Anyone selling or buying a home should hire a certified home inspector to evaluate the state of the factors listed here. The home inspection checklist’s results can have a significant impact on the market value of the property. So it makes sense for a seller to remedy any shortcomings found on the inspection checklist prior to putting the property on the market. Likewise, a buyer can utilize problems noted on the checklist to negotiate seller-paid repairs or a reduction in the offer price.
If you are buying or selling a home in Austin or Dallas, call Advanced Inspection Service today to talk with one of our certified home inspectors.
(972) 342-9183
The Exterior Home Inspection Checklist is divided in two parts – the house grounds and ancillary structures, and the factors affecting the condition of the home itself.
Home Inspection Checklist — Grounds
Assessment of the condition of the land, outbuildings and other improvements; their impact on the soundness of the home; identification of any defects or potential problems.
Drainage and Landscape
_____ Yard slopes away from house
_____ Downspout drain directed away from house
_____ No standing water
_____ No trees touching or overhanging roofs
Outbuildings and Other Structures
_____ Garages, sheds and other outbuildings in good condition
_____ Garage door opener(s) function properly
_____ Garage door opener(s)
_____ Fences and retaining walls in good condition
Exterior Home Safety Inspections
_____ Deck and stair railings sound (no movement, rot or damage)
_____ Driveways and sidewalks in good condition
_____ Lockable fence around pool/spa (if present)
_____ Safety glass in all overhead installations (e.g., skylights)
Home Inspection Checklist — Structure
Evaluation of the exterior of the main house, with regard to the structure and soundness of the foundation, framing, roofing, sheathing, windows and exterior doors.
Overall House Structure
_____ Roof ridge level and unbowed
_____ Walls plumb and unbowed
_____ Door frames and windows are square
_____ Foundation exterior straight and plumb
_____ No significant foundation cracking or damage
Exterior Surfaces Inspection
_____ 6” minimum between wood and earth
_____ No siding damage
_____ No significant cracks or holes in exterior masonry
_____ No flaking or blisters in exterior paint/stain
Windows, Doors and Trim
_____ No broken glass in windows or doors
_____ Thermal glass or storm windows/doors
_____ Window frames and trim pieces are secure and sound
_____ Drip caps over all windows
Roof Inspection
_____ Surface covering in good condition, no missing or damaged shingles/tiles
_____ No more than two layers of roofing present
_____ No decay or staining in soffits or fascia
_____ Flashing around all roof penetrations
_____ Flashing at all roof-wall intersections
_____ Gutters (if present) in good condition and properly attached
_____ Downspouts in good condition and properly attached
_____ Chimneys plumb and properly flashed
_____ Chimney masonry in good condition, no cracks
The Exterior Home Inspection Checklist above is intended to illustrate the key points that need to be covered when inspecting the outside of a home. This is not a substitute for engaging a professional real estate inspector who has the training and experience to utilize the checklist effectively. Only certified home inspectors can evaluate the items in this list to provide a complete and detailed assessment of the condition of the home’s structure and systems.
Call AIS to discuss your property inspection requirements. (972) 342-9183