The
Home Inspection
MAIN COMPONENTS OF THE HOME INSPECTION
Grounds - Exterior - Interior
GROUNDS
Grounds are carefully evaluated for:
• Driveways, walkways, and steps – condition, trip hazards, cracking, and drainage.
• Grading and drainage – slope away from the home, standing water, and erosion.
• Retaining walls – stability, leaning, cracking, and signs of movement.
• Patios, decks, and porches – structure, railings, stairs, and surface condition.
• Vegetation near the home – trees, shrubs, and roots that may affect the foundation or siding.
• Fences and gates – general condition and safety concerns.
• Exterior drainage systems – gutters, downspouts, extensions, and how water is directed away from the house.
• Exterior utilities – visible service lines, meters, and exterior HVAC equipment.
Findings on the grounds are included in your written report so you understand any safety issues or maintenance needs around the property.
Exterior
The exterior of the home is carefully evaluated for:
• Siding and exterior walls – condition, damage, gaps, and signs of moisture intrusion.
• Windows and doors – frames, seals, flashing, and overall operation.
• Trim and fascia – rot, deterioration, and proper installation.
• Exterior caulking and sealants – gaps, cracking, and areas needing maintenance.
• Exterior stairs, railings, and landings – safety, stability, and condition.
• Roof - condition, age, signs of deterioration and damage, flashing and ventilation.
• Exterior vents – dryer, bathroom, and kitchen vents for proper termination and damage.
• Chimneys (visible portions) – structure, flashing, caps, and signs of deterioration.
• Exterior electrical – visible wiring, outlets, and fixtures.
All exterior findings are documented in your written report so you understand any safety issues, maintenance needs, or potential water-intrusion concerns around your home.
Interior
Interior of the home is carefully evaluated for:
• Structural - Evaluate and inspect all visible and accessible structural portions of the home.
• Walls, ceilings, and floors – cracks, stains, damage, and signs of moisture and structural movement.
• Doors and interior trim – operation, alignment, latching, and visible damage.
• Kitchen – Function of oven, stove, dishwasher, installed microwave, means of ventilation and any other installed appliances.
• HVAC – Proper operation and function, air differential, registers, radiators, means of venting, remove access panels for condition of the air handler, boiler and furnace.
• Plumbing – function of supply lines, waste pipes, faucets and toilets, check for any corrosion and leaks, proper drainage and sump pump function, function condition and venting of water heater.
• Electric – check main and sub panels for proper wiring, means of wiring throughout the home, fixtures, GFCI operation, check outlets for proper polarity and grounds.
• Windows – operation, locks, seals, and evidence of condensation or leaks.
• Stairs, railings, and landings – safety, stability, and proper construction.
• Laundry – function of machines, plumbing, basins and ventilation.
• Fireplaces and hearths – visible condition, clearances, and safety concerns and a level one inspection of the chimney.
• Attic – insulation, ventilation, and visible framing and structural components where accessible.
• Visible signs of water intrusion – staining, musty odors, or damage around windows, ceilings, and exterior walls.
All interior findings are documented in your written report so you understand any safety issues, cosmetic concerns, or potential maintenance needs inside the home.
PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND FOR BUYERS OR SELLERS
Whether you are buying your first home or selling a property you've owned for years, Patriot Home Inspections will provide you with the all the data and information needed for you to make informed decisions with absolute confidence.