What Does a Home Inspection Include? A Full Checklist

What a home inspector actually examines

A standard home inspection is a visual examination of the home's major systems and components. Inspectors follow guidelines set by professional organizations like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) or InterNACHI, which define exactly what must be checked. The goal is to identify material defects, safety hazards, and items that need repair or monitoring. Use our home inspection cost calculator to see what a thorough inspection typically costs in your area.

Structural components

• Foundation. The inspector looks for cracks, settling, water intrusion, and structural movement from inside the basement or crawlspace and by examining the exterior grade.
• Framing and walls. Load-bearing walls, floor joists, and roof rafters are examined for damage, rot, pest activity, and improper alterations.
• Floors, ceilings, and interior walls. Inspectors note staining, sagging, cracking, and signs of past moisture problems.

Roof and attic

• Roofing material. Shingles, tiles, or metal panels are checked for age, missing sections, granule loss, and improper installation.
• Flashings and penetrations. Chimney flashings, pipe boots, and skylight seals are common water entry points that inspectors examine closely.
• Attic insulation and ventilation. Proper attic ventilation prevents ice dams in cold climates and reduces cooling loads in hot ones. Insulation R-value and coverage are noted.
• Attic structure. Rafters, collar ties, and ridge boards are checked for damage or signs of prior leaks.

Electrical system

• Main electrical panel. The inspector checks for proper breaker labeling, double-tapping, overfusing, and evidence of amateur wiring.
• Wiring type. Older homes may have knob-and-tube or aluminum branch wiring, both of which insurers and buyers view as elevated risk.
• Outlets and switches. A sample of outlets throughout the home are tested for proper grounding and polarity. GFCI protection in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas is verified.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Presence is noted but functionality testing may be limited.

Plumbing system

• Supply lines. Water pressure is tested. The inspector notes pipe materials, including copper, PEX, galvanized steel, or polybutylene.
• Drain lines. Visible drain pipes are checked for leaks, improper slope, and correct venting. A sewer scope is a separate add-on service.
• Water heater. The inspector checks age, capacity, relief valve installation, and signs of corrosion or leakage.
• Fixtures. All faucets, toilets, showers, and tubs are tested for proper operation and leaks.

HVAC systems

• Furnace and air conditioner. The inspector runs the system and checks operation, filter condition, and heat exchanger integrity for gas furnaces.
• Ductwork. Visible ducts are checked for damage, disconnection, or improper insulation.
• Fireplaces and chimneys. Interior fireboxes, dampers, and visible flues are checked. A full chimney inspection by a chimney sweep is a separate service.

What is NOT included in a standard inspection

A general home inspection does not typically include radon testing, mold testing, sewer scoping, pest or termite inspection, well or septic testing, chimney sweeping, pool or spa inspection, or asbestos sampling. Each of these is a specialty service that costs extra. Ask your inspector which add-ons make sense for the home you are buying.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a home inspection take? Most single-family home inspections take 2 to 4 hours. Larger or older homes may take 4 to 5 hours. Plan to attend the inspection so your inspector can walk you through findings in person.

Can the buyer attend the home inspection? Yes, and you should. Walking through with the inspector lets you ask questions, understand the severity of issues, and learn how systems in the home operate.

What happens after the inspection? You receive a written report, usually within 24 hours. You can then negotiate with the seller for repairs, credits, or a price reduction, or you can walk away if your contract includes an inspection contingency.

Bottom line

A standard home inspection is a thorough visual review of structure, roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. It is not a guarantee or a code compliance certificate, but it gives you a detailed picture of the home's condition before you close. Get quotes from a licensed home inspector early in your due-diligence period, and use our home inspection cost calculator to budget accordingly.

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