What to Expect from a Home Inspection
Peace of mind starts here.
The Role of a Home Inspector
Home inspectors don’t all do things exactly the same way, but most follow similar standards regulated by state law or certification agencies.
Home inspectors are generalists—we know a lot about many systems, but we’re not specialists. That’s why you might see:
💬 “Recommend further evaluation by a qualified [trade] contractor.”
This isn’t a cop-out—it’s how responsible inspectors escalate potential issues to professionals in the relevant field.
What Does a Home Inspection Include?
Scope of Inspection
A home inspection is:
- Non-invasive
- Visual
- Based on what’s accessible
Inspectors don’t move furniture, open walls, or test in ways that cause damage.
✅ We Typically Do:
- Remove furnace access panel
- Remove electrical panel “dead front” cover
- Operate key systems
❌ We Don’t:
- Move furniture (or boxes and other small items)
- Inspect behind walls
- Operate portable appliances
Systems We Inspect
🏠 Roof
We walk it if we can safely. If not, we inspect with ladders or drones.
✔ General condition
✔ Damage or installation issues
🧱 Foundation
We check:
- Grading and water drainage
- Cracks and structural movement
- Bowing or shifting walls
🚿 Plumbing
✔ Run most fixtures (not portable appliances)
✔ Look for leaks and pressure
✔ Identify older plumbing types
⚡ Electrical
✔ Inspect outlets, lights, GFCIs
✔ Open main panel (if accessible and safe)
✔ Identify outdated or unsafe wiring
🌡️ HVAC
✔ Identify age of systems
✔ Test heating & cooling (weather permitting)
✔ Measure temperature differentials
🔥 Fireplaces
✔ Check damper, firebox, chimney
⚠ Level 2 inspection not included
🧱 Structure
✔ Attic trusses & rafters
✔ Floor joists & subfloors
✔ Basement beams/posts
🌬️ Venting & Insulation
✔ Attic insulation & airflow
✔ Crawlspace/basement insulation
✔ Look for moisture issues
🪟 Exterior
✔ Siding & trim
✔ Paint & caulking
✔ Window exteriors
🏠 Interior
✔ Walls, ceilings, floors
✔ Doors and windows
✔ Handrails, stairs, etc.
How Long Does It Take?
⏱ Smaller homes: ~2 hours
⏱ Average homes: 3–4 hours
⏱ Exceptionally large homes can take even longer
Inspection time varies based on not just home size, but also age, condition, and other factors.
❓ Still Have Questions?
Check out our FAQ or Blog for more helpful info.
📱 Call or text 712-274-2740 – yes, really, I’m happy to answer your questions!
When you’re ready, consider Smart Choice Inspections—serving buyers and homeowners with professionalism and care.
