Buying a house is exciting, especially as you picture your future life in a potential home. Before you get carried away dreaming about where you’ll put the furniture, make sure the structure itself is in good condition. Carry out a thorough home inspection covering these five elements before putting any money down. 

5-Part Home Inspection Checklist 

1. Roof and Crawl Spaces

Check for any signs of damage to the roof, such as missing shingles or loose chimney bricks. Look in the attic for signs of water damage, which could indicate a leaky roof. Underneath the house, check crawl spaces, ensuring they are free of pests and moisture, and that any insulation is securely in place. 

2. Interior Rooms

When reviewing kitchens and bathrooms, check that any appliances and fixtures are properly working and installed. Ceilings, windows, lights, switches, and outlets need to be examined in every room. Something as innocuous as a bit of peeling paint could indicate structural damage from water leakage, for example.

3. Plumbing and Electricity

A thorough evaluation of the plumbing and electrical structures shouldn’t just assess whether everything is working properly but also how long you can expect these systems to last. Replacing a leaky water heater or faulty wiring costs a lot — you don’t want to find out this is needed mere months after you move in.

4. Heating and Cooling Systems

When it comes to HVAC systems, it’s important to examine ductwork, ventilation, filters, and flues. Red flags to watch out for include signs of rust or a strange odor. An asbestos check is also smart, especially in older buildings.

5. Foundations and Flooring

The integrity of the foundation can impact the entire structural stability of a house. There should be no cracks, sliding, or sinking. Some problems with the foundation can be seen from the inside, for instance, via fissures in flooring.

A home inspection is a complex, multi-faceted procedure, so it’s usually best to hire a professional for the job to avoid risking your investment. Inspect Hawaii of Honolulu, HI, carries out home inspections throughout most of Oahu. Their building inspectors are trained to use the latest cutting-edge technology, from thermal imaging to drone cameras. Check their website for a comprehensive list of their services. To talk to a professional about your needs, call (808) 330-2302.