A WIN home inspection provides a comprehensive analysis of the current condition of a home. An inspection first assesses the structural components of a property, and then reviews the property’s major and ancillary systems. Home inspectors tend to start by looking at a home’s foundation, then move on to other large-scale structural elements – such as its roof, basement and/or crawl space, attic, walls, ceilings, windows and doors, and floors. Then the inspection narrows in on specific systems, such as heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems. The inspection also includes an assessment of how well attached garages, decks, porches and related construction have been built.

Before your WIN inspector assesses the condition of the home to be inspected, the property on which it sits will first be examined for proper land grading, water drainage and utility service connections.

Most issues with moisture in basements and crawlspaces are caused by poor site drainage.

Your WIN inspector will observe the drainage pattern of land adjacent to the structure. For effective drainage, the ground should slope away from all sides of the building. The ground should also slope away from window wells, outside basement stairs and other areas. Downspouts, surface gutters, and drains should direct water four to six feet away from the foundation.

Your WIN inspector will visually examine all of the utility services leading into the home's structure, including the electrical, water and gas services, any service shutoffs, the sewer line cleanout and the location of the fuel storage tank (if applicable).

The types of service, and the entrance location and current condition of each service, will also be reviewed.

A foundation holds a house above ground, prevents it from moving along with the earth it sits in, and protects against cold and moisture.

A foundation's structure varies depending on when a home was built, the climate in which the home was built, and whether or not the home was built with a basement, atop a crawlspace or on a concrete slab. Your WIN inspector will determine what type of foundation the home has (raised or slab) and what material has been used to construct it (brick, concrete, stone, etc.), and observe the current condition of visible, exposed areas of foundation walls, grade slab, bearing walls, posts, piers, beams, joists, trusses, subfloors, chimney foundations, stairs, and other similar structural components.

Older homes may be built with stone, mortar or brick foundations; however, most homes built in the latter half of the twentieth century are constructed on foundations made from a combination of concrete and steel reinforcements, which are built in several different ways.

Poured concrete foundations are typically reinforced with steel and considered favorable. Concrete slab foundations consist of a flat piece of poured concrete; slab foundations are difficult to inspect because much of the foundation is hidden. Cement block foundations (built from "concrete masonry units") often occur in homes with basements.

During a home inspection, your WIN inspector will examine the structure's performance by first looking at the area around it.

The surrounding perimeter of the structure/yard will be evaluated for adequate land grading and water drainage adjacent to the foundation. Should this be lacking, it may create an environment for water to pool along the foundation. The foundation should also have an appropriate clearance from any trees and/or vegetation so as not to adversely affect the structure.

A WIN Inspector will review the basement/crawlspace for adequate ventilation of the area to provide the needed air flow to help dissipate moisture from under the structure.

The basement/crawlspace area will be reviewed by your WIN inspector to determine if insulation is present and the approximate insulation thickness in the area. Insulating the underside of the first floor flooring via the crawlspace or basement will provide increased energy efficiency, especially in colder months.

A WIN inspector will check any visible piping and ductwork within the basement/crawlspace area, as any loose, leaking or poorly insulated piping and ducts will reduce the energy efficiency and performance of the systems.

The foundation will be inspected for any indications of flooding, moisture or water penetration. The inspector will check for the presence of vapor barriers within the area that minimize moisture intrusion from the ground and allow for the evaporation of moisture through the structure.

Most basements and crawlspaces are susceptible to moisture issues and water penetration. The type and degree of moisture-related issues varies, but even if the water doesn't damage your home's structure it may create an environment favored by wood-destroying organisms and insects that will.

Foundation inspections involve both a review of the home's interior, usually focusing on the basement or crawl space, as well as its exterior, where foundation cracks and shifts are often apparent.

The appearance and nature of cracks in a foundation can foreshadow water leaks, structural issues and vulnerability in the event of an earthquake or other natural disaster. Often cracks and unevenness are due to "settling" – the slight sinking or tilting that happens over time to almost all structures.

Some foundation settling or damage may be inevitable, particularly in an older home, but an inspector can help you determine the degree of danger or needed repairs to the home. Depending on the type of foundation your home has, sealants and reinforcements may be able to combat any early signs of trouble for many years to come.

The roof is one of the most important structural elements of a home. A WIN inspector will describe the pitch (or slope) of a roof, the overall condition of the roof, and the risks associated with the type of roof that sits atop the home. The home inspection will also assess other factors (such as nearby trees and vegetation) that could impact the roof, and whether a roof appears leak-prone. Your inspector will visually inspect your home's roof to assess the condition, its drainage, and whether it is properly flashed to prevent leaks. Inspectors will climb on or at least up to the roof when safe. They'll look for damage, wear, moss or discoloration on the roofing materials.

A WIN inspector will identify the type of roofing materials on the home and climb up to – or atop – the roof to assess its condition, drainage, and whether it's flashed properly to prevent leaks. If the roof is worn, losing shingles, or near trees or if gutters look troublesome the inspector will point this out.

There are many different types of roofing, using a variety of different materials. Asphalt or composition shingles are the predominant type of roofing material in the U.S., but there are many other types including wood shingles (shakes), tile, slate, flat or built-up, and metal roofing. Depending on the type of material used, a home's roof can last from 10 to 50 years (sometimes even more). However, environmental conditions like prolonged sun, heat, rain or snow, and the lack of regular maintenance on a roof may decrease its lifespan.

