Although architectural details, wall and floor coverings, modern conveniences and many other factors are important in
buying decision, focus of this inspection is on structural/mechanical/electrical condition of property.The inspection is designed to give real estate agent or prospective purchaser a system to detect some of readily accessible major flaws or deficiencies in significant components and systems of a home. It is not designed to, nor does it profess to facilitate detection of all flaws, problems or occurrences that might exist in any given home.
To maximize time efficiency and to ensure all of major sections of home are take into consideration, we have developed a systematized approach to inspection. This is a simplified overview of systems that professional home inspectors use when they are inspecting a home.
To assist you in following system, we have provided a checklist that will guide you through your own inspection.
THE BIG PICTURE The first step in inspecting a home is to examine big picture for home. Notice area home is located in. Are there other homes of similar age and construction details relative to home you are inspecting? A comparison will give you a general idea of upkeep of home. Have there been significant modifications to exterior of building and if so, how is workmanship?
EXTERIOR Start at exterior front of house and work your way around house (clockwise or counter-clockwise) at a distance which allows you to view a complete face comfortably. On each face (front, sides, rear) start your visual inspection at top of structure and work your way down to ground and lot area. As an example, you would start at front and note roof and chimneys, gutters, fascia and soffits. Then, moving down exterior wall coverings (brick, wood, aluminum), noting windows, doors, etc. Examine any porches or decks down to foundation, then grade or slope of lot area, followed by any coverings, such as flower beds, walkways, interlocking brick, driveways, etc. Move closer to house, to examine more closely any details which may have attracted your attention, without skipping any items. Having completed front, move to side of house and start same procedure (roof to ground).
