Guide · US edition · Updated 2026-10-29

Home Inspection Checklist for Buyers: What To Ask and Look For

An inspection is your chance to find expensive problems before the inspection contingency deadline passes. Book the inspector as soon as your offer is accepted.

Choosing an inspector

☐ Licensed or certified as your state requires
☐ Insured; ask for a sample report
☐ Ask what's included and what costs extra

What a general inspection usually covers

Roof, attic and insulation
Foundation and structure
Plumbing and water heater
Electrical panel and wiring (visible parts)
Heating and cooling
Windows, doors and exterior
Basement or crawlspace, for moisture

Consider extra inspections

☐ Sewer scope, especially in older homes or homes with large trees
☐ Radon test (the EPA recommends testing)
☐ Termites / wood-destroying insects
☐ Mold, if you see or smell signs
☐ Lead paint, for homes built before 1978
☐ Well and septic, if the home has them
☐ Chimney

On inspection day

☐ Attend if you can, and ask questions
☐ Ask: "What would you fix first? What's normal for a house this age?"
☐ Find the main water shut-off and the electrical panel

Reading the report

Sort findings into:

Safety issues (electrical, gas, structure, radon)
Major costs (roof, foundation, HVAC, sewer line)
Maintenance (caulking, small repairs)

Negotiating

Focus on safety and major items. You can ask the seller to repair, give a credit at closing, or lower the price. Get written quotes for big items. Respect your deadline.

General information, not legal or real estate advice.

The First-Time Home Buyer Binder includes an inspection checklist and an issues tracker with estimated costs.

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18-page binder from pre-approval to closing: affordability worksheet, Loan Estimate comparison, showing scorecard, inspection, wire-fraud check and closing day. Instant download: PDF + DOCX + XLSX.

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