Components to a Home Inspection: Exterior

What is the exterior component of a home inspection?

During the home inspection, a peace of mind certified inspector will identify major deficiencies in the condition of the exterior. To identify major deficiencies in the condition of exterior components of the property, including attached structures. Inspects: Wall claddings, trim, doors and windows, attached structures, drives, walkways, patios, grading and vegetation, the garage, and retaining walls.

The certified inspector shall inspect:

A. The siding, flashing and trim.

B. All exterior doors, decks, stoops, steps, stairs, porches, railings, eaves, soffits and fascias.

C. Report as in need of repair any spacings between intermediate balusters, spindles, or rails for steps, stairways, balconies, and railings that permit the passage of an object greater than four inches in diameter.

D. A representative number of windows.

E. The vegetation, surface drainage and retaining walls when these are likely to adversely affect the structure.

F. Describe the exterior wall covering.

The certified nspector is not required to:

A. Inspect or operate screens, storm windows, shutters, awnings, fences, outbuildings, or exterior accent lighting.

B. Inspect items, including window and door flashings, which are not visible or readily accessible from the ground.

C. Inspect geological, geotechnical, hydrological and/or soil conditions.

D. Inspect recreational facilities.

E. Inspect seawalls, break-walls and docks.

F. Inspect erosion control and earth stabilization measures.

G. Inspect for safety type glass.

H. Inspect underground utilities.

I.   Inspect underground items.

J. Inspect wells or springs.

K. Inspect solar systems.

L. Inspect swimming pools or spas (without prior request to do so).

M. Inspect septic systems or cesspools.

N. Inspect playground equipment.

O. Inspect sprinkler systems.

P. Inspect drain fields or drywells.

Q. Determine the integrity of the thermal window seals or damaged glass.