Home Inspection Checklist

Exterior Features

After spending so much time inside the home, our home inspection efforts turn to the exterior features. We cannot stress enough how important curb appeal is in the processes of selling a home. If you can't get a prospective buyer out of their car, you have absolutely no chance of getting them to buy your home. We have already gone over the structural elements of the home. (If you missed that checklist Home Inspection Checklist - Structure you can click on this link.) Now we need to focus on the exterior features that are part of the property. A home inspection will typically examine these property features:

√ Landscaping

• Check that the land or grade around the home slopes away from the foundation.
• Make sure that there are no dead trees, shrubs or plants of any kind.
• Grassy areas should show no evidence of pests or any dead spots which might indicate an underlying problem.

• Are the sidewalks, walkways and driveway free from large cracks? Are there areas of settling that might pose a tripping hazard? Any areas look worn or in need of repair?
• Is the front porch or stoop in good repair? Are the railings, posts and spindles sturdy and in good condition?
• Are the exterior lights and landscape lighting working properly?
• Check the deck to see if any boards or railings need replacing or staining/painting. Decks are another popular do-it-yourself project so be sure that the footings and framing have been done to code so that the deck is sturdy. Make sure the deck pitches away from the house for good drainage.
• Do the retaining walls look straight and true? Is the support for the walls adequate? Do any mortar joints need repair?
• If there is a fence on the property, is it in good repair? Do the gates and latches work well?
• Swimming pools and spas should be checked for leaks, good pumps and filters. The tile, coping and pool bottom should be examined for repairs. Pool skimmers should also operate properly.
• If there is a sprinkling system for the yard, inspect the system for sprinkler head failures or leaks.

• Any outbuildings such as sheds or detached garages should be in good repair with no signs of leaks. Sheds need to be dry and well maintained. Detached garages must pass the same inspection points for structure and mechanical systems.
• Balconies should be inspected. Pay special attention to the hand rail and posts to make sure they are sturdy. The balcony floor should not show any kind of damage or deterioration.

A quick note.

Finally!