in these spaces.
Verify that there are no gaps in the insulation that could allow heat or cooling to escape.

9. Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most used areas of the home, and it should be inspected to ensure all appliances, plumbing, and electrical components are functioning properly.

Check appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, microwave, and dishwasher for proper operation.
Ensure ventilation systems such as range hoods are working effectively to prevent moisture buildup.
Test the electrical outlets to ensure they are functioning and properly grounded.
Check countertops and backsplashes for damage or wear.

Printable Home Inspection Checklist

Here’s a printable home inspection checklist you can use. It’s formatted for clarity and ease of use so you can check off items during your inspection.

Home Inspection Checklist

Roof

☐ Missing or damaged shingles
☐ Sagging areas or leaks
☐ Condition of gutters and downspouts
☐ Flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights
☐ Signs of moss, algae, or granule loss

Windows and Doors

☐ Properly sealed and no drafts
☐ Smooth operation (open/close easily)
☐ No broken glass or damaged frames
☐ Weatherstripping and caulking intact
☐ Check for fogging in double-pane windows

Exterior

☐ Cracks or damage to siding or brickwork
☐ Peeling paint or gaps in siding
☐ Condition of decks, porches, and railings
☐ Proper drainage away from the foundation
☐ Signs of mold, rot, or pest activity

Foundation and Walls

☐ Cracks in foundation or basement walls
☐ Uneven floors or sticking doors/windows
☐ Water stains or moisture in the basement/crawl space
☐ Visible structural shifts or bulges

Insulation and Ventilation

☐ Attic insulation is adequate and evenly distributed
☐ Crawl space is insulated and ventilated
☐ Attic vents are clear of debris
☐ Signs of moisture or mold in attics or crawl spaces

Kitchen

☐ Test all appliances (stove, oven, dishwasher, etc.)
☐ Check for leaks under the sink
☐ Proper ventilation (range hood/exhaust fan)
☐ All outlets near water are GFCI-protected
☐ No visible water damage around appliances

Bathrooms

☐ Proper drainage in sinks, tubs, and showers
☐ No leaks around faucets or under sinks
☐ Secure toilets (no rocking)
☐ Grout and caulking intact around tiles
☐ Test exhaust fans for proper airflo

Plumbing

☐ No visible leaks or corroded pipes
☐ Water pressure is consistent in all faucets
☐ Water heater free of rust or leaks
☐ Check the main water shut-off valve
☐ Drainage is fast with no backups

Electrical System

☐ Test all outlets and light switches
☐ GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages
☐ Electrical panel shows no corrosion or burning
☐ Exposed wiring is properly secured

Grounds

☐ No trip hazards in walkways or driveways
☐ Fencing, gates, and retaining walls are stable
☐ Trimmed trees and shrubs away from siding/roof
☐ No standing water or drainage issues

Structure

☐ No sagging floors or ceilings
☐ No signs of bowing or leaning walls
☐ Doors and windows align properly
☐ Beams and joists are free of rot or cracks

Inspection Notes

If you have any more remarks or worries, please use the space below:

This checklist can be easily copied into a Word document or printed as is for convenient use during inspections!

Final Thoughts:

Conducting a home inspection is a critical step in ensuring the safety, functionality, and longevity of any property. A thorough and well-documented inspection not only uncovers potential issues but also provides peace of mind to homeowners and buyers alike. By following this comprehensive home inspection checklist, inspectors can methodically evaluate every aspect of a property, leaving no detail overlooked.

Remember, a detailed inspection report empowers buyers to make informed decisions, gives sellers an opportunity to address concerns before listing, and ultimately contributes to a smoother transaction process. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or a professional inspector, the insights gained from a thorough home inspection can save time, money, and headaches in the future.

For trusted and professional inspection services, turn to Henson Home Inspections. As a Certified Home Inspection Agency, we are committed to providing top-notch service, detailed reports, and expert advice to help you safeguard your investment. Let us guide you through every step of the inspection process with confidence and care.

2025 Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist for Inspectors