Definitions and Scope of your Inspection

A Home Inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of a residential dwelling, performed for a fee, which is designed to identify observed material defects within specific components of said dwelling. 

Components may include any combination of mechanical, structural, electrical, plumbing, or other essential systems or portions of the home, as identified and agreed to by the Client and Inspector, prior to the inspection process.

I. A home inspection is intended to assist in evaluation of the overall condition of the dwelling. The inspection is based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and its components on the date of the inspection, and not the prediction of future conditions.

II. A home inspection will not reveal every concern that exists or ever could exist, but only those material defects observed on the day of the inspection.

A Material Defect is a condition of a residential real property, or any portion of it, that would have a significant, adverse impact on the value of the real property, or that involves an unreasonable risk to people on the property. The fact that a structural element, system or subsystem is near, at or beyond the end of the normal useful life of such a structural element, system or subsystem is not by itself a material defect.

An Inspection Report shall describe and identify, in written format, the inspected systems, structures, and components of the dwelling, and shall identify material defects observed. Inspection reports may contain recommendations regarding conditions reported or recommendations for correction, monitoring or further evaluation by professionals, but this is not required.

Here are some of the many items I'll be looking at during your home inspection:

Roof, vents, flashings, and trim
Exterior siding
Gutters & downspouts
Skylights, chimneys, and other roof penetrations
Decks, stoops, porches, walkways, and railings
Eaves, soffits, and fascia
Grading and drainage
Basements, foundations & crawlspaces
Attics
Chimney exteriors
Signs of water penetration and foundation movement
Heating systems
Cooling systems
Main water shut-off valves
Water heating systems
Interior plumbing, fixtures, and faucets
Windows and doors
Floors, walls and ceilings
Drainage sump pumps with accessible floats
Electrical service line and meter box
Main disconnect and service amperage
Electrical panels, breakers, and fuses
Electrical grounding and bonding
GFCIs and AFCIs
Fireplace damper door and hearth
Insulation and ventilation
Garage doors, safety sensors, and openers
Appliances.
And much more...