The Home Buyers Inspection Checklist

You did it! After months of searching for the right neighborhood, touring houses, and countless emails with your real estate agent, you found the house of your dreams! Your buyers have accepted your offer and now, it’s time to inspect your home to make sure you know exactly what you’re purchasing. But as a new home buyer, what exactly should you and your inspector be looking for when it comes time to deep dive into your prospective home, before making it official?

Remember, your inspector is key to this process and the goal is always to give them room to work, without being a distraction, while they’re getting an in-depth look into the house. However, keep in mind that you can always discuss specific asks with your inspector before they go in, as well as hire additional inspectors to look into specialty items. Don’t have an inspector yet? Your real estate agent will be able to recommend one that will be able to help.

Below is a closer look at the items your inspector should be looking at while looking closer at your prospective new home:

Exterior

Roof:

• No missing shingles

• No damaged shingles

• Gutters are in good working condition

• Chimneys are not damaged 

Home Exterior:

• Stucco has no cracks

• No bowing in exterior walls

• No chipped paint

• Walls are straight

• No cracks in any visible foundation

• Doors open and close, and have weather stripping

Not Typically included: 

• Pests

• Extensive look at fireplaces or chimneys

• Landscaping

Interior Home

Electrical:

• Check outlets

• Check wiring

• Electrical service panel

Plumbing:

• Look for leaky pipes

• Make sure hot water and cold water both work

• Check that drain pipes are working properly

• Ensure sinks are draining

• Adequate water pressure

HVAC:

• Good air flow

• A/C blows cold air

• Heater blows hot air

• Cooling unit isn’t in need of repairs

• Cooling unit doesn’t have rust

 Kitchen:

• Appliances work well

• Cabinets are in good condition

• Garbage disposal works well

• Dishwasher operates and drains

Bathrooms:

• Ensure shower and sinks drain

• Toilets flush and tanks fill properly

• Stable toilets

• Proper water flow

• No leaks around shower

• Any tile is stable and not loose 

Rooms:

• Doors open and close with no issues

• Switches and lights work

• Any baseboards and trim are secure

• Windows and doors work well

• Flooring or carpet is in good condition

• Walls appear to be straight

• Paint appears to be in good condition

• Any smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are working

Attic:

• Insulation is installed correctly

• No leaks or staining on the ceiling from the roof

Although this is far from an exhaustive list, by knowing some of the things your inspector will be looking for, you can better equip yourself for potential fixes that may need to be done, and have a better understanding of which items are non-negotiable on your end. Be aware that most of the items on this list will more than likely already be on your inspector’s radar.

 Be sure to note some of the items in the “Not Typically Included” section— you can talk to your realtor and inspector about ways to get those items reviewed by a secondary inspector, if necessary, to give you peace of mind about your home purchase.

Cheers to an amazing inspection!