Question by lvsgal86: Home Inspection?
How much does in cost to get a basic home inspection on a house that is about 1400 sq ft?

Varies by area $ 250-350 for one. .

Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!

Question by Jennifer: Home inspection tips?
I am about to do a home inspection on a  property and was just wondering what could be some major issues that I should lookout for in the house I want to buy.

Thanks!

Any major renovations to the property?

Are there any uncompleted renovations or repairs needed?

Are there receipts/warranties/guarantees provided by repair contractors for the renovations done?

Pest control clearance provided?

Roofing
Indications of roof leakage?

Gutters and downspouts secure?

Signs of roof surface, flashings, vent or chimney damage?

Exterior
Evidence of cracks, paint peeling or other visible defects?

Trip hazards, cracking in the walkways, driveway or steps?

Plants/vegetation growing on the exterior of the home?

Stairway, deck, porch and other railings secure?

Cracks or indications of retaining wall failure?

Signs of inadequate surface drainage?

Openings into the building at trim, flashings, chimneys, etc.?

Signs of soil movement around perimeter of the home?

Basement
Are all accessible areas dry?

Are there any indications of current or prior water damage?

If there is a sump pump, is it operational?

Indications of foundation cracking or movement?

Musty odors or signs of mold or mildew?

Interior
Stains, cracks or damage to interior walls, ceilings or floors

Cracked or broken windows?

Windows and window latches operate properly?

Doors and door latches operate properly?

Stains or leaks at kitchen, bathroom or laundry sinks?

Interior staircases have safe, secure handrails?

Smoke alarms in hallways, on each floor, in each bedroom?

Kitchen and Bathrooms
Are all appliances functional?

Cabinets, countertops, sinks or floors damaged?

Water Pressure is ok at sinks, shower and tub spout?

Any sign of water leaks under sinks?

Are all ceramic tile floors and wainscoting intact and well grouted?

Garage
Garage door functional?

Automatic door opener reverse properly?

Indications of dampness or mildew?

Electrical
All light fixtures operational?

All electrical outlets functional?

All smoke detectors provided and functional?

Doorbell operational?

GFCI outlets in kitchen, bathrooms, exterior and garage?

GFCI devices functional?

Any visible dangling or exposed wiring?

Extension, lamp cord, or zip cord used as permanent wiring?

Plumbing
Adequate water flow at fixtures and drains?

Faucet or drain pipe leaks?

Adequate water pressure?

Ample hot water provided?

Clothes washer and dryer functional?

Water heater adequately strapped?

Water heater has popper pressure/temperature relief?

Heating/Cooling
System functional?

Serviced recently?

Is there adequate heat/cooling distribution to each room?

Are there large differences in temperature between different rooms?

Fireplace
Safety check on older fireplaces and chimneys?

Last time serviced?

Dampers operational?

Fire boxes need repair?

Spark arrestor and rain cap installed?

Further, I would visit the house on a rainy day of you can. Look for water puddles on the lot, any drainage concerns, and see if you can get in the attic as well. Look for any truss or sheathing discoloration – anything black is not good – that is an indicator of mold.

Good luck!

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