Sheila,

Inspectors look for anything that is going to impact the value and safety associated with a home. They follow a check list the covers:

electrical
plumbing
appliances
interior
exterior
roof
cellar
HVAC

Generally they focus on the condition and utility of the various components of a home.

Wow! Good answers below! I can certainly add to it but these will do.

I will add one thing. Some Inspectors I know mostly look for the payment check at the end (Chuckle). Watch that type closely!

Emmanuel J. Scanlan
PS Inspection & Property Services LLC http://www.psinspection.com
214-418-4366 (cell)
TREC License # 7593
International Code Council, Residential Combination Inspector #5247015-R5 (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing and Building)
Certified Infrared Thermographer (ASNT-TC1A Standards)
Texas Residential Construction Commission, Third Party Warranty Inspector #1593
Texas Residential Construction Commission, Inspector, County Inspection Program
Texas Department Of Insurance, VIP Inspector # 08507061016
Hayman Residential Engineering Services, Field Technician
CMC Energy - Certified Energy Auditor

Knowledge is power, but sharing knowledge brings peace!!

Sheila,
A qualified home inspector is looking for items that are in need of repair or will soon need attention. The focus of their inspection is health/safety, mechanical and structural. Roofing, windows, appliances, plumbing, electrical, etc. The inspection is a visual & physical examination of the property in order to identify any material defects. Nothing cosmetic will, or should be, identified. As a buyer, this inspection is a tool of your dilligence regarding the property. Use it for what it is worth. It is a fact finding mission. You should attend the inspection and walk through with the inspector as they check each item. You will learn a lot about the home, as well as any maintenance you should be aware of. It's money very well spent. Good luck!

Chris Mabry, SRS,e-PRO
Realty executives Southern Arizona
Chris@MabryHomes.net

A standard home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and major interior systems of a residential building consisting of one to four dwelling units. An inspection can be likened to a physical exam by a physician; however, it should be clearly understood that a home inspection is not to be confused with an appraisal, a building code inspection, a guarantee of any kind, and/or an insurance policy on the condition of the property.

During an inspection, the inspector will review the readily accessible exposed portions of the structure of the home, including the roof, the attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, basement, and foundation as well as the heating/air conditioning systems, interior plumbing and electrical systems for potential problems.

Home inspections are not intended to point out every small problem or any invisible or latent defect in a home. Most minor or cosmetic flaws, for example, should be apparent to the buyer without the aid of a professional