Plumbing

Most people take for granted the benefits of plumbing systems and
fixtures—carrying the drinking water to, and the waste water away
from, your home. But even more people seldom consider the various
components and issues involving plumbing.

• Supply and waste systems
• Visual condition of accessible feed lines and connectors within structure 
• Visual condition of accessible waste lines/connections within structure
• Main vent stack
• Accessible well equipment
• Laundry tub
• Washer/dryer connections
• Hot water heater
• Interior sewer ejector pump

One of the most crucial components of a home is its electrical
system, which may pose some safety hazards if not properly maintained.

• Accessible wiring
• Service panel box
• Fuses and circuit breakers
• Service panel box
• Junction box covers
• Switch plate covers

There are two fundamental benefits of an effective attic ventilation
system: (1) a cooler attic in summer, and (2) a dryer attic in winter.
Both benefits result in energy saving, greater homeowner comfort
and higher structural integrity of the home.

• Access to attic
• Structural supports
• Roof backings Ceiling joist
• Flashing Insulation (visible attic only)
• Ventilation
• Whole house fan
• Evidence of water penetration

• Compressor Evaporator unit
• Service line
• Condenser drain
• Temperature at service line
• Electric disconnect
• Compressor slab Air

Air conditioning systems should be serviced every year at the beginning
of the cooling season. The exterior compressor/condenser units should
be kept clean and free of all leaves and debris; they should never be
covered or otherwise boxed-in, and shrubs and hedges should be cut
back. All of the above restricts the free flow of air, which reduces the
gas-to liquid process and overall efficiency of the system. In extreme
cases, this may cause damage to the compressor. Window units should be
removed during the heating season, because they allow an excessive
amount of heat loss when they are left in.

There’s probably nothing more miserable than sitting at home in the cold.
Most people depend on their home’s heating system to function properly
and keep them warm during the colder months. But like everything else,
if not properly maintained, your home’s heating system can malfunction.

• Emergency shut off
• Exposed flue and damper from heat plant
• Burner/Gun
• Fire box liner
• Boiler
• Circulator pump
• Zone valve and pipes
• Furnace, circulator fan and filter
• Duct work (in basement)
• Thermostats
• Fuel

There are a variety of exterior surfaces that are commonly found on
homes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. As a homeowner,
your single-most important consideration with regard to exterior surfaces
should be proper maintenance and upkeep.

• Condition of the roof surface
• Exterior chimney
• Exterior siding
• Exterior trim
• Exposed gutters and downspouts
• Foundations and sills
• Yard drainage and landscape
• Basement entrance
• Window wells
• Exterior outlets and lighting
• Any evidence of wood destroying insects
• Ground pitch (making sure it is away from the home)
• Exterior and interior of garage, decks, porches, walkways and driveways
• Retaining walls

• Structural inspection of accessible foundation, floor, walls and sills
• Complete inspection of doors including (operation) electric opener
• Fume barrier and fire door
• Fire grade sheetrock
• Roof
• Check for evidence of wood destroying insects

In the home inspection industry, the interior of the home refers to all the
finished surfaces on the interior walls, ceilings and floors as well as
components such as cabinets, doors, windows and stairs and handrails.
The finished interior of a home includes the internal structure and systems
(plumbing and electrical) and should be designed to provide a certain
level of comfort and aesthetic enjoyment.

• Fireplace/wood stove
• Stairway and handrail
• Halls
• Skylight
• Bathroom and all fixtures including tile/fiberglass
• Kitchen and all fixtures
• Appliances: stove, garbage disposal, dishwasher
• Ceilings, windows, walls, floors, doors, electrical outlets, heat sources in every room