Exterior Inspection

Roof
 Shingles: Look for curling, cracking, buckling, or missing pieces.
 Flashing: Check around chimneys, vents, and skylights for damage or rust.
 Gutters & Downspouts: Ensure they are securely attached, clear of debris, and direct water
away from the foundation.
 Moss/Algae: Note any significant growth that could indicate moisture retention.
 General View: Check for signs of sagging or uneven roof lines.

Siding, Trim, & Paint
 Material: Check for cracks, rot, decay, or insect damage (wood); dents or loose panels (vinyl);
cracks (stucco/brick).
 Paint: Look for peeling, flaking, or blistering paint.
 Caulking: Check seals around windows and doors for gaps or deterioration.

Foundation & Structure
 Visible Cracks: Note the location, size (width), and pattern of any cracks in the foundation.
 Moisture Signs: Look for efflorescence (white, chalky substance), staining, or water marks.
 Grading: The ground should slope away from the house to prevent water pooling.
 Vegetation: Ensure plants and trees are not too close to the structure.

Doors & Windows
 Condition: Check for cracked glass, damaged frames, and rotting wood.
 Seals: Feel for drafts and check the condition of weather-stripping.
 Operation: Do they open, close, and lock easily?

Drainage
 Downspout Extensions: Are they present and functional? (Should extend 5-6 feet from
foundation).
 Window Wells: Are they clear of debris and have proper drainage?

Decks, Porches, & Railings
 Structure: Check for rot, decay, or insect damage, especially where it connects to the house.
 Stability: Are railings and steps secure and wobbly-free?
 Surface: Check for splintering wood or cracking concrete.

Interior Inspection

Attic (If Accessible & Safe)
 Insulation: Check the depth, type, and for any signs of disturbance.
 Ventilation: Are soffit and roof vents clear and functional?
 Roof Deck: Look from underneath for signs of water staining, leaks, or rot.
 Signs of Pests: Look for droppings, nesting materials, or damaged wood.

Basement & Crawlspace
 Moisture: Check for dampness, standing water, or a musty odor.
 Foundation Walls: Re-check for cracks or bowing from the inside.
 Vapor Barrier: Is one present in the crawlspace? Is it intact?
 Support Posts & Beams: Look for signs of sagging, shifting, or rust.

Kitchen
 Sink & Faucet: Run water, check for leaks under the sink, and note drainage speed.
 Cabinets & Countertops: Look for water damage, warping, or structural issues.
 Appliances: Test basic operation of included appliances (oven, stove, dishwasher).
 GFCI Outlets: Test any outlets near sinks with the “Test” and “Reset” buttons.
 Flooring: Check for damage or unevenness, especially near the dishwasher and fridge.

Bathrooms
 Sinks, Tubs, & Showers: Run water, check for drainage issues, and look for leaks.
 Toilet: Flush to check for proper operation and check for leaks at the base.
 Ventilation: Is there an exhaust fan? Does it function and vent outside?
 GFCI Outlets: Test outlets for safety function.
 Caulking & Grout: Check for missing or deteriorating seals around tubs and showers.

Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Hallways
 Walls & Ceilings: Look for cracks, water stains, or evidence of past repairs.
 Floors: Check for squeaks, unevenness, or damage.
 Windows & Doors: Operate all interior doors and windows. Check for locks.
 Electrical: Test a sample of light switches and outlets.

✅ Laundry/Utility Area
 Washer Hookups: Check for leaks at water supply valves and drain hose.
 Dryer Vent: Is it a rigid metal duct? Is it securely connected and not clogged with lint?
 Water Heater: Note the age, look for rust on the tank, and check for a drip pan & pressure relief
valve pipe (should terminate near the floor).

Systems Inspection
✅ Electrical System
 Main Panel: Look for rust, burning smells, or amateur wiring (e.g., double-tapped breakers).
 Breakers/Fuses: Do they appear appropriately sized?
 Wiring: Note the type (e.g., copper is standard, aluminum may require special evaluation).
 Smoke & CO Detectors: Test them. Are they installed on every level and in each bedroom?

✅ Plumbing System
 Water Pressure: Turn on multiple faucets and flush a toilet to check for a significant pressure
drop.
 Water Heater: (As above) Check age, condition, and settings (should be set to ~120°F).
 Pipes: Identify the material (copper, PEX, CPVC) and look for signs of leaks, corrosion, or past
repairs.
 Drain Waste & Vent (DWV) System: Check for slow drains, which could indicate a blockage.

✅ Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
 Furnace/Boiler: Note the age, check the flame (should be blue, not yellow), and listen for
unusual noises.
 Air Conditioner: Note the age. Turn it on (if over 60°F outside) and feel for cool air coming from
vents.
 Air Handler & Ducts: Check for visible rust, debris, or disconnected sections in accessible areas.
 Filters: Are they clean and correctly sized?
 Thermostat: Test both heating and cooling functions.