Home inspections in Aliso Viejo, CA

Because so much of Aliso Viejo is attached housing, many buyers need a condo or townhome inspection rather than a full single-family one. The unit inspection covers what you will own; the association documents tell you about the roofs, siding, plumbing stacks and balconies you will share.

Homes from the late 1980s and 1990s are now at the age where water heaters, HVAC equipment, windows and roof underlayment come due.

What inspectors commonly look at in Aliso Viejo

These are the topics that come up most often for homes in and around Aliso Viejo. Every house is different, so treat them as a starting point for questions, not a prediction.

1. HOA documents

   Much of the housing is in associations. The reserve study, board minutes and CC&Rs often matter as much as the inspection report. Read the guide

2. Polybutylene and early plastic plumbing

   Homes built between the late 1970s and mid-1990s may have gray polybutylene supply pipe. Many have been repiped; ask for the invoice if so. Read the guide

3. Tile roof underlayment

   Concrete tile is everywhere here. The tiles last for decades, but the underlayment beneath them often wears out at 20 to 30 years. Look for slipped or broken tiles and staining in the attic. Read the guide

4. Wildfire exposure

   Homes next to open space and canyons may be in a mapped fire hazard severity zone. Check the Natural Hazard Disclosure, vents, roof rating and defensible space, and get an insurance quote early. Read the guide

5. Balcony inspection reports

   Condo associations with elevated wood balconies are subject to California's SB 326 inspection requirement. Ask whether the association has completed it. Read the guide

Paperwork to read before the inspection

• Transfer Disclosure Statement and the Seller Property Questionnaire, for known defects and past repairs.
• Natural Hazard Disclosure, for flood, fire, earthquake fault and seismic hazard zones.
• Permit history from the Aliso Viejo building department, to compare with additions and remodels.
• HOA documents, if the property is in an association.
• Termite report, customary in California transactions.