A home inspection is your best protection against buying a money pit. Whether you're attending the inspection or reviewing the report, here's everything that should be checked—and what the findings mean.

🏠

Roof & Exterior

☐ Shingle condition (curling, cracking, missing)
☐ Roof age and estimated remaining life
☐ Flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights
☐ Gutters and downspouts (attached, draining away)
☐ Fascia and soffit condition
☐ Siding damage or deterioration
☐ Paint peeling or wood rot
☐ Chimney condition (cracks, leaning, cap)
Red flags: Sagging roof lines, multiple shingle layers, daylight visible in attic, active leaks
🏗

Foundation & Structure

☐ Foundation cracks (horizontal = concerning)
☐ Signs of water intrusion in basement/crawl
☐ Floor level (check with marble or level)
☐ Wall cracks (especially diagonal at corners)
☐ Doors and windows that stick
☐ Basement/crawlspace moisture or odors
☐ Sump pump presence and function
Red flags: Horizontal foundation cracks, stair-step cracks in brick, evidence of previous repair attempts
⚡

Electrical System

☐ Panel type and capacity (100-200 amp typical)
☐ Panel condition (rust, burning smell, warm)
☐ Wiring type (copper vs aluminum)
☐ GFCI outlets in kitchens, baths, outside
☐ Three-prong outlets (or proper grounding)
☐ Exposed or damaged wiring
☐ Double-tapped breakers (two wires on one)
Red flags: Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels, knob-and-tube wiring, aluminum wiring (fire risk), DIY electrical work
💧

Plumbing

☐ Pipe material (copper, PEX, galvanized, polybutylene)
☐ Water pressure at multiple fixtures
☐ Visible leaks under sinks
☐ Water heater age and condition
☐ Drainage speed at all fixtures
☐ Toilet stability and function
☐ Water stains on ceilings below bathrooms
☐ Sewer line condition (consider separate scope)
Red flags: Polybutylene pipes (prone to failure), galvanized pipes in older homes, water heater over 12 years old
🌡

HVAC System

☐ System age (typical life: 15-20 years)
☐ Heating and cooling function test
☐ Air filter condition
☐ Ductwork condition and insulation
☐ Thermostat operation
☐ Signs of rust or damage
☐ Heat exchanger cracks (furnace)
☐ Proper venting of combustion gases
Red flags: System over 20 years, unusual sounds, uneven heating/cooling, rust or corrosion
🏦

Attic & Insulation

☐ Insulation type and depth
☐ Ventilation (soffit and ridge vents)
☐ Signs of roof leaks or water damage
☐ Pest evidence (droppings, nesting)
☐ Bathroom fans venting outside (not into attic)
☐ Structural integrity of rafters/trusses

Additional Inspections to Consider

Sewer Scope ($100-300)

Camera inspection of sewer line. Essential for older homes with mature trees.

Radon Test ($100-200)

Recommended for all homes, especially with basements.

Termite/Pest ($75-150)

Often required by lenders. Checks for wood-destroying insects.

Mold Testing ($300-600)

If you notice musty odors or see visible mold.

Well & Septic ($150-500)

Required for homes not on municipal water/sewer.

Lead Paint ($250-400)

Homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint.

After the Inspection

1
Review the full report carefully

Don't just skim—understand every issue.

2
Prioritize issues

Safety issues > expensive repairs > minor issues.

3
Get repair estimates

For major issues, get quotes from contractors.

4
Negotiate with seller

Request repairs, credits, or price reductions.

Keep Your Inspection Report in NestorAI

NestorAI helps you track inspection findings and follow up:

  • Store your inspection report digitally
  • Create a checklist of issues to address
  • Track repairs as you complete them
  • Reference findings for maintenance planning
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