Home inspections in San Diego, CA

San Diego’s canyons run through many neighborhoods, so a home on a quiet street may still back onto brush. Fire hardening and slope drainage are relevant well inside the city.

In older neighborhoods, termite reports, sewer laterals and wiring are often the biggest variables. Downtown condos shift the focus to association documents and building systems.

What inspectors commonly look at in San Diego

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

1. Drywood termites

   Drywood termites are common throughout coastal Southern California. The separate termite report will say whether fumigation or local treatment is recommended. Read the guide

2. Knob-and-tube and early wiring

   Homes from before the 1940s can still have knob-and-tube wiring in walls and attics. Insurers often ask about it, and it lacks a ground. Read the guide

3. 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

4. Original sewer laterals

   Older neighborhoods often still have their original clay or cast iron sewer lines. A camera inspection is inexpensive compared with a surprise replacement. Read the guide

5. Salt air corrosion

   Near the coast, salt air shortens the life of air conditioner coils, metal flashing, railings, fasteners and electrical boxes. Inspectors look for rust on anything metal. 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 San Diego building department, to compare with additions and remodels.
• HOA documents, if the property is in an association.
• Termite report, customary in California transactions.