Home Inspection Checklist

Home Inspection Checklist Fort Worth, TX

No house is perfect—not even a brand-new one. That’s why it’s important to look beyond surface appeal and keep an eye out for potential big-ticket issues when previewing properties with your real estate agent. Doing so helps ensure your investment is truly worth it.

A home inspection checklist is a valuable tool for buyers during the house-hunting process. It allows you to observe and document important features of each property, from visible structural conditions to safety concerns, so you can make informed comparisons later.

THE BIG PICTURE

Take the time to check out the neighboring houses that were constructed around the same time as yours. This will give you a general idea of the condition of your house and pay attention to the severity of major issues as some of these can be deal-breakers.

What a Home Inspection Checklist Is (and Isn’t)

It’s important to understand the purpose of a home inspection checklist:

✅ It helps you stay organized by recording your observations while touring homes.
✅ It gives you a way to compare properties side by side before making an offer.
✅ It highlights potential concerns you may want your inspector to examine further.

However, a checklist should never be mistaken for a professional inspection report. It does not replace the expertise of a licensed home inspector. Instead, it’s a simple guide to help you take notes and identify areas worth a closer look.

ROOF

A simple visual evaluation of the roof may suffice.

Check for any damage present, such as broken tiles or missing shingles.
Are there any obvious patches?
Check the chimney and flashing. Are there any missing and damaged bricks, and cracked joints?
Check the attic. Is there adequate ventilation and insulation?
Check the gutters and downspouts? Are they attached securely to the structure? Are there any signs of bending or sagging?
Check for any wood rots as well as other roof penetrations too.

FLOORS

Check the type of flooring material.
Are there any stains or signs of damages?
Will any need restoration or replacement?
For wooden floors, you can test exposed areas by gently prodding with a flat screwdriver. Soft areas can be tell-tale signs of wet or dry rot.

WALLS

Check that interior and exterior walls are level. Are they bowed, sagged, bulging, or leaning?
Are there any cracks? Note that these may be caused by several factors, from shoddy construction to inevitable movement over time.
Are there any flaking or mismatched paint?
What is the condition of the wall coverings?
For brick walls, check for any breaks or spaces.
Note what insulation type is installed in the walls. Is there adequate insulation behind the walls?

CEILINGS

Are the ceilings straight and intact?
Are there any stains or signs of previous water damage from leaks?
Will any of the ceilings need repainting?
What type of insulation is installed in the ceilings?
Note any significant cracks.

WINDOWS and DOORS

How is the condition of the windows and doors? Do they operate and latch well?
Do the window and door frames appear square?
Are the frame joints caulked or insulated?
Are there any cracks, rot, or decay?
If any locks are present, do they work?
Do the windows and doors have weather-stripping? What kind? Are they in good condition?

BATHROOM and KITCHEN

Are all plumbing fixtures and faucets secure?
Are there cracks on the fixtures?
Is there adequate water flow and pressure at all fixtures?
Do the sinks, tubs, and showers drain properly?
Note the condition of the tubs and shower tiles.
Note any leak, rust, unusual noises, or other signs of neglect.

ELECTRICAL

When testing electrical elements, make sure that all necessary safety measures are taken.

- Is there any open wiring?
- Are the fuses or breakers overheating?
- Ensure that cables are secure and safe.
- Check all electrical receptacles and switches for functionality.
- When was the last time the heating and cooling (HVAC) system was inspected?
- Were there any upgrades lately?
- No home is complete without appliances. Check all appliances if they are all working properly.

HVAC SYSTEM

Inspect and determine if the system has been serviced lately. Look for upkeep by the owner, is their dust, dirt around the system, are air vents dusty/dirty.

WATER HEATER

The water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home and often, taken for granted. When looking at the water heater, is there evidence of rust, any leaking at the top or the bottom of the water heater? Cracks? Does it make noises? Do you notice smelly water or discolored water?

For many good reasons, a home inspection checklist can be a valuable tool to help make previewing many properties more organized so you know what features and issues went with which home. This information may later help to decide which home to choose to make an offer on, which will likely prevent a lot of stress.

Why You Still Need A Professional Home Inspection

While your checklist is helpful, only a certified home inspector can:

Conduct a thorough, unbiased evaluation of the property.
Identify hidden issues not visible during a casual walkthrough.
Provide a detailed inspection report that supports negotiations and protects your investment.

A home inspection checklist is a smart way to stay organized while previewing homes, but hiring a trusted professional ensures peace of mind before closing. At Texas Pro Home Inspection, we provide detailed reports that help you move forward with confidence.

📞 Call (281) 456-7890 or visit www.texasprohomeinspection.com to schedule your inspection today. Updated: September 2025

At Texas Pro Home Inspection, where we serve Fort Worth and surrounding areas, we understand the importance of your home investment. We are highly trained and experienced and provide detailed and accurate reporting of the property’s condition to ensure your safety and Peace Of Mind. Whether buying or selling, trust us to give you the confidence you need in one of your biggest investments. Don’t wait—call or text us today at 469-879-2772 to schedule your inspection and secure your future.