According to the InterNACHI Standards of Practice (SOP), a home inspection covers the following areas:
Roof:
Materials, drainage systems, flashings, skylights, chimneys, and other roof penetrations.
Exterior:
Wall claddings, flashing and trim, exterior doors, windows, decks, balconies, stoops, steps, porches, railings, eaves, soffits, and fascias.
Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace & Structure:
The foundation, basement or crawlspace areas for signs of moisture, structural damage, and the general structural integrity.
Heating:
Heating equipment, distribution systems, energy source and shut-off valves, flues and chimneys, and the condition of the heat source.
Cooling:
Central and through-wall cooling equipment, cooling distribution systems, and the condition of the cooling units.
Plumbing:
Main water and fuel supply shut-off valves, water heating equipment, fixtures, faucets, drainage, waste, and vent systems.
Electrical:
Service drop, service entrance conductors, cables, grounding, main disconnect, service panel, branch circuit conductors, fixtures, switches, outlets, and safety devices like GFCI and AFCI.
Fireplace:
Fireplaces, flues, chimneys, and vent systems to check for safety and proper function.
Attic, Insulation & Ventilation:
Insulation in unfinished spaces, ventilation of attic spaces, mechanical ventilation systems, and the condition of the attic structure.
Doors, Windows & Interior:
Doors, windows, walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, railings, cabinets, and counters for functionality, damage, or defects.
InterNACHI’s SOP also specifies what is not part of a standard home inspection, which includes but is not limited to, environmental testing (like radon or mold), pest inspections, well or septic systems unless specifically agreed upon, and concealed or inaccessible areas. Inspectors are also not required to determine the remaining life expectancy of systems or components or offer warranties or guarantees.
Remember, this is a general overview, and individual inspectors might exceed these standards or offer additional services by agreement.
InCalifornia cities, a significant number of home inspection companies align with the standards set by InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) through its Standards of Practice (SOP). This commonality creates a uniform baseline for home inspections statewide, ensuring that clients receive consistent, high-quality assessments of residential properties. InterNACHI’s SOP provides a detailed framework which many California home inspectors follow, covering essential areas like roofing, electrical systems, plumbing, and structural integrity. By adhering to these standards, these companies not only uphold a level of professionalism but also provide peace of mind to home buyers and sellers, knowing that their inspection will meet industry benchmarks for thoroughness and accuracy. This shared standard helps in maintaining the integrity of the home inspection process across various regions in California, and various cities, despite the lack of state-specific licensing for home inspectors. Areas inspected on a typical home inspection.