The Complete Home Inspection Checklist

If you’re ready to embark on your home-buying journey but feeling overwhelmed about what to look for in a property, fear not. We've got your back with a handy home inspection checklist that you can reference no matter the age or condition of the home you're eyeing. From pesky pest problems to leaky roofs, we've got tips on what to watch out for to ensure your future dream home is everything you hoped it would be. So grab a pen and paper, and let's get to inspecting.

Home Inspection Checklist Summary

1.  Foundation Inspection

2.  Roof Inspection

3.  Attic Inspection

 

Why a Thorough Home Inspection is Essential

Transform your new house into a dream home with the help of a skilled home inspector. Don't be fooled by a fresh coat of paint or a perfectly manicured lawn; a thorough inspection could uncover hidden problems just waiting to wreak havoc. Lucky for you, every state has home inspectors who know their stuff — and some states even require licenses. These experts can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your new home is truly picture-perfect, inside out. Don't skip the contingency period, take advantage of it and bring up any issues that need fixing.

Don't expect to find a house without flaws or issues, even if it's a new one. But don't stress out if the inspection turns up several items that need attention. The inspector wants to earn their fair fee by giving a comprehensive list of everything they find, both big and small. And let's not forget that if they miss something, they could be held liable. So take a deep breath, brace yourself, and be prepared to confront any potential problems head-on.

Imagine selling a home without knowing everything that needs to be fixed. That's a recipe for stress and anxiety. Instead, sellers should consider having a home inspection before putting their house on the market. Not only will it help identify any hidden issues like dry rot or loose roof tiles, but it will also help jump on any necessary repairs before listing a home for sale.

If you're in the process of buying a new home, it can feel overwhelming with all the details to keep track of. But there are three areas that you absolutely do not want to overlook: the foundation, roof, and attic. Trust us, these are the parts of the house that will keep you safe and cozy for years to come so make sure to have them closely inspected.

 

Foundation Inspection

Whether you're nestled in the countryside or living it up in the city, a foundation inspection is a non-negotiable component of any home inspection checklist. After all, nobody wants the headache of costly foundation repairs down the road. So if you're in the market for a new home, make sure you enlist the help of a pro to scrutinize every inch of the foundation. Trust us, it's well worth the investment.

On the exterior inspection here are some of the things they will look for:

• Foundation cracks

• Crumbling or chipping concrete

• Water damage

• Gaps on exterior doors frames

• Gaps on exterior window frames

 

Excess moisture can cause wooden beams to rot and attract termites. Inspectors will at least want to check the crawl space for:

• Heavy dampness

• Standing water

• Beams that curve

• Beams that lean

• Termite damage

 

Within the interior, they will often check:

• The elevation to see if the home is level

• Damaged or sloping floors

• Bulging or leaning walls

• Vertical cracks

• Cracks in staircases that zig-zag

• Doors that stick or don't open or close correctly

• Cabinets and counters that separate from the wall

 

Step into your home with confidence by ensuring your foundation passes all necessary tests during your inspection. Look for signs of heaving, settling, sinking, or shifting to avoid any potential headaches down the road. With a little attention to detail, you'll have peace of mind knowing your home is secure and that your home has passed the test.

Roof Inspection

When you're on the hunt for a new home, it's crucial to check every nook and cranny to ensure you're getting the best bang for your buck. And while it may not be the most glamorous aspect of a home, the roof is certainly worth a closer look. That's where a contractor comes in, scaling the heights to check for any signs of wear and tear. From missing shingles to worn-out areas and potential leaks, they'll assess the roof's overall condition and how much life it has left.

Also, you should not forget about the chimney when inspecting your new home. Make sure you check any other ventilation pipes that might be lurking on the roof. If the roofer gives you a certificate stating your roof is good for a set number of years, that's a good sign. But if not, don't worry as they can usually fix it up to tip-top shape for you.

When buying a home, there are several things to consider before making an offer. One aspect that can greatly impact your homeowner's insurance rate, especially in hurricane-prone areas like Florida, is the condition of the roof. Not all states have the same rigorous standards, so it's important to do your research. But even if the roof is brand new, it's a good idea to have it visually inspected.

 

Attic Inspection

You must add an attic inspection to your home inspection checklist as it's a crucial spot for detecting major issues with the house. During a thorough inspection, the inspector will crawl through the attic, searching for any signs of leaks, dampness, and mold. This expert will be looking at everything from ventilation to insulation. In fact, missing or damaged insulation is a common problem that may need attention. They’ll also keep an eye out for pesky critters and creepy crawlies that may have made themselves at home.

While purchasing a brand new house may decrease the likelihood of wood damage, infestation, and other attic issues, it's never a bad idea to be cautious and have a thorough inspection. An attic inspection isn’t just something to do in an old home inspection; even a brand-new home should be checked.

After an inspection is completed in the home-buying process, it's time to gather your thoughts and decide if anything needs to be fixed before closing the deal. Don't forget to have all your mortgage documents in order and get those inspections done ASAP so you can negotiate if necessary.

We hope this new home inspection checklist has been helpful. When it comes to Pulte’s new construction homes, you can rest assured knowing that it has gone through multiple inspections throughout the build process. They’ll keep you informed every step of the way toward your dream house. 

Discover stunning floor plans and check out Pulte's new home communities today! For more design tips, local attraction guides, and homeowner lifestyle articles, check out the Pulte Homes blog for inspiration.

 

Contributed to the Pulte Homes blog by Carol Youmans