Residential Property Inspection Checklist

When purchasing a residential property, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the premises to identify any potential issues or defects. A comprehensive inspection checklist can help you navigate this process and ensure that you make an informed decision about your purchase. This article will provide you with a detailed residential property inspection checklist to guide you through the inspection process.

Exterior

• Roof condition:
  • Age
  • Material (asphalt shingles, wood shakes, etc.)
  • Number of layers
  • Any signs of damage or wear
• Gutters and downspouts:
  • Condition
  • Functionality
  • Any signs of clogging or rust
• Siding:
  • Type (vinyl, brick, stucco, etc.)
  • Condition
  • Any signs of damage or rot
• Windows and doors:
  • Number and condition
  • Any signs of damage or wear
• Porches and decks:
  • Condition
  • Any signs of damage or rot
• Landscaping:
  • Quality of grass, shrubs, and trees
  • Any signs of erosion or water damage

Interior

• Walls and ceilings:
  • Any signs of water damage or stains
  • Cracks or holes in the walls or ceiling
• Floors:
  • Type (hardwood, carpet, tile, etc.)
  • Condition
  • Any signs of water damage or wear
• Plumbing:
  • Leaks under sinks, toilets, and around appliances
  • Water pressure
• Electrical:
  • Functionality of lights, outlets, and switches
  • Any signs of overheating or burn marks
• HVAC:
  • Age and condition of the system
  • Any signs of damage or wear

Kitchen and Bathrooms

• Appliances:
  • Condition and functionality of oven, stove, dishwasher, etc.
  • Any signs of rust or corrosion
• Cabinets and countertops:
  • Condition
  • Any signs of water damage or stains
• Plumbing fixtures:
  • Functionality of sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs
  • Any signs of leaks or mineral buildup

Attic and Crawlspace

• Insulation quality and quantity
• Ventilation and airflow
• Any signs of pests or rodents
• Water damage or stains on the walls or ceiling

Garage and Outbuildings

• Condition of the garage door and tracks
• Any signs of water damage or wear on the floor or walls
• Functionality of lights, outlets, and switches
• Condition of any outbuildings (shed, greenhouse, etc.)

Additional Items to Check

• Fireplaces and chimneys:
  • Condition and functionality
  • Any signs of soot or creosote buildup
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors:
  • Functionality
  • Age and condition
• Pest infestation:
  • Signs of termites, carpenter ants, or other pests

Remember to always hire a qualified professional for any repairs or maintenance work, and never attempt to inspect a property yourself. This checklist is meant to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the inspection process, but it should not replace the expertise of a licensed inspector.