Home Inspection Checklist – What Every Buyer Needs to Know | Evan Glasco
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and while it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding the perfect place, a thorough home inspection is critical to avoid costly surprises. A home inspection helps identify structural, mechanical, and safety issues before finalizing your purchase.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, knowing what to look for can save you from unexpected expenses. Below are the key areas every buyer should evaluate before closing the deal.
1. Foundation & Structural Integrity
Why It Matters:
The foundation is the backbone of a home. Cracks, shifting, or settling can indicate major structural concerns that require expensive repairs.
What to Look For:
✔ Visible cracks in the foundation or walls, especially horizontal cracks.
✔ Uneven floors or doors/windows that don’t close properly.
✔ Water damage in the basement or crawl space.
✔ Sagging or bowing walls, which may indicate foundation movement.
🏡 Pro Tip: Foundation issues don’t always mean a deal-breaker, but always get a specialist to evaluate potential repairs.
2. Roof Condition
Why It Matters:
A damaged or aging roof can lead to leaks, mold, and costly repairs.
What to Look For:
✔ Missing, curled, or cracked shingles.
✔ Water stains or mold on ceilings inside the home.
✔ Sagging areas on the roof or visible damage to gutters and flashing.
✔ Roof age—most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-30 years.
🏡 Pro Tip: If the roof is near the end of its lifespan, negotiate a replacement or request a credit from the seller.
3. Plumbing System
Why It Matters:
Leaky pipes and poor plumbing can lead to water damage, mold, and high repair costs.
What to Look For:
✔ Leaks under sinks, in basements, or around toilets.
✔ Rusty or corroded pipes, especially in older homes.
✔ Low water pressure, which could signal pipe issues.
✔ Water heater age—most last 8-12 years.
🏡 Pro Tip: If the home has old pipes or frequent leaks, get a plumber’s estimate before making an offer.
4. Electrical System
Why It Matters:
Faulty wiring is a leading cause of house fires and may not support modern appliances.
What to Look For:
✔ Flickering or dimming lights.
✔ Old fuse boxes or outdated breaker panels.
✔ Exposed or outdated wiring (knob-and-tube wiring in older homes).
✔ Lack of outlets in key rooms.
🏡 Pro Tip: Homes with aluminum wiring or low-amp electrical panels may need expensive upgrades.
5. HVAC System (Heating & Cooling)
Why It Matters:
An inefficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can mean high energy bills and expensive repairs.
What to Look For:
✔ Furnace and AC unit age—most last 15-20 years.
✔ Strange noises when turning on the heat or AC.
✔ Uneven heating or cooling throughout the home.
✔ Dirty filters and vents (signs of poor maintenance).
🏡 Pro Tip: If the HVAC system is older, negotiate for repairs or a replacement before closing.
6. Windows & Doors
Why It Matters:
Windows affect energy efficiency, security, and overall home maintenance costs.
What to Look For:
✔ Drafty windows (higher energy bills).
✔ Single-pane windows (less energy-efficient than double-pane).
✔ Rotting or damaged window frames.
✔ Doors that don’t close properly (could indicate foundation issues).
🏡 Pro Tip: Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can lower heating and cooling costs significantly.
7. Attic & Insulation
Why It Matters:
Poor attic insulation leads to high energy bills, moisture buildup, and potential roof damage.
What to Look For:
✔ Proper insulation levels—missing insulation = high energy costs.
✔ Signs of leaks or mold growth.
✔ Poor ventilation, leading to moisture issues.
🏡 Pro Tip: If insulation is lacking, budget for an energy-efficiency upgrade.
8. Pests & Termites
Why It Matters:
Wood-destroying pests, like termites and rodents, can cause serious structural damage.
What to Look For:
✔ Hollow-sounding wood.
✔ Mud tubes along the foundation (sign of termites).
✔ Droppings or nests in attics and basements.
✔ Chewed wires (indicating rodents).
🏡 Pro Tip: A pest inspection is a must for older homes or properties with wood siding.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Skip the Home Inspection!
A home inspection is your last line of defense before finalizing a purchase. While no house is perfect, knowing which issues are minor and which are deal-breakers is crucial.
💡 As your Realtor, I’ll help you navigate the inspection process, negotiate repairs, and ensure you make a smart investment.
Thinking about buying a home? Let’s chat and go over what to expect during your inspection!
📞 Call or text me anytime!
Work with Nevada County’s Top Realtor
Evan Glasco
📍 Realtor® | Lic# 02209690 | Coldwell Banker Grass Roots Realty
🏡 Nevada County Real Estate Specialist
📞 530-635-2521
📧 EvanSellsRealEstate@gmail.com
🌐 www.EvanSellsRealEstate.com
📢 "I'm more than just a Realtor—I'm here to guide you home."
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