This home inspection checklist is used to record the condition of a residential property before sale, lease, or general maintenance. It is typically filled out by homeowners, buyers, landlords, or unlicensed home inspectors during walkthroughs. This checklist guides the inspection process through all major areas of the home to identify visible wear, system faults, or safety issues in both interior and exterior spaces.
How to Use This Home Inspection Checklist
In this checklist, each table is organized by section, with one row per inspection item. The first two columns list the item and what to examine. The last three columns—Good, Fair, and Poor—can be used to mark the condition of each area. Here’s a section-by-section breakdown of the template:
Exterior
Start the inspection by walking the perimeter of the property. For each exterior element—foundation, roof, walls, and drainage—observe visible signs of wear, displacement, or moisture. Use this section to identify concerns that might affect the structural soundness of the home or indicate poor water flow, such as sloped soil, pooling near the base, or rotting trim. When marking each row, base your rating on how likely the issue is to worsen if left unaddressed.
Interior
Once inside, go room by room and test functional aspects—look for uneven flooring, bulging or stained ceilings, loose outlets, or stuck windows. This section includes surface-level signs of deeper issues such as leaks, poor insulation, or outdated systems. Mark items “Fair” or “Poor” not just based on appearance but also usability, especially for appliances and fixtures that should respond immediately when used.
Electrical System
This part requires more precision. Without opening panels, confirm that switches respond properly, outlets work, and no scorched areas or loose covers are present. Test GFCIs by pressing the built-in test/reset buttons. Check detectors by using the test function, and ensure all locations that require them have one installed. Use this section to flag missing or non-functional safety measures that could pose future hazards.
Plumbing System
Walk through each bathroom and kitchen, running water through sinks, tubs, and toilets. Feel for temperature changes, watch drainage speed, and check for vibration, leaks, or gurgling noises. This section focuses on detecting inconsistent pressure, outdated pipes, or signs of blockage that could indicate deeper plumbing system strain. Use the notes to flag any fixture that doesn’t operate as expected.
Attic / Basement / Crawlspace
Access these areas only if they are safely reachable. Scan for discolored wood, musty smells, damp insulation, or pest trails. This section is often where mold or hidden decay is first noticed. Instead of trying to inspect every inch, focus on the corners, joints, and around vents. “Good” here means dry, well-ventilated, and stable—anything else should be noted for possible follow-up.
Garage
Test the overhead door using the opener and backup release. Walk around the interior to check walls, outlets, and the condition of the floor. Inspect for carbon monoxide backflow potential if the garage connects directly to the home. This section emphasizes ventilation and daily usability, especially for properties where the garage is used as a workshop or entry point.
Safety and Security
Review the basics: test smoke alarms, check that carbon monoxide detectors are in place, and verify the location and expiry of fire extinguishers. Identify possible obstacles to exit in case of emergency—like stuck windows or blocked hallways. For security systems, simply note whether basic equipment (like door sensors or cameras) exists and appears functional. This section is not meant for advanced security audits but provides a quick readiness snapshot.
Inspector’s Notes and Recommendations
At the end of the form, two text sections are available for the person conducting the inspection. “Key Observations” is used to summarize overall impressions, while “Recommended Repairs or Follow-ups” lists areas that may need future attention, professional evaluation, or immediate repair. These fields can be filled out on-site or after reviewing all inspection entries.
About This Template
This template is available in Word, Google Docs, and PDF formats. It is commonly used as a printable form during property walkthroughs but can also be filled out digitally. The checklist includes widely accepted inspection points found in standard residential evaluations and can be adjusted to fit the specifics of any property.
