House Buying Inspection Checklist
Ensure your potential new home is a sound investment with this comprehensive house buying inspection checklist covering structural, mechanical, and safety systems.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A home inspection typically takes 2 to 4 hours depending on the size and age of the property. It is a non-invasive examination of the home's current condition. This checklist helps you track the health of the structure and systems to avoid 'buyer's remorse' and unexpected repair bills.
The goal is to identify 'material defects'—problems that significantly impact the value or safety of the home. Minor cosmetic issues like paint chips or carpet wear are usually secondary to structural integrity and system functionality.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | Success Criteria | If Not Done / Next Step |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation Cracks/Settling | Required | Professional | 30 min | No horizontal cracks or major shifting | Consult structural engineer |
| Roof Shingle Condition | Required | Either | 20 min | No missing, curling, or broken shingles | Request roof certification/repair |
| Electrical Panel & Wiring | Required | Professional | 30 min | No charred wires; labeled breakers | Hire electrician for safety audit |
| HVAC Operation (Heat/AC) | Required | Either | 20 min | System blows hot/cold air as expected | Service HVAC or request credit |
| Water Heater Age/Leaks | Recommended | Either | 10 min | No rust at base; manufactured <10 yrs ago | Budget for replacement |
| Attic Insulation & Ventilation | Recommended | Either | 20 min | Dry insulation; no signs of mold/leaks | Improve venting or replace insulation |
| Basement/Crawlspace Moisture | Required | Either | 30 min | No standing water or musty odors | Install sump pump or waterproof |
| Window Seals & Operation | Optional | DIY | 15 min | Windows open easily; no fogging between panes | Replace blown thermal seals |
| Exterior Siding & Trim | Recommended | DIY | 20 min | No rot, soft spots, or pest damage | Repair wood rot to prevent leaks |
| Gutter & Downspout Flow | Recommended | DIY | 15 min | Clear of debris; water diverted from house | Clean or repair drainage system |
| Plumbing Water Pressure | Required | DIY | 10 min | Strong flow when multiple taps are on | Check for pipe corrosion or clogs |
| GFCI Outlet Functionality | Required | DIY | 15 min | Outlets trip and reset in wet areas | Replace faulty safety outlets |
| Wall & Ceiling Stains | Required | Either | 15 min | No active water stains or soft drywall | Identify source of leak immediately |
| Floor Levelness | Recommended | Either | 10 min | Floors are flat; no significant sloping | Investigate joist or foundation issues |
| Kitchen Appliance Function | Optional | DIY | 20 min | Stove, oven, and dishwasher operate | Negotiate appliance replacement |
| Toilet Flush & Seal | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | No rocking; no leaks at the base | Replace wax ring or flange |
| Sump Pump Operation | Required | DIY | 10 min | Pump activates when water is added | Replace pump before next rain |
| Garage Door Safety Sensors | Required | DIY | 5 min | Door reverses when path is blocked | Adjust or replace sensors |
Use this table as your primary guide during the walkthrough. Mark each item as you go and take photos of any 'Fail' criteria to share with your realtor or the seller.
Remember that no house is perfect. Use the results to differentiate between 'deal-breakers' and 'maintenance projects' you can handle after moving in.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
After the inspection is complete, review the report thoroughly with your real estate agent to determine your negotiation strategy.
- Always get a specialized inspection for older homes (sewer scope, lead, asbestos).
- Check the age of the roof and HVAC to estimate future capital expenditures.
- Don't sweat the small stuff like loose doorknobs or chipped paint.
- Verify that all repairs agreed upon were completed via a final walkthrough.
- Keep the inspection report for your records; it serves as a baseline for future maintenance.
- If the home has a septic tank or well, these require separate professional inspections.
- Look for signs of DIY 'handyman' repairs that may not be up to code.
- Check for evidence of pests like termites or carpenter ants in wooden structures.
- Browse our Home Maintenance guides for post-purchase care.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
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