A standard residential home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of a home's major systems and structure. Here's what a residential inspector actually checks, room by room and system by system.
Exterior & Roof
Siding, trim, grading and drainage, walkways, and the roof covering, flashing, and gutters are all evaluated for damage, wear, and improper installation. See our dedicated roof inspection service for more detail on this part of the process.
Foundation & Structure
Inspectors look for cracking, settling, moisture intrusion, and signs of structural movement in the foundation, crawl space, or basement.
Electrical
The panel, visible wiring, outlets, switches, and fixtures are checked for safety issues like double-tapped breakers, missing GFCI protection, and outdated wiring types.
Plumbing
Supply and drain lines, fixtures, water heater condition and age, and visible leaks are documented, along with water pressure and functional flow testing.
HVAC
Heating and cooling equipment is tested for function, age, and maintenance condition, since HVAC replacement is one of the more expensive repairs a homeowner can face.
Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
Inspectors check insulation levels, ventilation, and signs of past roof leaks or pest activity visible from the attic.
Interior
Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, and built-in appliances (where applicable) are checked for function and visible defects.
How Long Does It Take?
Most residential inspections take two to four hours on-site, followed by a digital report delivered quickly afterward — see a sample report to see exactly what you'll receive.
What a Standard Inspection Does Not Cover
A general home inspection is not a code-compliance inspection, and it doesn't include specialty testing like wood-destroying insect inspections, well or septic testing, or lead-based paint testing — those are performed by separately licensed specialists when needed.
Want to know exactly what you're getting?
Every inspection includes a full walkthrough and an easy-to-read digital report with photos and recommendations.
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