Always start by mentioning any of your own concerns. – Click here for a printable version

Interior Checklist

Attic / Basement

• Can you get to the attic easily?
• Is the attic well ventilated?
• Are there any signs of water damage in the attic?
• Does the basement smell damp or musty?
• Are there any signs of water damage in the basement?
• Are there any cracks in the foundation?

Fireplace / HVAC

• Is the mortar on the fireplace crumbling or loose?
• Do you see smoke stains around the exterior of the firebox?
• Is there any creosote buildup in the firebox?
• Do I need a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) inspection?

Water / Electricity

• Is the shut-off switch on the water heater easy to access?
• Will the size of the water heater suit your needs?
• Is the fuse box/main panel easy to access?
• Is the electrical up to code and good enough for this home?
• Are there enough outlets in each room?
• Do all of the electrical outlets work?

Walls, Floors, Windows and Doors

• Are there any water spots on ceilings, walls, or floors throughout the house?
• Is the drywall pulling away?
• Are there any cracks in the walls?
• Do any of the floors slope?
• Are any of the doors or windows broken?
• Are the doors properly sealed?
• Are there any signs of mold/mildew on the windows/sills?

Bathroom

• Is the bathroom well ventilated?
• Is the caulking around the bathtub or shower moldy or missing?
• Is the tub or shower cracked?
• Run the faucets. How is the pressure? Do they drain properly?
• Does the bathroom floor feel spongy and/or have any loose tiles?

Kitchen

• Is there ventilation above all cooking appliances in the kitchen?
• Are the kitchen cabinets secured to the wall?
• Run the faucet. How is the pressure? Does it drain properly?
• Are there any signs of leaking under the kitchen sink or refrigerator?
• Does the kitchen floor feel spongy and/or have any loose tiles?

Exterior Checklist

• Is the balcony/deck built to code?
• Is the balcony/deck pitched away from the home for proper drainage?
• Are the railings/steps safe and secure?
• If the exterior is made of wood, are there any signs of rot or termite damage?
• If the exterior is made of brick, are the bricks and mortar in good condition?
• Is the mortar on the chimney crumbling or loose?
• Are any shingles on the roof broken, buckled, or missing?
• Are the gutters/drain spouts in good shape?
• Is the foundation solid?
• Are there any cracks in the foundation?
• Is there any water in the yard or around the foundation?
• Is the driveway/walkway cracked or uneven?
• Does the driveway/walkway drain properly?

General Questions

• What are the common problems you find in homes from this era?
• (If you need repairs) Do you have any idea what this might cost?
• (If you need repairs) Can you recommend anyone who could do the work?
• If this was your house, what would you fix and when?
• May I call you if I have any follow-up questions?