Shorelands' Home Inspection Checklist

A Shorelands Home Inspections, LLC home inspection is performed and exceeds both the "Standards of Practice" and Code of Ethics of the State of Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection and The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). This ensures the most thorough inspection possible.

This is what we cover in every home inspection.    

A. Exterior Home Inspection Checklist

Siding and Trim
Windows and Doors
Gutters, Downspouts
Decks, Patios
Fences, Gates
Chimneys, Chimney Flashing
Grading
Driveways, Walkways
Retaining walls  
Landscaping, Drainage

Problems/Solutions: Sealing all penetration areas, seams and voids in the siding, windows, and doors will help to establish and maintain a watertight envelope for the house and will protect the siding and sub structure from exposure to moisture and deterioration  as well as keeping birds and animals out of your home. Shorelands will identify any problems, explain how serious (or not) the problems are, and provide ballpark estimates on what it might cost to correct any significant problems.  We will also recommend experienced local professionals to perform the work at reasonable and competitive prices.
 
B.  Structure, House Inspection Checklist
 
Foundation
Crawl spaces
Floors, Walls
Attic
Garage
Home Ventilation

Problems/Solutions: Was the  house constructed with good quality materials and installed in a workman like manner? Is there cracking and excessive settlement?  Water problems in the basement?  What is acceptable, what is not?  Plus an estimate of the cost to repair.

C.  Roof Inspection
 
Covering Material, Condition

Flashing (keeps out moisture and water)
Vents and Stacks (the "pipes" which stick up on all roofs)
Skylights

Problems/Solutions: How old is the roof? Most asphalt roofs have a life span of 15-20 years. How long will your's last? We'll tell you.  How many layers of roofing materal are there? Does it matter -YES!  It can significantly increase the cost of roof replacement.
   
D. Electrical Home Inspection Checklist

Service entrance
Panel and Sub Panel(s)
Electrical Grounding
Service Size and Capacity
Safety and Proper Wiring
Outlets, Switches, and GFCI's (special outlets required for kitchens and baths in modern construction)

Problems/Solutions: Most houses today may require a 200 AMPERAGE service for all the appliances, air conditioning, computers, electric stoves, etc. Also nearly all houses have some type of elecrtical deficiency, i.e. bad outlet (no "juice").

Shorelands will accurately assess the condition and safety of the current electrical system. Some problems (faulty switch or outlet) are easily fixed.  Other problems may be more extensive.  In any case, you'll know about the problems, if they are severe or not, and you will be provided with reasonable estimates of cost and referrals to local professionals to do the work. 

E. Heating and Air Conditioning Checklist

Description
Components
Venting
Controls and Thermostats
Current Condition
Normal Functions and Maintenance

Problems/Solutions: Bottom line is how long will the boiler or furnace last before you need a replacement or major repair?  Is the heating system efficient with today's high energy costs?  What will it cost to improve the system, and when?

Plus, Shorelands will also "walk you through" the controls, and give you tips on maintenance and use.
    
F.  Plumbing Inspection Checklist:

Main supply
Fixtures, type, and condition
Flow, pressure, and temperature
Vents/drains/traps, and leak evidence

Problems/Solutions: Has the house been recently renovated?  Older houses have pipes that have a life span that you need to know about. All pipes and plumbing are not created equal...

G. Interior Home Inspection 

Walls
Ceilings
Interior Doors
Fireplaces
Floors
Appliances
Bathrooms
Smoke Detectors

Problems/Solutions:  Any house probably needs some paint in a room or two, or cosmetic work.  At Shorlelands Home Inspections, LLC, I concentrate mainly on structural and safety issues, plus properly working appliances, etc.  How long can you expect the stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher to last?   What should be repaired?  What will it cost, approximately? 

H.  Insulation Inspection 

Attic
Basement
Crawl Space
Walls
Duct Work
Plumbing Lines

Problems/Solutions:  Most homes, particularly older homes, do not have adequate insulation.  So, the first thing we look for:  IS THERE ANY INSULATION AND IS IT ENOUGH?

DO OTHER SERVICES NEED TO BE PERFORMED?

A "Termite" Inspection (which includes all Wood Destroying Insects) and Radon Test are usually included in our standard home inspection services.
  • Water Testing
  • Mold Testing with current technology