Residential Home Inspection (Standards of Practice)

Inspection Details

Scope, conditions, and identifying information for the report.

• Property address *
• Date of inspection *
• Weather and approximate outdoor temperature at time of inspection *
• Was the home occupied and/or furnished during the inspection? *
• Utilities (electric, gas, water) were on and available for inspection *

Roof and Exterior

• Roof-covering materials were inspected from the ground, eaves, or roof surface *
• Roof covering shows no visible damage, missing material, or advanced wear *
• Flashings, penetrations, and gutters/downspouts appear intact and functional *
• Wall cladding, trim, and eaves are free of significant damage, rot, or deterioration *
• Grading slopes away from the foundation and drainage directs water away from the structure *
• Photo of any exterior or roofing deficiency

Structure, Foundation, and Basement/Crawlspace

• Foundation shows no significant cracking, movement, or moisture intrusion *
• Visible framing, floor, wall, and ceiling structure shows no signs of failure or deflection *
• Crawlspace/basement was entered or inspected to the extent readily accessible *
• No evidence of active water intrusion, standing water, or elevated moisture *

Electrical System

• Service entrance, main panel, and disconnect are accessible and properly rated/labeled *
• No double-tapped breakers, over-fusing, or exposed/improper wiring observed in the panel *
• A representative number of switches, receptacles, and light fixtures were operated and function *
• GFCI/AFCI protection is present where required (kitchens, baths, exterior, garage, laundry) *
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are present in required locations *

Plumbing and Water Heating

• Functional water flow and drainage confirmed at fixtures *
• No active leaks observed at visible supply and drain, waste, and vent piping *
• Water heater is properly installed with a TPR valve and discharge pipe *
• Fuel-gas water heater/appliance venting appears proper with no back-drafting *

HVAC and Interior

• Heating equipment operated using normal controls and produced heat *
• Cooling equipment operated using normal controls and produced conditioned air *
• Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors show no significant defects *
• A representative number of windows and doors were operated *
• Stairs, railings, and guards are present and structurally sound *