Preliminary House Inspection

The purpose of your personal inspection is only to eliminate those properties from consideration that have too many obvious deficiencies. It is not designed to take the place of a professional house inspection. If a house passes your initial "tests" (location, wants and needs, etc.) you will probably want to schedule a second showing where you can spend an hour or so doing an inspection of the house.

What to look for:

Foundation

Are there obvious cracks? Any apparent shifts in the foundation?

Roof

Does it appear new, old, or of an indeterminate age? What is the overall condition?

Evidence of leaks

Check inside as well as outside. Check all ceilings and areas around windows.

Basement or crawlspace

Is there dampness? Is there adequate insulation?

Attic

How does the interior of the roof structure look?

Quality and workmanship

In general and in any additions

Apparent energy efficiency

Does the house appear tightly sealed?

Electrical

Any obvious malfunctions?

Plumbing

Any unusual noises or malfunctions?

Appliance condition

What is the age and condition of the stove, dishwasher, refrigerator (if included), etc.?

Heating/cooling system

Does it seem to do the job heating or cooling?

Exterior

Is the house going to need repairs or paint soon?

Lot

Does the drainage appear good--and away from the house?

Lot

Are there any trees encroaching on the roof or foundation?

courtesy of Our Family Place