Home Inspection
7 min Read

Home Inspection Checklist: What’s Included in a Professional Inspection

Gain an in-depth understanding of a home inspection, from roof to foundation. Learn what our inspectors evaluate, why it matters, and how these insights help you make informed homeownership decisions with confidence.
Published on
February 17, 2025

Understanding the Full Scope of a Home Inspection

At Coal Creek Home Inspections, we believe knowledge is power—especially when it comes to one of life’s biggest investments: your home. A home inspection is more than just a checklist; it’s a deep dive into the structure, safety, and functionality of a property. From the roof to the foundation, we conduct a meticulous and thorough examination. Let’s break down the key components of a comprehensive home inspection.

Roof & Structural Integrity

The roof and attic play a crucial role in protecting your home. We inspect roofing materials—shingles, tiles, or metal panels—for signs of damage, including cracks, missing pieces, or exposed fasteners. Roof flashing is checked for proper waterproofing, as well as flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Whenever possible, we walk on the roof to ensure the most thorough inspection. We also crawl through the attic to thoroughly inspect insulation, ventilation, and signs of roof leaks or structural damage. This hands-on approach allows us to assess energy efficiency, detect hidden issues not seen from the attic hatch, and ensure long-term durability.

Exterior & Foundation

The exterior of your home provides the first impression and serves as a barrier against the elements. We inspect siding, flashing, and trim for cracks, rot, or warping. Walkways, driveways, patios, and decks are assessed for structural integrity and potential safety hazards. The foundation is carefully inspected for cracks, settling, or shifting, which could be signs of structural instability and may require further evaluation by a professional.

Home inspector walking on a shingled roof during a residential inspection, assessing the condition and structural integrity of the roofing materials.
Thorough inspections start at the top! Our inspectors walk the roof whenever possible.

Interior & Living Spaces

Inside the home, we conduct a thorough inspection of floors, walls, and ceilings, checking for cracks, water stains, or uneven surfaces that could indicate underlying issues. We ensure doors and windows function correctly, provide a proper seal, and offer adequate security. Whenever possible, we test all available appliances to confirm they are in working order. Kitchens and laundry areas are examined for plumbing concerns, appliance functionality, and proper ventilation. We inspect bathrooms for leaks, water damage, and ventilation efficiency to help prevent mold growth. Additionally, we assess specialized features such as fireplaces and heated floors to ensure their safety and proper operation. We perform a thermal scan whenever possible to help detect hidden leaks, missing insulation, or other concerns. If it's accessible, we inspect it.

Mechanical Systems: HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical

A home’s mechanical systems must function safely and efficiently. We inspect the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for cleanliness, efficiency, and potential safety hazards. Plumbing systems are checked for leaks, water pressure issues, and proper installation of fixtures, including the water heater. Electrical system components, including service entrance conductors, panelboards, grounding, switches, GFCI, and more, are evaluated for safety compliance and potential fire hazards.

Garage, Basements & Crawlspaces

Unfinished spaces like the garage, basement, and crawlspaces are critical areas of inspection. We evaluate these areas for structural integrity, moisture intrusion, and fire safety features such as fire-rated walls where required. Garage doors and openers are tested for proper functionality and safety. Basements and crawlspaces are assessed for foundation movement and structural concerns. We thoroughly inspect any accessible part of the crawlspace, checking for signs of pest and water intrusion as well as ensuring best practices for radon mitigation are in place.

Conclusion

A home inspection is a vital step in the homebuying process, providing you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision. At Coal Creek Home Inspections, our detailed assessments ensure you understand every aspect of your potential home. Don't take risks with your investment—schedule your thorough inspection with Coal Creek Home Inspections today and move forward with confidence in your home purchase.

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