Home Inspection Checklist: 5 Things to Look for When Viewing a Home

A simple home inspection checklist can help you look beyond paint colours and staging when viewing a potential home. While a walkthrough isn’t a replacement for a professional home inspection, it can help you identify questions and potential concerns before deciding whether to move forward.

Here are five areas worth paying attention to during a showing.

1. Home Inspection Checklist: Look for Moisture

Water can cause significant problems in a home, so watch for visible signs of moisture.

Look around ceilings, walls, windows and lower levels for staining, bubbling paint or other signs of previous water intrusion. In addition, pay attention to unusual musty smells.

A past water issue doesn’t necessarily mean you should walk away. However, it’s worth asking questions and having any concerns properly investigated.

2. Look at the Roof and Exterior

You don’t need to climb onto the roof to get a general impression of its condition.

Instead, look from the ground for visibly damaged or missing roofing materials, sagging areas or deteriorated exterior components. Also, take a look at gutters, downspouts, siding and drainage around the property.

If something looks concerning, a qualified professional can investigate further.

3. Check Windows and Doors

Open and close some windows and doors during your showing where appropriate.

Do they operate normally? Do you notice condensation, damaged seals, drafts or visible deterioration?

Meanwhile, exterior doors should close properly and appear reasonably well maintained. These observations won’t tell you everything about the home, but they may give you useful questions to ask.

4. Pay Attention to Plumbing and Electrical

Look under sinks for visible leaks or water damage and take note of water pressure when viewing the property.

You can also look at the general condition of visible electrical components. However, don’t remove electrical panels, open equipment or attempt to diagnose electrical or plumbing problems yourself.

Instead, make a note of anything that concerns you so a qualified inspector or appropriate specialist can evaluate it.

5. Look Beyond the Finishes

A beautifully renovated kitchen can make a strong first impression, but don’t let cosmetic updates distract you from the rest of the property.

Look at the overall condition of floors, ceilings, walls, stairs, exterior areas and other accessible spaces.

In addition, consider the age and apparent condition of major systems such as heating equipment and hot water systems. Your real estate agent can also help you determine what documentation or additional information may be available.

A Home Inspection Checklist Is Only the Beginning

Using a home inspection checklist during a showing can help you become a more observant buyer. However, it shouldn’t replace an inspection by a qualified professional.

In British Columbia, home inspectors must be licensed by Consumer Protection BC. A professional inspection can help identify potential deficiencies and areas where additional expert advice may be appropriate.

Most importantly, ask questions. Understanding the property’s condition can help you make a more informed decision before completing your purchase. If you’re considering buying a home in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam or elsewhere in Metro Vancouver, the Adam Lloyd Home Selling Team can help guide you through the buying process.

Contact The Adam Lloyd Home Selling Team, we can help you understand what’s currently available, where the best value is and how to compete in this price range. Reach out anytime for a no-pressure conversation.

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