InspectNW

Home Inspection Checklist of Items Not Inspected

A home inspector's standard practice typically does not include the following, for which a specific license to inspect and identify may be required:

• Asbestos
• Radon (testing available), Methane, Radiation and Formaldehyde
• Wood-Destroying Organisms
• Mold, Mildew and Fungi
• Rodents
• Lead

General Home Inspection Checklist Items

• Structural Elements.
  Construction of walls, ceilings, floors, roof and foundation. Ask about horizontal cracks versus parallel cracks. Does the foundation seem secure? Does the roof leak? Has there been a fire in the attic?

   

• Exterior Evaluation.
  Wall covering, landscaping, grading, elevation, drainage, driveways, fences, sidewalks, fascia, trim, doors, windows, lights and exterior receptacles. If the exterior is covered in siding, what is under it?

   

• Roof and Attic.
  Framing, ventilation, type of roof construction, flashing and gutters. It does not include a guarantee of roof condition nor a roof certification. How many layers are on the roof? When will it need to be replaced? What is the average life expectancy of a roof?

   

• Plumbing.
  Identification of pipe materials used for potable, drain, waste and vent pipes. including condition. Toilets, showers, sinks, faucets and traps. It does not include a sewer inspection. Ask whether the plumbing is copper and be careful of faulty joints such as those that can occur with Kitec plumbing.

   

• Systems and Components.
  Water heaters, furnaces, air conditioning, duct work, chimney, fireplace and sprinklers. Usually a separate chimney inspection is performed if the inspector suspects there is a problem. Not all home inspectors will check sprinklers to make sure they operate correctly.

   

• Electrical.
  Main panel, circuit breakers, types of wiring, grounding, exhaust fans, receptacles, ceiling fans and light fixtures. Ask if the electrical panel is on a recall list. Is it up to code? Does the electrical panel user breakers (preferred) or fuses (outdated)?

   

• Appliances.
  Dishwasher, range and oven, built-in microwaves, garbage disposal and, yes, even smoke detectors. Washers and dryers are typically included as well if they remain with the home, but ask because those appliances are personal property.

   

Qualifications:

Washington Licensed Home Inspector 328, General Contractor LIC JORDAWH864OJ, Real Estate License 114729

About:

Contractor for those who need it, a realtor for support and insight and a home inspector by desire to help people. In what for many of us, is our dream, our kid's home, our pet's next territory, our sanctuary, our home, inspections matter.