.png){kind=logo}
Why A Home Inspection Is Essential
Whether you're buying a home or planning to sell your home, a home inspection checklist is crucial to ensure a smooth real estate transaction. A professional home inspection helps home buyers identify potential problems and gives home sellers a chance to address issues before listing. A thorough inspection provides peace of mind and can prevent costly surprises down the road.
This comprehensive home inspection checklist will guide both buyers and sellers on what to look for, helping you make informed decisions about a property’s condition.
What Is Included In A Home Inspection?
A standard home inspection covers all major systems and components of a house. A licensed home inspector will examine the exterior and interior of the property, looking for structural concerns, mechanical system failures, and safety hazards in the home you're trying to buy or sell.
A home inspector will review:
Foundation and Structure – Checking for cracks, shifting, and water damage
Roof and Attic – Inspecting shingles, ventilation, and insulation
Plumbing – Assessing pipes, drains, and signs of leaks
Electrical Systems – Checking wiring, outlets, and panel conditions
HVAC System – Examining the heating and cooling units, furnace, and air conditioner
Interior and Exterior – Evaluating walls, ceilings, doors, and windows
Safety Concerns – Testing smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and radon levels
By hiring a certified home inspector, you ensure that your inspection results meet industry standards, such as those set by the Canadian Association of Home Inspectors or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Home Inspection Checklist For Buyers
If you're a home buyer, this home inspection checklist will help you identify potential concerns before making a purchase.
1. Structural Integrity
Foundation cracks, uneven floors, or doors that don’t close properly
Signs of water damage, such as stains or musty odours in the basement
Sagging ceilings or warped walls, which can indicate shifting or settling
Damage to the roof shingles or away-from-house drainage issues
2. Roof And Exterior
Shingles – Look for curling, missing, or cracked shingles
Gutters and drainage – Ensure water is directed away from the house
Chimneys and flashing – Check for cracks or missing seals
Siding and exterior walls – Look for cracks, mould, or peeling paint
3. Plumbing And Water Systems
Leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in basements
Water pressure and flow rate in showers and faucets
Rust, corrosion, or inefficiency of the water heater
Proper drainage from sinks, tubs, and outdoor areas
Pipes for any signs of lead paint or outdated materials
4. Electrical Systems
An updated electrical panel with sufficient capacity
Properly grounded outlets and functioning light switches
No exposed wiring or flickering lights
Presence of carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors
5. HVAC System
The age and efficiency of the furnace and air conditioner
Signs of wear, rust, or inefficiency
Regular maintenance records for HVAC system servicing
6. Interior Safety Checks
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working
Signs of radon or mould growth in basements
Doors and windows function properly and lock securely
Evidence of pest infestations (droppings, chewed wood, or nests)
7. Additional Tests And Inspections
Radon levels to ensure safe air quality
Lead paint testing, especially in homes built before 1978
Mold and water damage assessments
Pest inspections for termites, rodents, or other critters
The Home Inspection Report
First-time home buyers should ask for a detailed home inspection report to understand all findings and potential repairs. A home inspection may reveal hidden issues, so buyers may negotiate repairs or pricing adjustments based on the inspection results.
Home Inspection Checklist For Sellers
If you're looking to sell your home, a pre-listing home inspection can make the selling process smoother by addressing any issues that may deter buyers.
1. Get A Pre-Listing Home Inspection
A pre-listing home inspection allows you to identify potential repairs before listing. Hiring a professional home inspector can prevent last-minute negotiations and help attract confident buyers.
2. Address Repairs Before Listing
Fix any leaks in the plumbing
Replace damaged shingles on the roof
Ensure all detectors and safety alarms are working
3. Prepare For Buyer’s Inspection
A home inspector may uncover minor or major concerns during the buyer’s inspection. Sellers should:
Declutter and provide easy access to HVAC, electrical systems, and plumbing
Have service records for the furnace, air conditioner, and water heater
Address pest problems in advance
4. Understand The Inspection Report
After a complete home inspection, the inspection report provides a detailed breakdown of the home’s condition. Sellers should review the report carefully and decide whether to repair or disclose issues. Ask your home inspector if you have questions during inspection day!
Home buyers may request price adjustments based on the inspection results, so sellers must be prepared to negotiate.
How Much Does A Home Inspection Cost?
The cost of a home inspection depends on the home size, location, and inspection business. Additional tests, like radon, pest, or lead paint testing, may increase the total price. While getting a home inspection may seem like an extra expense, it provides peace of mind and prevents unexpected repairs after moving in. View our rates here.
Final Thoughts: Why You Need A Home Inspection
A good home inspection is essential for both home buyers and sellers. Whether you're purchasing a home or preparing to sell your home, a thorough home inspection ensures transparency and avoids future headaches.
✔ Buyers – A comprehensive home inspection checklist helps identify potential problems before committing to a purchase.
✔ Sellers – A pre-listing home inspection can make the selling process smoother and prevent last-minute negotiations.
✔ Hiring a professional home inspector ensures an accurate evaluation of the condition of the home.
✔ Reviewing inspection reports allows both parties to negotiate repairs or pricing based on findings.
By following this inspection checklist, buyers and sellers across Canada can navigate the home buying process with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced homeowner, investing in a complete home inspection will give you the peace of mind you need. Looking to hire a home inspector? Give us a call!