A home inspection is a vital part of the buying process. It can reveal problems the sellers might fix before you move in and help you avoid costly surprises down the road.

Your real estate agent can recommend reputable inspectors, and you should try to attend the inspection if possible. This will allow you to follow the inspector and ask questions.

Roof

Home inspectors check the roof for damage, leaking and other concerns. They look for signs of leaks in the attic and around the venting systems, such as ridge vents, soffit vents and gable vents. They also examine the rafters, joists and decking of the roof structure and, if accessible, the interior attic ceiling for signs of mold, pest infestations or water stains.

If they can’t access the roof due to inaccessible crawl spaces, locked doors or unsafe conditions, they recommend further specialized inspections for radon and other risks. They may also advise on an approximate timeframe for the repair or replacement of the roof.

Foundation

Any time a home inspector finds cracks in a foundation, it is important to call a professional. It is a good idea to find out what kind of foundation the house has, such as slab, crawl space or pier and beam.

A home inspector will take an exterior walkaround to check for damage, such as a shift in the foundation walls. He or she will also look for sloping floors and jammed doors.

A home inspector may enter a crawl space to examine the foundation for wet areas, rotting wood elements and musty odors. He or she will also look at piers and support beams.

Electrical

Never purchase a home without having its electrical and plumbing systems inspected by a professional. A home inspector will ensure that all the wiring is up to code and that it’s properly shielded and rated for amperage. He or she will also check that the circuit breaker is an adequate size for the home’s needs and that all outlets are functioning correctly. This includes checking for frayed wires, which are a serious safety hazard and should be replaced.

GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets are required in areas that encounter water, such as kitchen outlets and bathrooms. Your inspector will confirm that these are present where they should be and that they work.

Plumbing

The plumbing is a vital component of your home that is often overlooked until something goes wrong. During a plumbing inspection, professionals examine the indoor and outdoor pipes to ensure they are safe and functional.

Inspectors look for leaky faucets and showerheads, clogged drains and water heaters that are nearing the end of their lifespan. They also check for proper drainage and venting.

Preparing your home for a plumbing inspection can help make the process go more smoothly. You should clean the fixtures, know where the main water shut-off is and clear any work areas to give plumbers space to move around. This will help them identify issues and recommend repairs sooner rather than later.

HVAC

A professional HVAC inspection checks for electrical connections, air ducts and thermostats that are sized appropriately. They also ensure that air ducts are sealed properly and free from obstructions, allowing for proper air flow.

In addition, a technician can test to make sure thermostats read temperatures correctly and that the system cycles on and off efficiently. An inspection can help homeowners identify areas where simple lubrication or minor repairs can increase system efficiency.

For home sellers or buyers, addressing maintenance issues prior to listing a property prevents last-minute surprises and helps speed the transaction process. In the long run, proactive maintenance also reduces repair bills and extends equipment lifespan.

Interior

A home inspector will focus on the major components and systems of a house. They’ll note any visible problems, deterioration or irregularities.

They’ll also look at windows, doors and their frames, as well as any porches and decks. The inspector will also examine the lot and grounds for grading, drainage and other issues.

It’s a good idea for buyers to be present during the inspection, if possible. That way, they can ask questions and get clarification on any issues the inspector finds. It’s also a great time to get the inspector’s opinion on whether any repairs or replacements are needed. This is especially important for older homes.