The single-family home inspection is a visual and non-invasive property inspection in accordance with the governing state’s Standards of Practice. For discerning clients, there is an option to add-on a Preservation Assessment and Follow-on Consultation.

  • Single-Family Home Inspection

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What is included in a Single-Family Home Inspection?

Every home inspection includes a detailed written report on the inspection findings. Observations are categorized as Maintenance items, Repair or Replace items, or Safety Hazards.

Home Inspections include the following major systems or components, unless otherwise agreed upon prior to the inspection.

  • The inspector evaluates roofing materials, flashing, drainage components (gutters and downspouts), visible roof structure, and penetrations (e.g., chimneys, skylights).

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Slate, clay tile, or wood shingle roofing

    • Original copper or tin flashing

    • Built-in or wood-lined box gutters

  • The inspection includes siding, trim, windows, doors, porches, decks, steps, eaves, and grading around the foundation.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Clapboard, shiplap, or wood shingle siding

    • Original wood windows and decorative trim

    • Lime-based mortars and historic masonry (brick, stone, stucco)

    • Settling or foundation cracks in stone rubble foundations

  • The visible foundation, framing, floor structure, attic framing, and load-bearing elements are inspected for performance, damage, and water intrusion.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Hand-hewn or balloon framing

    • Brick piers or stone rubble foundations

    • Signs of prior repairs or shoring

    • Evidence of termite or rot damage in older lumber

  • Inspection includes the main service panel, branch wiring, visible outlets and switches, grounding, and overall safety.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Knob-and-tube or cloth-insulated wiring

    • Outdated fuse boxes or ungrounded systems

    • Inadequate amperage for modern loads

    • Lack of GFCI/AFCI protection in wet or high-use areas

    Note for Rhode Island Clients: In accordance with Rhode Island law, licensed home inspectors are not permitted to remove the dead front cover of the electrical panel during an inspection. We offer a comprehensive Electrical Inspection with a Licensed Electrician for an additional fee.

  • The visible plumbing supply and waste lines, fixtures, water heater, and venting are inspected for leaks, function, and deterioration.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Lead supply lines or cast iron drain pipes

    • Historic cisterns or private wells

    • Presence or signs of abandoned underground oil storage tanks

  • The inspector reviews heating systems (furnaces, boilers, fireplaces) and central or ductless air conditioning where present, including visible ductwork and thermostats.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Older steam or hot water radiator systems

    • Potential asbestos insulation at heating distribution systems

  • Walls, ceilings, floors, stairways, railings, and permanently installed fixtures are reviewed for structural integrity, damage, or deterioration.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Original plaster walls and ceilings

    • Wide plank or tongue-and-groove hardwood flooring

    • Decorative millwork, wainscoting, or pressed metal ceilings

    • Settling or slope in flooring due to age or structural movement

  • The inspector observes accessible insulation in attics and crawlspaces, and assesses ventilation for attics, roof structures, and exhaust systems.

    Historic Home Considerations:

    • Historic insulation materials or presence of original materials (e.g., balsam wool, vermiculite)

    • Poor attic or crawlspace ventilation contributing to moisture issues

  • While not required by the standards of practice, the inspection includes the following appliances when present:

    • Range or oven (gas or electric)

    • Built-in microwave

    • Dishwasher

    • Garbage disposal

    Functionality, visible condition, and installation are noted, though these appliances are not tested to manufacturer specifications.

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