A home inspection is an objective visual assessment of a property’s condition, uncovering potential issues and necessary repairs. Its purpose is to inform, not to provide a “pass” or “fail” grade to the property. Knowing the details of what is checked in a home inspection will help you understand your investment before closing.
What Will a Home Inspector Look for During an Assessment?
Here’s a look at what is included in a home inspection.
1. Foundation, Basement and Structural Components
This is the literal bedrock of the home, and the inspector will look for signs of stress or damage. Hairline cracks are often normal, but large, horizontal or stair-cracking cracks in brick or concrete can indicate serious structural movement. Sagging floor joists, bowed foundation walls and damaged support posts fall in the latter category. Active water seepage is also a red flag, especially in basements and crawl spaces.
2. Exterior and Roofing
To assess the roof, inspectors will look for things like missing shingles and damaged flashing around chimneys. For the exterior walls, inspectors will note signs of damage and decay. They’ll check for rotting wood on frames, broken seals on double-pane windows and faulty locks or hinges on doors and windows. The gutters are also up for inspection, whether they’re securely attached, properly sloped and free of debris.
3. Plumbing System
The inspection covers the home’s entire water supply and drainage system. Property examiners will check all faucets, showers and water heaters for proper function. They’ll also identify the material, condition of visible pipes and leaking issues. Poor water pressure is another consideration, as it can point to clogged pipe systems and other significant plumbing issues.
4. Electrical System
Inspectors will check the main service panel for safety hazards, such as signs of overheating, faulty grounding and outdated brands known to be fire risks. They’ll test the outlets, switches and fixtures for power and proper polarity. The home must also have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in required locations. Each one must be functional and not yet expired.
5. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Ensuring the heating and cooling systems are functional has its own section in the home inspection checklist. Inspectors will operate both to ensure they’re working properly. They’ll also take note of the age, physical condition and service history of the furnace and air conditioner. Distribution is another key factor, and checking it involves assessing adequate airflow in various rooms and inspecting any visible ductwork for damage or disconnections.
6. Interior Rooms, Doors and Windows
This check is less about the paint color and more about the space’s functionality. Inspectors will confirm whether interior doors open, close and latch properly. They’ll look for signs of structural damage on the walls and ceilings, and assess all the steps, handrails and guardrails of stairways for safety and stability.
7. Attic Insulation and Ventilation
This inspection covers the passive, structural components that regulate temperature and prevent moisture in the home. Certified professionals will evaluate the ventilation and insulation of attics, crawl spaces and unfinished spaces. They’ll also check whether the exhaust fans from bathrooms and kitchens are vented adequately to the home’s exterior instead of the attic.
What Fixes Are Mandatory After a Home Inspection?
No fixes are legally mandatory in most transactions, but there are some exceptions. For example, a lender could require repairs related to safety or structural integrity before approving a mortgage.
The inspection is a negotiation tool that belongs solely to you, and you decide how to use it. You can ask the seller to make repairs or request a financial credit before closing the deal to cover the cost of repairs. Declining is also another option when the issues are too significant.
Home Inspection Pricing and Protecting Your Investment
The average cost of home inspection is about $400 in 2025, with the price varying based on the property’s size and age plus additional services. This fee is a small but crucial part of a much larger financial transaction, as it protects your primary investment. If down payments range from 3% to 20% of the property’s total cost, paying a few hundred dollars to protect that asset is a wise decision.
For example, an inspection could reveal that the home’s furnace is on its last legs, and a replacement could cost $5,000 or more. By uncovering this before you buy, the $400 you spent on the evaluation gives you the power to negotiate repairs with the seller. Otherwise, that $5,000 expense would have been an unexpected and unwelcome surprise after you moved in.
Working With a Real Estate Broker
After receiving the inspection report, you can seal the deal or say no to the offer depending on the results. You can also negotiate with the seller. A good way to ensure you cover all your bases is by working with a real estate broker.
While you can buy a new home without a broker, the process is complex. Having the help of an expert can help ensure you’re making the best decision in the long run. This is especially important during the negotiation phase following an inspection.
Experienced brokers can help you decipher the report’s technical jargon and provide crucial perspectives. They can distinguish between common, minor issues and significant red flags. They can also create a shortlist of reasonable requests to send to the seller if needed and develop a negotiation strategy.
Get More Out of Your Home Inspection Report
Think of the inspection not as a hurdle but as an essential tool for making a smart home purchase in Colorado. With a detailed report from Axium, you can proceed with the purchase confidently and negotiate effectively. Get started by scheduling an inspection today.
