Use this guide as a list of things that you should check for when buying a new home. Your home inspector may also review many of these items, but you should also do a check yourself.

 

Check For Properly Working Appliances/Fixtures:

Bathroom

  • Sinks
  • Showers/tubs
  • Toilets
  • Vent fan
  • Heating fan

Kitchen

  • Kitchen cabinet doors
  • Drawers
  • Sinks

Appliances

  • Dishwasher
  • Stove
  • Oven
  • Ice maker
  • Garbage disposal
  • Range hood
  • Refrigerator
  • Freezer
  • Microwave
  • Trash compactor

General

  • Lights (interior & exterior)
  • Windows
  • Heating system
  • Ceiling fans
  • Hot water system
  • Air conditioning system
  • Electrical outlets
  • Doorbells
  • Doors
  • Water purifier
  • Fireplace damper
  • Garage door

Ensure House Is Well-Built & Systems Are In Working Condition:

Exterior

  • Brick bulging or cracking
  • Shingles missing or broken
  • Siding rotted or missing
  • Gutters damaged or need to be cleaned
  • Concrete cracked in sidewalks/driveway

Basement

  • Water seepage in the basement
  • Cracks in foundation
  • Poor ventilation

Interior

  • Sub-flooring damaged or loose
  • Cracked walls or ceiling
  • Cracked tiles
  • Loose plaster
  • Flooring damaged
  • Soft, springy floors
  • Water stains near windows
  • Water stains on the ceiling below the bathroom
  • Water stains in attic
  • Pipe insulation missing