Scope of the inspection

The home inspector will provide a visual inspection by looking at the home's various systems, including interior and exterior components. The inspector will check exterior components including roofing, flashing, chimneys, gutters, downspouts, wall surfaces, the foundation and the grading around it.

Home Inspection Checklist

• Foundation, Exterior walls, Roof
• Windows, Exterior doors, Interior doors, Kitchen cabinets
• Attic (including insulation), Ceilings Walls
• Plumbing system
• Electrical system
• Heating / Air conditioning system
• Floors and flooring
• Insulation in walls
• Ventilation
• Septic tank or sewer connection
• Well and water pump or water lines
• Other buildings such as detached garage
• Lot : drainage away from building, slopes, natural vegetation
• Driveway
• Common areas (for condominiums/stratas)
• Overall opinion of structural integrity of the building(s)
• Other areas

Note that if the inspection takes place in the winter, the roof and the foundation may not be fully visible for inspection if they are covered with snow and ice. For safety and insurance reasons, the home inspector is not required to climb up on a roof to look at it but will make all possible efforts to do so. However, the home inspector will inspect the roof from the ground. This also applies to the chimney and downspouts. If problems or symptoms beyond the scope of the inspection are found, the home inspector may recommend further evaluation. Interior systems the home inspector will check include electrical, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, insulation, flooring, ceiling and wall finishes, windows and doors. As with the outside of the home, the inspection of the interior systems is visual, meaning that the inspector will not be able to see behind walls or under the floor. A home inspection does not include appraisals, exact quotes for repairs, or pointing out noncompliance with building code requirements. A home inspection is not intended to provide warranties or guarantees. A home inspection is intended to help you make an informed decision about buying your home. A home inspection is not to be mistaken as a warranty on the house.