What Buyers Should Look for During a Home Inspection
A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. It gives buyers the opportunity to understand the physical condition of a property before committing, and it can help uncover issues that may affect value, safety, or future costs.
While no inspection can guarantee a home is problem free, knowing what to look for helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises.
Interior condition
Inside the home, inspectors focus on signs that may indicate movement, moisture, or deferred maintenance.
Key items to review include:
• Sloped or uneven floors, which may indicate settlement
• Bowed walls or ceiling misalignment
• Doors and windows that do not open or close properly
• Water stains, moisture, or visible mould, especially in basements and closets
• Attic insulation and ventilation, which affect efficiency and moisture control
• Fixtures, faucets, and built in appliances to confirm basic operation
Plumbing systems
Plumbing issues can be expensive and disruptive, making material identification especially important.
Items to pay attention to:
• Supply line materials, older materials such as galvanized, lead, or Kitec are more prone to failure
• Preferred modern materials include copper or PEX
• Drainage and venting materials, typically ABS or copper in newer systems
• Cast iron or clay sewer lines, which may deteriorate over time
In some cases, a sewer scope may be recommended to identify root intrusion or deterioration not visible during a standard inspection.
Electrical systems
Electrical safety and capacity are critical, particularly in older homes.
Key inspection points include:
• Electrical service size, commonly 60, 100, or 200 amps, and whether it suits the home
• Whether the panel uses breakers or fuses, fuses are outdated and often require upgrading
• Presence of ungrounded outlets
• Wiring type, copper is preferred
Homes built before the 1950s may contain knob and tube wiring, which is no longer permitted and typically requires replacement.
Homes from the 1960s and 1970s may have aluminum wiring, which can be safe if properly updated, but may pose a fire risk if connections are not correct.
Heating and cooling systems
Mechanical systems represent both comfort and long term expense.
Inspectors typically assess:
• Type of heating system, gas, oil, or electric
• Approximate age and remaining lifespan of equipment
• Condition of ductwork or piping
• Proper venting of combustion appliances
• Any rental items, such as hot water heaters
For homes with wood stoves or fireplaces, confirming WETT compliance is important.
Exterior elements
The exterior provides valuable insight into maintenance and water management.
Items commonly reviewed include:
• Roof type and approximate age
• Condition of gutters, soffits, and downspouts
• Window seals and exterior capping
• Lot grading and drainage, which affect water movement around the foundation
Foundation and structure
Structural issues are among the most serious findings in an inspection.
Inspectors look for:
• Foundation cracks, particularly horizontal cracks
• Signs of settlement or shifting
• Moisture intrusion
• Cracks propagating through brickwork or masonry
• Bowed foundation walls
Not all cracks are structural, but understanding which ones matter is critical.
Using the inspection report
A home inspection report can be used to:
• Better understand the property
• Renegotiate price or terms
• Request repairs in some cases
• Decide whether to proceed with the purchase
It’s important to remember that inspections identify visible and accessible issues only. They reduce risk, but they do not eliminate it entirely.
Final thoughts
A thorough inspection provides clarity, not perfection. The goal is to understand what you are buying, what issues are manageable, and what may require further consideration.
When possible, identifying concerns early can save both time and money.
If you’re preparing to buy, visit our Buyers page for a full overview of the process.
