Residential Inspections

Inspections Available Mon-Sun — 514-220-0000

We check every window, door, electrical outlet, and system we can access. Below is a summary of what our residential inspection covers.

ROOF

Composition shingles: no curling, no cupping, no loss of granulation particulate, no broken, damaged or missing shingles, no more than two layers of roofing
Wood shingles or shakes: no mold, rot or decay, no cracked/broken/missing shingles, no curling
Flat roofs: no obvious patches, no cracks or splits, minimal blisters/"alligatoring" and wrinkles, no silt deposits (indicates improper drainage), sealed tar at flashings
Flashing around roof penetrations
No evidence of excess roofing cement/tar/caulk
Soffits and fascia: no decay, no stains
Exterior venting for eave areas: vents are clean and not painted over
Gutters: no decay or rust, joints sealed, attached securely to structure, no bending or sagging, no sections of gutter or downspout missing, gutters clean, no mud deposits
Chimneys: straight, properly flashed, no evidence of damaged bricks or cracked joints, mortar/cement cap in good condition

No stains on underside of roofing, especially around roof penetrations
No evidence of decay or damage to structure
Sufficient insulation and properly installed insulation (moisture barrier installed closest to the heated area of the house)
Adequate ventilation, clear path into attic for air entering through soffit vents, adequately sized gable end louvers, all mechanical ventilation operational
No plumbing, exhaust or appliance vents terminating in attic
No open electrical splices

Proper grading drainage away from house
No evidence of standing water
No leaks from septic tank or leech field
Yard, landscaping, trees and walkways in good condition
No branches or bushes touching house or overhanging the roof
Exterior structures (fences, sheds, decks, retaining walls, detached garages) in good condition, no evidence of termite damage or rotted wood
Railings on stairs and decks are adequate and secure
Driveways, sidewalks, patios, entrance landings in good condition, and pitched away from structure
Downspout drainage directed away from structure

Adequate clearance between ground and wood siding materials (6" minimum); no wood-to-earth contact
Siding: no cracking, curling, loose, rot or decay
Masonry veneers: no cracks in joints, no broken, spalling or flaking components
Stucco: no large cracks (discuss all stucco cracks with a professional inspector)
Vinyl or aluminum siding: no dents, damage, no bowing or loose siding
No vines on surface of structure
Exterior paint or stain: no flaking or blisters
No stains on exterior surfaces
Windows, Doors and Wood Trim: wood frames and trim pieces are secure, no cracks, rot or decay
Joints around frames are caulked
No broken glass (window or storm panes) or damaged screens, no broken double-paned, insulated window seals
Storm windows or thermal glass used
Drip caps installed over windows

Ridge and fascia board lines appear straight and level
Sides of house appear straight, not bowed or sagging
Window and door frames appear square (especially bowed windows)
Visible foundation in good condition — appears straight, plumb, with no significant cracks

Floors, walls and ceilings appear straight, plumb and level; no stains on floors, walls or ceilings
Flooring materials in good condition
No significant cracks in walls or ceilings
Windows and exterior doors operate easily and latch properly, no broken glass, no sashes painted shut, no decay; windows and doors have weather-stripping
Interior doors operate easily and latch properly, no damage or decay, no broken hardware
Paint, wall covering, and paneling in good condition
Wood trim installed well and in good condition
Lights and switches operate properly
Adequate number of three-pronged electrical outlets in each room
Electrical outlets test properly (spot check)
Heating/cooling source in each habitable room
Evidence of adequate insulation in walls
Fireplace: no cracking or damaged masonry, no evidence of back-drafting, damper operates properly, flue has been cleaned, flue is lined

Visible wiring: in good condition, no "knob-and-tube" wiring, no exposed splices, cables secured and protected
Service panel: adequate capacity, all cables attached to panel with cable connectors; fuses or breakers are not overheating
No aluminum cable for branch circuits

Ready to book your residential inspection?

Inspections Available Mon-Sun