Home Inspection Checklist for First-Time Home Buyers

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but navigating the inspection process can feel overwhelming. You don't need to be a construction expert, but having a basic understanding of what an inspector looks for can help you ask the right questions and avoid costly mistakes.

To help you prepare and protect your budget (and your closing costs), use this beginner-friendly home inspection checklist.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

An inspection typically takes a few hours. It is highly recommended that you attend the inspection in person so you can see the issues firsthand and ask the inspector questions. The inspector will walk through the property, test systems, climb into the attic, and examine the exterior before providing you with a detailed, written report.

Key Areas Inspectors Check

Your inspector will handle the heavy lifting, but keeping your eyes on these categories will help you understand the condition of the home.

Roof and Exterior

• Are shingles cracked, missing, or curling?
• Are the gutters clear and attached securely?
• Is the siding damaged, rotting, or pulling away from the house?
• Does water drain away from the foundation properly?

Foundation

• Are there visible, significant cracks in the foundation walls?
• Do the floors sag, dip, or feel uneven?
• Are trees or large roots growing too close to the foundation?

Plumbing

• Do all faucets, showers, and toilets have adequate water pressure?
• Is there any evidence of leaks under sinks or around toilets?
• How old is the water heater, and is it showing signs of rust?

Electrical System

• Are there any exposed, un-spliced wires?
• Do all the light switches and outlets work properly?
• Does the electrical panel look modernized and safe, with no scorch marks?

HVAC System

• How old are the furnace and air conditioning units?
• Do both heating and cooling systems turn on and run quietly?
• Are the air filters clean, and is the ductwork in good shape?

Attic and Insulation

• Is there sufficient insulation to keep energy bills low?
• Are there water stains on the underside of the roof deck?
• Is the attic properly ventilated?

Basement or Crawlspace

• Is there a damp or musty odor indicating water intrusion?
• Are there water stains on the walls or floor?
• Is there exposed, untreated wood showing signs of rot or pest damage?

Windows and Doors

• Do all windows open, close, and lock smoothly?
• Are there broken seals or condensation trapped between double-pane glass?
• Do exterior doors seal tightly against drafts?

Appliances

• If appliances are included in the sale, do the oven, stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator operate properly?
• Are built-in microwaves or garbage disposals fully functional?

Questions to Ask the Inspector

Don't be afraid to speak up during the inspection. Ask questions like:

• "Is this a major structural defect or a minor cosmetic issue?"
• "How much longer do you think this roof (or HVAC system) will last?"
• "If this were your house, what would you fix first?"
• "Are there any safety hazards I need to address immediately before moving in?"

After the Inspection

Once you receive the official report, review it carefully. Highlight major safety concerns or structural defects. You can use this report to negotiate with the seller to either perform repairs before closing or provide a credit toward your closing costs. If the repairs are too extensive and will break your budget, remember that your inspection contingency allows you to walk away.

To see how potential repairs might impact your overall homebuying budget, check out our Home Affordability Calculator.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection is your best opportunity to look under the hood of your future home. By following this checklist and staying engaged in the process, you can make a confident, informed decision and ensure your new home is a safe investment.