Investing in a home may be the most important financial decision you will ever make. You need to know everything you can about the property before you close. Choosing the right neighborhood, size and building design, are some important features. But this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Is the area around the foundation sloped in the right direction to avoid a leaking basement?

Are there large trees dumping leaves in the gutters?

If so, does it have a good gutter guard installed?

Are the gutters sloped toward the down spouts?

What condition are the siding and screens in?

What shape is the roof in?

Is the sewer lateral in good shape?

Are there signs of termite tunnels present?

Do the safety features on the garage door opener work correctly?

Is the firewall in the garage proper?

Is there a solid door between the garage and the house? (Fire safety)

Do things like the burglar alarm and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work?

What kind of wiring does it have?

What condition are the major appliances in?

What condition is the plumbing in?

Are the bathroom fixtures in good condition?

Are the toilets fixed to the floors, and do they flush properly?

How old are the appliances?

Do all of the light fixtures work?

How about the switches, outlets, windows and doors?

Does the home inspection company offer some kind of warranty on the house after he inspects it?

These are actually just some of the items in a good house inspection. If your inspector isn’t taking 3 to 4 hours to thoroughly inspect your new home, he isn’t giving you a good inspection. A good home inspection report will list the areas of concern; as well as tell you the age of the roof and major appliances, and any additions since the house was built.

Michael Morrissey

Owner/Inspector

Inspect-It 1^st Property Inspection

314-583-7654 (Office)