Pre-Purchase Home Inspection Checklist: 52 Critical Points
Why Most Homebuyers Miss Half of What Matters
You’ve found the house. It looks great. The kitchen’s updated, the paint is fresh, and honestly, you’re already picking out furniture in your head. But here’s the thing — what you can’t see is usually what costs you money down the road.
I’ve seen buyers walk through properties feeling confident, only to discover major issues hiding behind drywall or under that beautiful hardwood floor. And that’s exactly why a proper inspection matters more than most people realize.
If you’re buying property, understanding Home Inspection Services in Oromocto NB can save you thousands — maybe tens of thousands. This checklist covers 52 points that professionals examine during a thorough walkthrough. Whether you’re attending your inspection or reviewing a report, knowing what should be checked puts you in control.
Structural Components: The Bones of Your Investment
Everything else depends on structural integrity. A cracked foundation or sagging roofline isn’t just cosmetic — it affects every other system in the house.
Foundation and Basement (8 Points)
- Visible cracks in foundation walls — hairline versus structural
- Signs of water intrusion or past flooding
- Efflorescence (white mineral deposits) indicating moisture movement
- Floor slab condition and levelness
- Support posts and beams for damage or rot
- Sump pump operation and discharge location
- Window wells drainage
- Foundation wall bowing or shifting
Basement issues are sneaky. That slightly musty smell? Could mean moisture problems that’ll create mold down the line. According to home inspection standards, foundation problems rank among the most expensive repairs homeowners face.
Roof and Attic (7 Points)
- Shingle condition — curling, cracking, missing granules
- Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Gutter attachment and drainage
- Attic ventilation adequacy
- Insulation type, depth, and condition
- Signs of leaks or water staining
- Roof age estimation based on materials
A roof replacement runs $8,000 to $25,000 depending on size and materials. Knowing you’ve got five good years left versus needing replacement next spring? That changes your offer price.
Electrical System: More Than Just Lights Working
Electrical problems cause house fires. It’s that simple. And older homes especially need careful evaluation.
Electrical Checklist (9 Points)
- Main service panel capacity — 100 amp minimum for modern needs
- Panel condition and proper labeling
- Presence of Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels (known fire hazards)
- Aluminum wiring connections
- GFCI protection in kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior outlets
- AFCI protection in bedrooms
- Outlet condition and grounding
- Visible wiring condition in accessible areas
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detector presence
Here’s something most buyers don’t know — some older electrical panels have been recalled due to fire risk. A trained inspector identifies these immediately. If you’re looking for Home Inspection near Oromocto NB , Best Home Inspection in Oromocto, this is exactly the kind of expertise that separates a thorough evaluation from a quick walkthrough.
Plumbing: Water Damage Waits for Nobody
Water causes more insurance claims than almost anything else. Slow leaks destroy subfloors, create mold problems, and attract pests.
Plumbing Inspection Points (8 Points)
- Water heater age, condition, and proper venting
- Supply line material — copper, PEX, galvanized, or polybutylene
- Drain line condition and material
- Water pressure testing
- Visible leaks under sinks and around fixtures
- Toilet stability and flushing operation
- Main shutoff valve location and function
- Sewage system type and condition
Polybutylene pipes? That’s a potential negotiation point. They were installed in millions of homes but are prone to failure. Same with galvanized supply lines in older properties — they corrode from the inside out.
HVAC Systems: Comfort and Cost Control
Heating and cooling equipment doesn’t last forever. Knowing what you’re inheriting helps budget for future expenses.
HVAC Evaluation (7 Points)
- Furnace or boiler age and condition
- Air conditioning unit age and refrigerant type
- Heat exchanger inspection for cracks
- Ductwork condition and insulation
- Thermostat operation
- Filter condition and accessibility
- Flue pipe and venting safety
A cracked heat exchanger is actually dangerous — carbon monoxide can leak into living spaces. For expert assistance with heating system evaluation, Thorough Home Inspection Service offers reliable solutions that cover these critical safety items.
Exterior and Site Conditions
The outside of a house tells you a lot about how well it’s been maintained. Drainage problems cause foundation issues. Overgrown vegetation damages siding.
Exterior Checklist (8 Points)
- Siding condition — rot, damage, improper installation
- Grading slope away from foundation
- Driveway and walkway condition
- Deck and porch structural integrity
- Window and door condition, weatherstripping
- Chimney condition and cap presence
- Vegetation clearance from structure
- Retaining wall condition if present
Interior Spaces: Beyond the Surface
Fresh paint covers a lot. Inspectors look past cosmetic updates to spot underlying problems.
Interior Points (5 Points)
- Ceiling stains indicating roof or plumbing leaks
- Floor levelness and condition
- Window operation and seal integrity
- Door operation and frame condition
- Signs of pest activity — droppings, damage, entry points
That sticky door everyone ignores? Could indicate foundation settling. Or it could just need new hinges. But knowing which is which matters when you’re spending hundreds of thousands of dollars.
When you need Home Inspection Services in Oromocto NB, understanding this checklist helps you ask better questions and understand what your inspection report actually means. You can also learn more about helpful resources for homebuyers navigating this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a complete home inspection take?
Most thorough inspections run 2-4 hours depending on home size and age. Older homes or larger properties take longer because there’s simply more to evaluate. Rushing this process means missing stuff.
Should I attend the home inspection?
Absolutely. Walking through with your inspector lets you see issues firsthand and ask questions on the spot. You’ll understand the report way better than if you just read it later. Plus, inspectors often share maintenance tips that don’t make it into formal reports.
What problems typically kill real estate deals?
Major structural issues, significant foundation problems, and roof replacement needs are the big ones. Mold, knob-and-tube wiring, and failed septic systems also cause deals to fall apart. Home Inspection near Oromocto NB , Best Home Inspection in Oromocto helps buyers identify these dealbreakers before they’re committed.
Can I use the inspection report to negotiate price?
Yes, and that’s actually one of the main benefits. Documented issues give you concrete reasons to request repairs, price reductions, or seller credits. Having a detailed report with cost estimates strengthens your negotiating position significantly.
What won’t a home inspection cover?
Standard inspections don’t include specialized testing like radon, mold sampling, or pest inspections — those are usually separate services. Inspectors also can’t see inside walls or predict future problems. They evaluate current visible conditions.
