What Do Home Inspectors Check?
A complete guide to what a standard home inspection covers and what inspectors typically evaluate.
A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property's condition before a real estate purchase is completed. During the inspection, a licensed home inspector examines the major systems and structural components of the home to identify safety issues, structural damage, or maintenance concerns.
Understanding what inspectors check can help buyers better interpret inspection reports and make informed decisions during the home buying process.
What Is Included in a Home Inspection?
A standard home inspection typically evaluates the overall condition of the property, focusing on visible and accessible systems.
Most inspectors review the following areas:
- Exterior structure
- Roof condition
- Attic and insulation
- Plumbing systems
- Electrical systems
- Heating and cooling systems
- Foundation and structural components
- Interior features
Each of these systems plays an important role in the safety and functionality of the home.
Exterior Inspection
- grading and drainage around the foundation
- siding, trim, and exterior wall condition
- windows and exterior doors operation
- driveways, walkways, and trip hazards
- decks, porches, railings, and steps
- gutters, downspouts, and discharge location
Roof Inspection
- missing or damaged shingles
- roof leaks and water staining
- flashing damage around penetrations
- gutter condition and drainage
- roof ventilation indicators
- soft spots or sagging areas (visible from ground/attic)
Attic Inspection
- insulation coverage and depth
- attic ventilation and blocked vents
- roof sheathing stains or mold
- bathroom fan venting to the exterior
- signs of pests or damaged wiring
- visible framing issues or repairs
Plumbing Inspection
- water pressure and fixture flow
- drainage speed and clogs
- leaks under sinks and around toilets
- visible pipe materials and corrosion
- water heater age, venting, and leaks
- shutoff valves accessibility
Electrical Inspection
- main panel condition and labeling
- signs of overheating or improper wiring
- GFCI protection in required areas
- outlets and switches function and safety
- light fixtures and exposed wiring
- smoke and CO detector presence (as applicable)
HVAC Inspection
- furnace/air handler age and condition
- AC condenser condition and noise
- thermostat response and airflow
- filters and maintenance indicators
- ductwork connections and visible damage
- condensate drain and overflow pan
Foundation Inspection
- visible cracks in foundation walls
- moisture signs in basements/crawlspaces
- floor slope or settlement indicators
- support posts and beams condition
- perimeter drainage and downspout extensions
- crawlspace ventilation and vapor barriers (if present)
Interior Inspection
- walls and ceilings for cracks or staining
- floors for soft spots or unevenness
- windows and doors operation
- bathrooms for ventilation and leak signs
- kitchen built-ins basic operation (if included)
- stairs and railings safety
What Home Inspectors Do NOT Check
Although home inspections are thorough, inspectors do not evaluate every possible issue. A standard inspection usually does not include:
- Cosmetic issues
- Hidden structural components behind walls
- Underground plumbing
- Specialized environmental hazards
- Pest inspections (unless requested separately)
Specialized inspections such as mold testing, radon testing, or sewer inspections may be recommended depending on the property.
Why Understanding the Inspection Process Matters
Knowing what inspectors evaluate helps buyers better understand inspection reports and potential repair needs.
A home inspection can reveal hidden problems that may not be visible during a typical property showing. Identifying these issues early helps buyers estimate repair costs and make informed decisions before completing the purchase.
In some cases, inspection findings may also allow buyers to negotiate repairs or request credits from the seller.