What Goes into a WIN Home Inspection?

Although it’s common practice to perform a home inspection before purchasing a home, many buyers and sellers are still unsure of what an inspection includes.

Home inspections provide a comprehensive overview of a home. The inspection should always include an examination of the following features:   

Foundation & Exterior

• Land Grading and Water Drainage – Inspectors will look at land grading directly adjacent to the home, which is the level or slope base of the land in relation to a home’s foundation. Proper grading helps keep basements and crawl spaces dry. It also prevents structural movement by moving water away from the property. Proper grading should slope away from a home at a rate of 1” per foot for the first 5’-6’ in the first 10.’
• Utility Service Connections – These are inspected to ensure electricity can get to a home safely from the utility box into the house, including underground utilities.
• Roof – The inspector examines the shape, drainage and seal, along with any signs of damage, moss or discoloration on the materials.
• Exterior Structure – An inspector will assess the condition of the exterior components such as siding, trim and windows.

Attic & Basement

• Attic – The underside of the roof is checked for signs of moisture or leaks. Framing is inspected for visible defects.
• Basement/Crawl Space – An inspector will examine grade support beams and posts in these areas, along with signs of visible moisture issues and any sub-structural damage.

Ceilings, Walls & Floors – These elements are reviewed for performance and any signs of damage such as cracks, leaks or past repairs.

Doors & Windows – These areas are examined for proper installation and any broken or damaged components. They are also checked for functionality and proper weather sealing.

Home Systems

• Electricity – Electric service panel cover is removed to check for any problems. Outlets and visible junctions are inspected for safety.
• Plumbing – Pipes are examined for proper materials and integrity, as well as all the fixtures and faucets for operation.
• HVAC – The furnace and air conditioning are examined for its current condition and maintenance history, along with heat/cooling distribution levels and the visible distribution piping or ductwork.

A thorough inspection will uncover a home’s current condition and include recommendations for repairs and maintenance timelines. For more information or to find a trained, friendly home inspector near you, visit WIN Home Inspection.