What's Included in a Typical Home Inspection?

No one wants a costly surprise after closing day. 

That’s why a home inspection is one of the most important steps in the homebuying process. It helps buyers understand the true condition of a property and gives inspectors the opportunity to identify routine maintenance needs and serious red flags.

A professional home inspection highlights everything from minor wear and tear to major issues that might cost thousands to repair. This guide breaks down what’s typically included in a standard home inspection—plus a visual you can save or share.

1. Roof

The roof is one of the most important components of any home—and one of the most expensive to repair or replace. 

During a home inspection, the inspector will evaluate the overall condition of the roof, including:

• Roof coverings (e.g., shingles, tiles)
• Gutters and downspouts
• Vents and flashing
• Skylights and chimneys
• Roof penetrations
• General structure and visible integrity

Depending on conditions, the inspector may or may not walk on the roof. In many cases, they’ll perform a visual inspection from a ladder or use tools such as drones or pole-mounted cameras to get a closer look.

2. Attic, Insulation & Ventilation

Proper insulation and ventilation play a big role in a home’s energy efficiency, air quality, and long-term durability. During the home inspection, the inspector will assess unfinished spaces to check for adequate airflow, insulation levels, and signs of moisture or damage. 

Inspectors will check unfinished spaces such as:

• Attics
• Crawlspaces
• Foundation areas
• Exhaust systems (e.g., bathroom, kitchen, laundry)

3. Exterior

A home inspection includes a full exterior check for signs of damage, deterioration, and safety issues. Inspectors look for areas that could lead to water intrusion, structural concerns, or costly repairs down the line. 

They'll inspect features such as:

• Siding and trim
• Windows and exterior doors
• Flashing
• Walkways and driveways
• Stairs, patios, and decks
• Drainage and grading around the foundation

4. Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace & Structure

This includes:

• Foundation movement or settlement
• Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings
• Structural damage or unpermitted modifications
• Signs of moisture or previous water intrusion
• Conditions in crawlspaces or unfinished basements

5. Cooling

Inspectors check the home’s cooling system to ensure it’s functioning properly and safely. A system that’s aging, damaged, or incorrectly installed can affect comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality. 

They’ll assess several key components, including:

• Condition and age of the cooling system
• System type (e.g., central air, ductless)
• Energy source
• Location and condition of the thermostat
• Visible signs of damage or improper installation

6. Heating

A properly functioning heating system is essential for safety, comfort, and efficiency, especially in colder climates. Inspecting the heating system involves evaluating for performance, safety concerns, and signs of wear.

They'll typically examine the:

• Condition and age of the heating system
• System type (e.g., furnace, boiler, heat pump)
• Energy source
• Location and condition of the thermostat
• Visible signs of damage, corrosion, or poor maintenance

7. Fireplace

Fireplaces can add charm and warmth to a home, but they also come with safety considerations. Inspectors will examine the visible components to check for damage, proper operation, and signs of poor maintenance. 

They'll look at the:

• Firebox and chimney structure (visible portions only)
• Lintels (the support above the fireplace opening)
• Damper doors
• Clean-out doors and frames
• Signs of creosote buildup, damage, or obstruction

8. Plumbing

Plumbing issues can be costly and hard to detect without a trained eye. During this part of the home inspection, the inspector will check for leaks, corrosion, drainage issues, and signs of water damage throughout the home. 

They’ll review visible plumbing components such as:

• Main water and fuel supply shut-off valves
• Water heater
• Interior water supply lines
• Toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers
• Drains and waste lines
• Venting systems for proper airflow

9. Electrical

Electrical problems can pose serious safety risks, so inspectors pay close attention to the home’s wiring and components. During the electrical inspection, they’ll assess visible systems to ensure proper function, grounding, and safety. 

This typically involves checking the:

• Service drop (where power connects to the home)
• Service entrance conductors, head, and mast
• Main electrical panel and subpanels
• Panel grounding and bonding
• Light fixtures, outlets, and switches
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

10. Doors, Windows & Interior

Inspectors also check interior elements to identify visible defects, safety hazards, or signs of underlying issues such as moisture intrusion or structural movement. 

They’ll inspect a representative sample of:

• Interior doors and windows
• Floors, walls, and ceilings
• Stairs and railings
• Garage doors and automatic openers

The inspector may not test every door or window, but they’ll check enough to get a general sense of condition and functionality throughout the home.

Common Extras and add-ons

Some inspections include optional services that go beyond a standard home inspection. These extras can uncover hidden issues that aren’t visible during a general walkthrough. 

• Mold testing: Air samples are collected and sent to a lab to check for elevated mold spores. Some tests may use surface swabs if visible mold is present. (If you can already see it, you may not need to test for it.)
• Radon testing: This test measures indoor air for elevated levels of radon gas, which can enter from contaminated soil and pose long-term health risks.
• Sewer scope inspection: A small camera is used to inspect the home’s sewer line for blockages, cracks, or root intrusion. Certain symptoms—such as slow drains or patches of soggy grass—may prompt inspectors to recommend this test.

Availability and pricing of these services vary by inspector and location, but they can provide valuable peace of mind, especially for older homes or properties with known risk factors.

After the Inspection: What Comes Next?

Once the inspection is complete, the client receives a detailed home inspection report outlining the findings. A clear, well-organized report helps everyone involved—from the buyer to the agent to the inspector—make confident, informed decisions.

The format may vary depending on the software the inspector uses, but the essentials should be the same: clear descriptions, high-quality images, and objective insights. If the inspector uses Spectora, the report will be interactive, mobile-friendly, and easy to understand, making next steps even easier to navigate.

Whether you’re reviewing an inspection or writing one, the report should be easy to navigate and built for action. Spectora makes it easier to deliver high-quality reports—and understand them. Sign up for your free trial today.