How to Conduct a Basic Home Inspection Yourself

Purchasing a home is a monumental milestone, often accompanied by excitement and anticipation. However, it also involves a significant financial commitment, making it essential to ensure that the property is in good condition before finalizing the purchase. While a professional pre-purchase building inspection is crucial, conducting a basic home inspection yourself can help identify potential issues early on. 

Preparing Yourself for Basic Home Inspection

Before you start a basic home inspection, gather the necessary tools: a flashlight, binoculars, a ladder, a notebook or a smartphone for taking notes and pictures, a screwdriver, and a voltage tester. Make sure you have a checklist to keep track of everything you inspect.

1. Exterior Inspection

1. Foundation and Structure: Begin with a walk around the exterior of the house. Look for visible cracks in the foundation, walls, and around windows and doors. Small hairline cracks may be normal, but larger cracks can indicate structural issues that might need professional attention.
2. Roof: Inspect the roof using binoculars or from a ladder. Look for missing, damaged, or curling shingles. Check for signs of wear and tear, such as sagging areas or visible leaks. Ensure gutters and downspouts are securely attached and free of debris to prevent water damage.
3. Siding and Exterior Walls: Examine the siding and exterior walls for damage, rot, or decay. Look for peeling paint, cracks, and areas where moisture might be entering. Check the caulking around windows and doors for gaps or deterioration.
4. Windows and Doors: Inspect all windows and doors for proper operation. Ensure they open and close smoothly, and that the locks function correctly. Look for moisture or condensation between panes of double-glazed windows, indicating a broken seal.
5. Driveway and Walkways:  During your property inspection, examine the driveway and walkways for cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces that could pose a tripping hazard. Ensure drainage systems are functioning properly to prevent water accumulation.

2. Interior Inspection

1. Attic: Access the attic and check for adequate insulation and ventilation. Look for signs of water damage, mold, or pests. Inspect the condition of the roof decking and rafters, and check for visible leaks.
2. Basement and Crawl Spaces: Examine the basement and crawl spaces for signs of moisture, water damage, or mold. Check for cracks in foundation walls and signs of pest infestations. Ensure the sump pump, if present, is working correctly.
3. Plumbing System: Check all visible plumbing pipes for leaks or signs of corrosion. Test all faucets, showers, and toilets for proper operation and water pressure. Look for any signs of water damage under sinks and around plumbing fixtures, and address any issues promptly with appropriate fixing and waterproofing. Ensure the water heater is functioning correctly and inspect it for signs of rust or leaks.
4. Electrical System: Inspect the electrical panel for signs of wear or damage. Ensure all circuit breakers are properly labeled and functioning. Test light switches and outlets to ensure they work correctly. Look for exposed wiring or other electrical hazards.
5. HVAC System: Check the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for proper operation. Inspect the furnace and air conditioning units for signs of wear or damage. Replace dirty or clogged air filters and ensure all vents and ducts are unobstructed.

3. Interior Rooms

Windows and Doors inspection by yourself

 

1. Walls, Ceilings, and Floors: Inspect all interior walls, ceilings, and floors for damage, cracks, or moisture. Look for uneven or sagging areas indicating structural issues. Pay attention to unusual stains or discoloration, which could signal water damage or mold.
2. Kitchen: Check the condition of all kitchen appliances, including the stove, oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Test the garbage disposal and exhaust fan. Inspect countertops, cabinets, and flooring for damage or wear.
3. Bathrooms: Inspect sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers for leaks, water damage, or mold. Check caulking and grout around tiles and fixtures for gaps or cracks where water could seep in.
4. Windows and Doors: Inside the home, ensure all windows and doors open and close properly. Check for drafts indicating poor insulation or sealing. Inspect locks and hardware, and look for moisture or condensation on window panes.

4. Safety Features

1. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in key areas, such as bedrooms and hallways. Test each detector to ensure proper functioning and replace batteries if necessary.
2. Fire Extinguishers: Check that fire extinguishers are present in the kitchen, garage, and other critical areas. Ensure they are accessible and that the pressure gauges indicate they are in working order.
3. Railings and Stairs: Inspect all railings and stairs for security and stability. Look for loose or damaged steps and ensure railings are properly anchored.

5. Outdoor Areas

1. Decks and Patios: Inspect decks and patios for signs of rot, decay, or damage. Ensure railings are secure and there are no loose or missing boards. Look for pest infestation signs, such as termite damage.
2. Landscaping: Check the landscaping around the home. Ensure trees and shrubs are not overgrown and are not too close to the house, which could damage the siding or foundation. Look for water pooling areas, indicating drainage issues.
3. Fencing and Gates: Inspect fencing and gates for damage or wear. Ensure gates open and close properly and that the fencing is secure and stable.

6. Additional Inspections

Pest and Termite Inspection During your DIY home inspection, it’s essential to look for signs of pest and termite infestations. Check for mud tubes, wood damage, and droppings around the foundation, basement, and attic. While a basic inspection can reveal visible signs, a professional pest and termite inspection is recommended for a thorough assessment.

7. When to Call a Professional

While a DIY home inspection can help you identify many potential issues, certain aspects of the inspection are best left to professionals. Pre-purchase building inspections conducted by certified building inspectors provide a comprehensive evaluation of the property’s condition, including hidden issues that a layperson might miss. Building inspectors have the expertise and tools necessary to assess the structural integrity, plumbing, electrical systems, and other critical components of the home.

Conclusion

Conducting a basic home inspection yourself can be a valuable step in the home buying process, helping you identify obvious issues before committing to a purchase. By taking the time to perform a preliminary or basic home inspection by yourself, you can address minor issues before they become major problems and make a more informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or negotiate repairs with the seller. Ultimately, a professional inspection ensures that your new home is a sound investment and provides peace of mind for years to come.