What a home inspection covers
A standard inspection follows the house from the roof down to the foundation. Each guide below explains what the inspector looks at, what they can't see, and which findings need a specialist.
- Roof inspectionWhat a home inspector checks on a roof, how long common roofing materials last in Southern California, and which findings deserve a roofer's second look.
- Plumbing inspectionHow inspectors evaluate supply pipes, drains, water heaters and fixtures, with the pipe materials and water heater rules California buyers should know.
- Electrical inspectionWhat an inspector checks in the service, main panel, wiring and outlets, plus the panel brands and wiring types that come up most often in reports.
- Heating and air conditioning inspectionHow inspectors evaluate furnaces, wall heaters, heat pumps and air conditioners, and why a cracked heat exchanger or an old refrigerant type matters.
- Foundation and structure inspectionSlab, raised and hillside foundations in Southern California, what cracks mean, and when to bring in a structural engineer.
- Attic, insulation and ventilationWhat an inspector looks for in the attic, from insulation depth and ventilation to roof leaks, rodents and old wiring.
- Windows, doors and interiorsHow inspectors check windows, doors, walls, ceilings, floors, stairs and railings, including tempered glass and emergency escape requirements.
- Built-in appliancesWhich kitchen and laundry appliances a home inspector tests, how they test them, and why recall checks are worth the extra minute.
- Exterior, grading and drainageStucco, siding, decks, driveways, grading and drainage are where many water problems start. Here is what inspectors check outside.
Most inspectors follow a written standard of practice, such as those published by ASHI, InterNACHI or CREIA. It defines what is included, what is excluded and how findings are reported. Ask for a copy before the inspection.