The following list will give you a better idea of some of the systems and components we inspect during a typical home inspection. We also recommend you review the OAHI Standards of Practice listed on this site.

STRUCTURAL
Foundation & support columns; floor and wall systems (joists, beams, sub-flooring, connections, end bearing, fastenings, etc.); roof structure (rafters or trusses, ceiling joists, collar ties, knee walls, sheathing, etc.); masonry chimney structures; signs of movement; water infiltration and deterioration; missing and/or relocated components; cracks and settlement; improper installations; general wear and tear, and so on.

ROOFING
Roof coverings on sloped and flat roofs; roof flashings; roof vents; roof drainage system (eavestroughs and downspouts); chimneys; skylights; solariums; any other roof penetrations, general wear and tear; signs of leakage and deterioration; vulnerable areas; improper installations, and so on.

EXTERIOR
Siding; trim; windows; doors; walkways; driveways; patios; porches; wood decks; stairs; railing; eaves; window wells; basement entrances; fascia & soffits; detached garages; lot grading and drainage; retaining walls; signs of water infiltration and vulnerable areas; wood/soil contact; safety issues, such as missing railings and trip hazards; conditions that may promote wet basements; improper installations, and so on.

ELECTRICAL
Main entrance wiring and main service panel; sub-panels; copper or aluminum branch circuit wiring; adequacy of wiring; system grounding; receptacles, switches, and lighting throughout the house; “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt” receptacles (GFCIs); improper installations; unsafe conditions; over-current protection (properly sized fuses or breakers); inadequate lighting and outlets; improperly wired and/or ungrounded outlets, and so on.

HEATING
Energy type and source (fuel); furnace type, age, size; operational check of pilot, burners, blower fan, flue pipes, humidifier, thermostat, air cleaner; automatic safety controls; combustion air supply; exhaust vent pipe; gas lines; distribution system (supply and return ductwork or heating pipes); registers and radiators; improper installations; unsafe conditions; heat source for every room; back drafting of heating appliances; clearance to combustibles; serviceability, and so on. (Please note; visibility of heat exchangers is severely limited by furnace design and accessibility.)

COOLING
Type of unit, approximate age, size; operational check of compressor motor (weather permitting), condenser coil, fan motor; pumps; ducts; piping with supports; dampers; insulation; air filters; registers; cooling source for every room; improper installation; serviceability, and so on.

INSULATION AND VENTILATION
Where visible: Insulation and vapour barriers in unfinished areas; ventilation in attics, crawlspaces and basements; kitchen, bathroom, and laundry venting systems; missing insulation; exhaust ducts not vented to the exterior; improper installation, and so on.

PLUMBING
Main water supply valve; pressure & flow; drain, waste, and vent systems; water supply piping; drain traps; sinks; faucets; bathtubs; showers; tub/shower enclosures; toilets; water heater; gas meter & piping; signs of leakage and cross contamination; defective or non-functioning fixtures; improper installations; general wear and tear, and so on.

INTERIOR
Walls; ceilings; floors; doors; windows; stairs; railings; fireplaces; kitchen cabinets and countertops; second apartments; general wear and tear; signs of leakage and condensation; cracks in plaster; safety issues such as missing handrails and improper stairway lighting; improper installations, and so on.