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Buyer's inspection checklist

Use it alongside your inspector, not instead of one. Your ticks are saved in this browser, and the page prints cleanly for inspection day.

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Before inspection day

Read the Transfer Disclosure Statement and Seller Property Questionnaire Read the Natural Hazard Disclosure (flood, fire, fault and seismic zones) Request permits for additions, remodels, roof, HVAC and solar Book the general home inspection Book the termite (wood-destroying organisms) inspection Decide on add-ons: sewer camera, pool, chimney, roof, mold, radon Send the inspector your questions from the disclosures

Outside

Roof covering, flashing and gutters Soil and patios slope away from the house Downspouts discharge away from the foundation Stucco or siding: cracks, gaps, buried weep screed Decks, balconies, stairs and railings Retaining walls and slopes Fences, gates and pool barriers

Structure

Foundation cracks: width and offset Crawlspace: moisture, posts, anchor bolts Doors and windows that stick in several rooms Sloping or soft floors

Systems

Main electrical panel: brand, size, condition GFCI protection in kitchen, baths, garage, exterior Water heater: age, straps, relief valve discharge, venting Supply pipe and drain materials Water pressure (around 80 psi or less) Furnace and air conditioner: age, operation, venting Gas connectors, shutoffs and sediment traps

Inside

Ceiling and wall stains Under every sink Windows: operation, failed seals, tempered glass, bedroom egress Smoke alarms in bedrooms, hallways and every level Carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level Garage-to-house door and fire separation Attic: insulation, ventilation, leaks, rodents Fireplace and chimney Built-in appliances and dryer vent

After the report

Read the summary and safety items first Get specialist estimates for items flagged for evaluation Check appliance model numbers for recalls Get insurance quotes Send a repair or credit request before the contingency deadline Final walkthrough: repairs done, receipts received, nothing new

Want to know what each item means? Start with what gets inspected and the hazard library.

Progressive InspectionAn independent guide to home inspections

Plain-language guides to what a home inspector checks, what the findings mean, and what to do next. Written for buyers, sellers and owners in Southern California and beyond.

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