Scope of Work: Basic Home Inspection

Purpose

The purpose of a home inspection is to identify and report visible, material defects or safety issues in the major systems of a residential property. It is a non-invasive, visual examination conducted to provide clients with a better understanding of the home’s current condition.

Standards of Practice

The Home Inspector follows the minimum InterNACHI Residential Standards of Practice or the State of North Carolina Standards of Practice, with additional emphasis on clear communication and buyer education.

Scope of the Inspection

The home inspection and report provide a visual assessment of the readily accessible systems and components of the home, including:

1. Exterior

• Wall cladding, siding, flashing, trim

• Doors and windows

• Driveways, walkways, decks, porches, balconies

• Gutters, downspouts, grading around the home

• Roof coverings (via roof access, drone, or ground observation)

2. Roof System

• Roofing materials (shingles, membrane, etc.)

• Flashing, chimneys, vents, skylights

• Roof drainage (gutters and downspouts)

• Signs of roof leaks or deterioration

3. Structure and Foundation

• Visible portions of the foundation (cracks, movement)

• Floor structure, wall framing, ceiling joists

• Basement or crawlspace conditions

• Attic structure and ventilation

4. Interior

• Ceilings, walls, floors

• Doors and windows (operation and condition)

• Stairways, railings, and guardrails

• Visible signs of moisture intrusion or damage

5. Plumbing System

• Main water shutoff, supply lines, and drain pipes (visible)

• Water heater(s) – type, age, installation

• Fixtures in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas

• Visible leaks, corrosion, or improper installations

6. Electrical System

• Main service panel and subpanels

• Service drop or service entry

• Visible wiring, outlets, GFCI/AFCI protection

• Lighting fixtures, smoke detectors

7. HVAC System

• Heating system (furnace, boiler, heat pump)

• Cooling system (AC, heat pump)

• Thermostat operation

• Visible ductwork and airflow observations

8. Attic and Insulation

• Insulation type and distribution

• Ventilation (soffit, ridge, gable)

• Signs of past leaks or pest intrusion

9. Fireplaces and Fuel-Burning Appliances

• Firebox, damper, hearth

• Chimney and vent connections (visible portions)

• Carbon monoxide safety considerations

Limitations

This inspection is limited to visible and readily accessible areas. It does not include:

• Invasive or destructive testing

• Engineering or structural analysis

• Code compliance verification

• Specialized systems such as alarm, solar, or irrigation

• Environmental testing (mold, radon, lead, asbestos, etc.—unless separately contracted)

Deliverables

• A written inspection report with digital photos

• Summary of material defects and safety concerns

• Maintenance recommendations

• Optional: Home Inspection Cost estimate ranges or follow-up services (e.g., mold, radon, sewer scope) available upon request (See Repair Pricer)

Home Inspection Report

A home inspection report is a detailed, easy-to-understand document that outlines the condition of a property’s major systems and components at the time of the inspection. It includes observations, photos, and notes on any visible defects, safety concerns, or areas needing maintenance—covering everything from the roof and foundation to plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more. At Advantage Inspection, our reports are designed to empower homebuyers with clear, objective information to make confident decisions and negotiate effectively.

Home Inspection Cost

Home inspection costs can vary based on the size, age, and complexity of the property, but most standard inspections range from $400 to $600. Additional services—such as radon testing, sewer scope, or termite inspections—may increase the total cost but provide valuable insight into hidden issues. At Advantage Inspection, we offer transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees, and we provide bundled service options to maximize value and convenience for our clients.

FAQ