A home inspection is a professional, visual evaluation of a residential property's condition at the time of the inspection. It identifies observable defects, safety issues, and maintenance needs, and provides a snapshot of the property's systems and components. An inspection helps buyers make informed decisions, assists sellers in preparing a property for market, and helps homeowners maintain their investment.

Typical components inspected

• Exterior

  • Roof covering (shingles, tiles, metal) — condition, signs of leaks, missing or damaged materials

  • Flashing, gutters, downspouts — attachment, drainage, evidence of blockage or poor function

  • Chimney and masonry — visible condition, leaning, cracked mortar, damaged caps

  • Siding, trim, and exterior finishes — rot, deterioration, secure attachment

  • Doors, windows, and exterior stains/peeling paint

  • Grading and drainage — slope away from foundation, signs of standing water

  • Porches, decks, stairs, railings — structural stability and safety

• Roof structure and attic

  • Roof framing (visible portions) — sagging, structural issues

  • Attic insulation and ventilation — type, depth, adequacy, signs of moisture

  • Roof sheathing and visible leaks or stains

  • Attic access and observable pests or animal damage

• Foundation and crawlspace

  • Visible foundation condition — cracks, settlement, efflorescence

  • Crawlspace moisture, vapor barriers, ventilation, and support piers

  • Interior signs of structural movement (cracked walls, doors that stick)

• Structural components

  • Floors, walls, and ceilings — damage, sagging, cracks

  • Beams, columns, and load-bearing elements (visible portions)

• Plumbing system

  • Water supply pipes and visible fixtures — material, leaks, corrosion

  • Drain, waste, and vent systems — obvious leaks, drainage issues

  • Water heater — type, age, condition, venting, signs of leakage

  • Functional water flow and drainage at fixtures

  • Visible gas piping and connections (if applicable)

• Electrical system

  • Service entrance, meter, main panel, branch panels — service size, condition, proper labeling

  • Circuit breakers or fuses — obvious signs of hazards

  • Receptacles, switches, and GFCI/AFCI protection in required locations

  • Visible wiring methods and junction boxes (safety and code-related concerns noted where obvious)

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

  • Heating system — type, operation, visible condition, venting

  • Air conditioning systems — operation, condensers and coils (visible components)

  • Ductwork — visible condition, connection integrity

  • Thermostat operation and general performance

• Interior components

  • Doors and windows — operation, seals, locks

  • Built-in appliances — basic operation (oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal)

  • Cabinets, countertops, and interior finishes

  • Stairs, handrails, and safety features

• Insulation and ventilation

  • Insulation levels in accessible areas (attic, crawlspace)

  • Ventilation systems for attic, bath fans, kitchen venting

  • Signs of inadequate ventilation or moisture buildup (mold staining, condensation)

• Safety items

  • Visible smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (presence and placement)

  • Handrails, guardrails, stair safety

  • Evidence of hazardous materials (limited visual identification: asbestos-like materials, lead paint concerns noted as observations)

  • Trip hazards, obvious electrical hazards, and other immediate safety concerns

• Environmental and specialty concerns (often optional or recommended as separate inspections)

  • Radon testing

  • Mold inspection and testing

  • Pest and termite inspection

  • Water quality testing

  • Sewer scope inspection

  • Asbestos or lead-based paint testing

  • Solar Panel/Sytem

  • Meth/Illegal Substance

What an inspection does not do

• It is not a code compliance inspection or a guarantee of future performance.

• Inspectors do not dismantle systems or perform invasive testing (unless specifically contracted).

• It does not typically include detailed engineering analysis or testing for all possible contaminants unless ordered separately.

Report and next steps After the inspection, you receive a written report summarizing findings, photos, and recommended actions or further evaluations by a specialists. Use the report to negotiate repairs, plan maintenance, or prioritize safety improvements.

If you’d like, Red Hills Home Inspections can provide a sample report or outline specific add-on tests (radon, mold, etc.).