What We Inspect During Our Home Inspections

We inspect all of the visible and readily-accessible exterior systems and components, including: exterior wall cladding/siding, flashing and trim; exterior doors; attached decks, balconies, stoops, steps, porches, and their associated railings; eaves, soffits and fascias where accessible from the ground level; walkways, patios, and driveways leading to the dwelling entrances.

We inspect site conditions that affect the structure, including: vegetation; grading; surface drainage; and retaining walls on the property when any of these are likely to adversely affect the structure.

We inspect all of the visible and readily-accessible structural system and components, including: foundation; floor structure; wall structure; ceiling structure; roof structure; posts,  beams and columns; joists; rafters and trusses; other framing; and ventilation of foundation areas.

We inspect all of the visible and readily-accessible heating and air conditioning systems and components, including: energy source; installed heating/cooling equipment; fuel storage and fuel distribution systems; vent systems, flues, and chimneys; ductwork and air distribution components; mechanical ventilation systems; heating/cooling system energy source(s); the presence of condensate over flow warning/shutoff devices.

We inspect all of the visible and readily-accessible plumbing systems and components, including: interior water supply piping and distribution systems including all fixtures, faucets, and components; drain, waste and vent systems, including all plumbing fixtures; plumbing related vent systems, flues, and chimneys; drainage sumps, sump pumps, and related piping; materials used for water supply, drain, waste, and vent piping; water heating equipment including the energy source; main water and main fuel shut-off valves.

We inspect all of the visible and readily-accessible interior components, including: interior walls, ceilings, and floors; steps, stairways, and railings; countertops and representative number of installed cabinets; garage doors; interior and exterior doors and windows and their operating locks and latches or other opening mechanisms; insulation and vapor retarders in unfinished spaces; fireplaces and solid fuel burning appliances; vent systems, flues, and chimneys; built-in household appliances.

We inspect all of the visible and readily-accessible garage components, including: floor, wall and ceiling surfaces; operation of all accessible conventional doors; vehicle door condition, operation and reverse mechanisms; accessible electrical receptacles including Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection; interior and exterior lighting.