This checklist covers both the exterior walk-around and the important interior areas to check afterward. It is especially useful for homebuyers and homeowners in the United States.
1. What to bring during a house inspection
Before starting, prepare a few basic tools:
Clipboard or notebook and pen
Smartphone or camera for photographs
Flashlight
Measuring tape
Binoculars for viewing the roof from the ground
Comfortable shoes
Phone charger or power bank
A copy of the property listing, if purchasing
Avoid climbing onto the roof, entering unsafe crawl spaces, or opening electrical equipment.
2. Exterior walk-around house inspection checklist
Walk around the entire property at least twice. First, concentrate on the foundation, grading, and exterior walls. On the second walk, examine the roof, gutters, windows, and doors more closely.
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Check for:
Missing, cracked, curled, or loose shingles.
Sagging areas along the roofline.
Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
Gutters pulling away from the house.
Rust, holes, or debris in gutters.
Downspouts that discharge water too close to the foundation.
Water stains or decay on soffits and fascia.
Do not climb onto the roof yourself. A professional can examine areas that cannot be safely viewed from the ground.
C. Exterior walls and siding
Walk along each side of the house and look carefully at the exterior surfaces.
Check wood siding for rot, swelling, and insect damage.
Look for loose vinyl or aluminum siding.
Examine brickwork for damaged bricks and deteriorating mortar.
Check stucco for significant cracks.
Look for peeling paint and water stains.
Inspect the trim around windows and doors.
Look for openings where rainwater or pests could enter.
D. Windows and exterior doors
Windows and doors help keep moisture, drafts, and pests outside.
Open and close accessible windows.
Check that locks and handles work.
Look for cracked glass and damaged screens.
Examine window frames for rot or deterioration.
Look for condensation trapped between double-pane glass.
Check exterior door hinges, locks, and weatherstripping.
Look for gaps around frames and damaged caulking.
E. Yard, drainage, and landscaping
Poor drainage can contribute to moisture problems and foundation damage.
Check whether the ground slopes away from the house.
Look for puddles near the foundation.
Examine downspout discharge locations.
Look for soil erosion and exposed foundation areas.
Check trees and large roots close to the property.
Look for branches touching the roof.
Inspect retaining walls for leaning or movement.
F. Driveway, porch, deck, and outdoor structures
Check the areas people use to enter and move around the property.
Inspect driveway cracks and uneven pavement.
Check sidewalks for trip hazards.
Examine porch posts, steps, and railings.
Look for rotting or loose deck boards.
Check balcony railings and visible supports.
Inspect detached garages, sheds, and fences.
Look for signs of termites or other wood-destroying insects.
3. Interior house inspection checklist
An exterior walk-around is only the first part of a home inspection. Once you finish outside, examine the inside of the house as well.
| Area | What to inspect |
|---|---|
| Living room | Wall cracks, ceiling stains, floor damage, windows |
| Kitchen | Faucets, drains, cabinets, appliances, outlets |
| Bathrooms | Toilets, showers, water pressure, ventilation |
| Bedrooms | Windows, doors, flooring, closets |
| Basement | Moisture, cracks, drainage, visible structural concerns |
| Attic | Roof leaks, ventilation, insulation, visible framing |
| Laundry room | Washing machine connections, drains, dryer vent |
| Garage | Door operation, visible damage, floor cracks |
4. Important warning signs you should not ignore
Some problems deserve more attention than ordinary cosmetic repairs.
Major foundation cracks or movement
Large or widening cracks, bowing walls, or visible structural movement should be evaluated by a qualified structural professional.
Persistent dampness, mold-like growth, musty odors, and recurring water stains may indicate an underlying moisture problem.
Roof damage or sagging
Missing roofing materials, visible sagging, and signs of active leaks need professional evaluation.
Exposed wiring, burning smells, sparks, or hot electrical equipment require prompt attention from a qualified electrician.
5. How to record problems during the inspection
Do not rely on memory. Write down every issue and take photographs where it is safe to do so.
A simple inspection record can include:
| Inspection item | Condition | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Good / Needs attention | |
| Roof | Good / Needs attention | |
| Gutters | Good / Needs attention | |
| Exterior walls | Good / Needs attention | |
| Windows and doors | Good / Needs attention | |
| Drainage | Good / Needs attention | |
| Driveway | Good / Needs attention | |
| Deck and porch | Good / Needs attention |
For a property purchase, ask the seller or agent about the roof’s age, previous water damage, major repairs, permits, and available maintenance records.
6. Should you hire a professional home inspector?
Yes, particularly when you are purchasing a property. A personal walk-around can help you identify visible concerns, but it cannot replace a professional inspection.
A qualified home inspector can examine accessible structural components and major systems, including roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, and the attic or basement when accessible. The exact inspection scope varies, and some specialized issues require separate professionals.
7. Frequently asked questions
How long does a walk-around house inspection take?
A basic exterior walk-around may take 20–45 minutes, depending on the property’s size and condition. A complete professional inspection usually takes longer.
What should I inspect first when walking around a house?
Start with the foundation and drainage. Then examine exterior walls, roofing, gutters, windows, doors, and outdoor structures.
Can I inspect a house without a professional?
You can perform a preliminary visual inspection yourself. However, you should hire a qualified professional before relying on the condition of a property for a major purchase.
What are the biggest red flags when buying a house?
Major foundation movement, recurring water intrusion, roof damage, unsafe electrical conditions, and significant structural deterioration are important warning signs.
Should I inspect a house after it rains?
If possible, yes. Rain can make drainage problems, standing water, leaking gutters, and moisture intrusion easier to notice.
Conclusion
A walk-around house inspection checklist helps you examine a property’s exterior systematically instead of overlooking important details. Start with the foundation and drainage, move on to the roof and exterior walls, and finish with windows, doors, landscaping, and outdoor structures. Record every concern and arrange a professional inspection when buying a home or when you discover signs of significant damage.