Residential Inspection

A residential home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of a home’s major systems, structure, and accessible components. Our goal is to help you understand the current condition of the property so you can make confident and informed decisions before you move forward.

We carefully inspect the following major areas of the home.

 

🏠 Structural Components

We evaluate the visible and accessible structural elements of the home, including:

• Foundation and foundation walls

• Basement and crawlspace areas

• Floor structure and framing

• Support beams, columns, and posts

• Visible load-bearing walls

• Signs of movement, cracking, or settlement

• Evidence of previous structural repairs

Our inspection looks for conditions that may affect the integrity and long-term performance of the structure.

 

🧱 Exterior of the Home

We inspect the exterior surfaces and components that protect the home from weather and moisture, including:

• Siding, trim, and exterior wall coverings

• Brick, stone, and masonry surfaces

• Caulking and sealants

• Exterior doors and windows

• Decks, porches, balconies, and steps

• Railings and guards

• Driveways, walkways, and patios

• Visible drainage patterns and grading around the home

• Vegetation that may be in contact with the structure

We look for deterioration, damage, improper installation, and conditions that may lead to water intrusion.

 

🏡 Roofing System

The roofing system is inspected for visible defects and overall condition, including:

• Roof covering materials (shingles, metal, etc.)

• Flashing and roof penetrations

• Valleys and roof transitions

• Gutters and downspouts

• Roof drainage paths

• Visible signs of aging, damage, or leaks

If roof access is limited due to height, pitch, or weather conditions, alternative viewing methods are used whenever possible.

 

🌬 Attic, Insulation & Ventilation

We evaluate the accessible attic areas and ventilation systems, including:

• Roof structure and framing visible in the attic

• Insulation type and approximate depth

• Attic ventilation methods and airflow

• Bathroom and kitchen exhaust vent routing

• Signs of moisture, staining, or active leaks

• Evidence of past or present pest activity

Proper insulation and ventilation play a major role in energy efficiency and moisture control.

 

🚪 Doors, Windows & Interior Areas

We inspect representative interior areas and components, including:

• Walls, ceilings, and floors

• Interior doors and hardware

• Windows, sashes, and visible frames

• Stairs, railings, and handrails

• Countertops and cabinetry

• Garage doors and automatic openers

• Evidence of water damage or staining

We focus on safety concerns, visible defects, and functional issues.

 

🔥 Fireplaces & Solid Fuel Appliances

When present, we inspect accessible portions of:

• Fireplaces and wood-burning appliances

• Firebox, hearth, and visible chimney components

• Damper operation

• Signs of damage, creosote buildup, or unsafe conditions

A specialized chimney inspection is recommended for a more detailed internal evaluation.

 

🧱 Foundation, Basement & Crawlspace

We inspect accessible foundation and below-grade areas, including:

• Foundation walls and visible footings

• Floor structure and support framing

• Signs of moisture intrusion or water entry

• Cracks and visible movement

• Evidence of past waterproofing or repairs

These areas often reveal important information about drainage, moisture, and structural performance.

 

🌡 Heating Systems

We inspect the permanently installed heating equipment, including:

• Furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps

• Energy source and general condition

• Thermostat operation

• Distribution systems such as ductwork or piping

• Visible safety and performance concerns

We identify aging equipment and recommend further evaluation when appropriate.

 

❄ Cooling Systems

When weather conditions permit, we inspect:

• Central air conditioning systems

• Heat pump cooling components

• Condensing units and air handlers

• Visible refrigerant lines

• General operation and condition

We note signs of deterioration, improper installation, and servicing needs.

 

💧 Plumbing System

We inspect the visible and accessible portions of the plumbing system, including:

• Water supply piping and materials

• Drain, waste, and vent piping

• Water heaters and expansion tanks

• Sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets

• Hose faucets and visible shut-off valves

• Signs of leaks, corrosion, or improper installation

We perform sewer line or underground pipe inspections as an add-on servce.

 

⚡ Electrical System

We inspect the main electrical system and accessible components, including:

• Main service panel and sub-panels

• Service entrance conductors

• Circuit breakers or fuses

• Representative switches, outlets, and fixtures

• Grounding and bonding components

• Visible wiring methods and junction boxes

We identify common electrical safety concerns and conditions that may require correction.

 

🧪 Safety & Environmental Items

As part of the inspection, we look for visible and accessible safety issues such as:

• Missing or damaged handrails and guards

• Improper stair and balcony conditions

• Visible trip and fall hazards

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector placement recommendations

Optional services such as radon testing, wood-destroying insect inspections, sewer scoping or mold assessments may be available upon request.