What Does a Home Inspector Look For? (With Checklist)

If you're buying a home, a home inspection is your best tool for peace of mind. But what exactly does a home inspector check? Is it just the roof and foundation — or does it go deeper?

Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, knowing what’s included in a home inspection checklist can help you feel more confident about your purchase. In this post, we’ll walk through what a certified home inspector evaluates and why each component matters.

🧰 The Full Home Inspection Checklist

A professional home inspector evaluates the visible and accessible systems and components of the home. Here’s what’s typically included in a general inspection:

🏠 Exterior

✔ Roof – Shingles, flashing, gutters, and chimney condition

✔ Siding & Trim – Cracks, rot, warping, or missing materials

✔ Windows & Doors – Seal failure, cracks, or improper installation

✔ Grading & Drainage – Signs of water pooling or negative slope

✔ Decks, Steps, & Railings – Stability and safety concerns

🧱 Structure & Foundation

✔ Visible Foundation Walls – Cracks, movement, or water intrusion

✔ Framing & Support Beams – Signs of sagging or damage

✔ Floor Levelness – Uneven or sloping floors

🛋️ Interior

✔ Walls, Floors & Ceilings – Cracks, stains, or water damage

✔ Windows & Doors (Interior) – Function, alignment, and safety

✔ Stairs & Railings – Secure attachment and spacing

❄️ HVAC (Heating & Cooling)

✔ Furnace & AC Units – Age, condition, and proper operation

✔ Ductwork – Insulation, cleanliness, and airflow

✔ Thermostat Function – Basic operation checked

🚰 Plumbing

✔ Water Heater – Age, temperature setting, and safety valve

✔ Visible Pipes – Leaks, corrosion, and material type

✔ Water Pressure – Fixtures tested for consistent flow

⚡ Electrical

✔ Service Panel – Proper labeling, amperage, and breaker condition

✔ Outlets & Switches – Grounding, GFCI/AFCI protection

✔ Wiring – Safety hazards or outdated systems (e.g., knob-and-tube)

🧰 Attic & Insulation

✔ Ventilation – Soffits, ridge vents, or gable fans checked

✔ Insulation – Type and adequacy

✔ Roof Penetrations – Signs of leaks or daylight intrusion

🧪 Additional Observations

✔ Mold or Moisture – Visible signs and moisture meter testing

✔ Pest or WDI Activity – Termite tubes or carpenter ant damage

✔ Safety Items – Smoke detectors, handrails, tripping hazards

🤔 Why This Matters When Buying a Home

Buying a home is the biggest investment most people make. A proper home inspection checklist protects you by uncovering:

🔹 Major repairs you may not be able to afford after closing

🔹 Safety concerns that could put your family at risk

🔹 Hidden defects that aren’t visible during a quick showing

🔹 Negotiation power to request repairs or price reductions

🔍 What a Home Inspector Doesn’t Do

Even the most thorough home inspection has its limits.

Inspectors don’t:

🚫 Open walls or ceilings

🚫 Move furniture or personal items

🚫 Predict future failures

🚫 Guarantee insurance or loan approval

For specialized evaluations (like sewer scopes, well inspections, septic inspections, water testing or mold sampling), additional services may be recommended.

✅ Why Choose Keystone Castle Inspections?

At Keystone Castle Inspections, we go beyond the basics to give you confidence in your investment. Here’s what sets us apart:

✔ Certified & Experienced Inspectors – InterNACHI-trained and fully insured

✔ Thermal Imaging Included – Detect hidden leaks and insulation gaps

✔ Fast, Easy-to-Read Reports – Delivered within 24 hours

✔ Additional Services Available – Mold, sewer scopes, well inspections, septic inspections, water testing, indoor air quality, and more

✔ Buy-Back Guarantee – Added peace of mind for buyers

📅 Ready to Book?

Schedule your home inspection today and move forward with confidence.

📞 412-204-6149

💻 keystonecastleinspections.com