Flashing is the material used where roof parts and materials connect (chimney, windows, adjoining garage structure, etc.). The amount of flashing on a roof varies and is often different forms of metal. An inspector will check to see if the flashing is functioning properly, and will gauge whether it is prone to any leakage.

Your WIN inspector will check for the presence of any eave or soffit vents, ridge vents, roof vents and/or gable vents which help to maintain a continuous airflow along the underside of the roof. Appropriate ventilation helps to prevent moisture from becoming trapped in insulation, structural wood, shingles and roof deck.

Your WIN inspector will determine the type and materials of a home's chimney(s), and check the general visible condition of the chimney and the chimney flashing. This flashing provides a tight joint between the chimney and the roof.

Gutters and downspouts attached to roofs are also important elements of the roof structure. Improperly installed or clogged gutters won't direct water away from the house properly and could distribute water near the home's foundation, increasing the likelihood of basement flooding or foundation-related moisture problems.

Most roof leaks result from improperly installed flashing. An inspector will check, where visible, the condition of the flashing to gauge whether it is prone to leaks, as well as the condition of skylights and other roof penetrations. Leakage can also result from improper caulking, or from degradation of a roof's shingles, most often caused by weather and the effects of time.

Your WIN inspector will spend a considerable amount of time reviewing a home's exterior in order to get a sense of the home's overall structural health.

A home's foundation will be reviewed from the outside, as well as sidewalks, steps, decks, entryways, and windows. In addition, inspectors will review a home's exterior surfaces, which can be made from many materials including brick, vinyl siding, stone, asbestos or wood shingles. Inspectors will examine your home's exterior surfaces for cracks, blistering, chipping or evidence of moisture intrusion.

The yard's condition and landscaping will be examined by your WIN inspector in terms of its ability to foster proper drainage and whether trees and shrubs are far enough from the house. Keeping plant material an adequate distance away from the structure is important for both pest and moisture control.

Your WIN inspector will examine the soil around the perimeter of the structure, to examine whether adequate clearance is between the ground (soil) and the wood elements of a structure – approximately 6" – 12". At times, excess soil from garden beds, retaining walls, etc. is piled against the foundation of a house and makes contact with the structure's exterior wood elements, potentially leading to moisture intrusion and structural damage.

Inspectors will consider a home's siding materials, examining them for cracks, blistering, chipping, whether they have come loose in places and whether they may have created an environment where moisture intrusion is possible.

If the home is made of brick, inspectors will look for worn coloring, loose bricks or missing mortar, or for partially-cracked bricks. Wood siding may be prone to insect damage, moisture intrusion, or dryness from sun exposure. Aluminum and vinyl siding may become loose or fall off in small pieces, or reveal a worn surface. Stucco may show stains, cracks and swelling. Asbestos cement siding found on older homes may show cracking and, because most homes featuring this siding were built long ago, this siding may also loosen from the layers of material beneath it.

Depending on a home's age and building materials, inspectors will look for different symptoms of age and will be able to identify what may need repairs or repainting, caulking or spot work versus larger issues that may affect the home's entire exterior.

Your WIN inspector will examine the condition of a home's fascia boards and trim for different types of wear. Gutters and downspouts will also be checked for any holes, gaps, rust, clogging or other symptoms of leaks.

Your WIN inspector will check a home's doors and windows for proper installation and for any broken or damaged components. Doors and window will also be checked for proper grade as exterior components, and if properly weather sealed.

Adequate exterior lighting around a home's entryways provides extra visibility. Your WIN inspector will verify the condition of these components and whether they are functioning properly.

Not only will inspectors study the foundation from the outside, examining unevenness, cracks, and holes, but they will also check a home's sidewalks, steps and entryways. The condition of any associated patios, decking and porches are also examined, including surface coverings, functional and safety issues. Driveways and sidewalks will also be examined for holes or cracks that indicate wear and tear or tripping hazards.

Your WIN inspector will check for proper installation and operation of garage door openers and safety switches, if applicable. A garage and/or carport's foundation or concrete slab will also be examined for any visible signs of unevenness or cracks. The roof and exterior siding will be checked for type of material used and current condition. The roof, walls and foundation will also be checked for any evidence of moisture penetration or structural damage issues in the area.

Your inspector will spend a considerable amount of time reviewing your home's interior, including an examination of the heating system, air ducts, whether windows open or not for air flow, insulation, electrical components, and floor structure. Your WIN inspector will also review the condition of all walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors of all rooms, as well as any steps, stairways, balconies and fireplaces within the home. Interior electrical outlets and fixtures, plumbing fixtures, and heating and cooling registers will also be checked.

After an inspector has reviewed a home's outside, it's time for an interior examination of how the home's structure appears from the inside. Are ceilings bowed? Are floors springy, or solid? In the basement, are support posts loose or showing signs of substructural damage?

Your WIN inspector will review the home's ventilation and insulation where visible. The type of insulation, its current condition, and appropriate thickness will be examined. Your inspector will examine whether the windows are functioning properly. Inspectors will also note if the stairs have loose handrails or steps, and whether there are signs of cracked or repaired plaster in ceilings and walls. If a basement or portion of the home is unfinished, he or she will review its structure and habitability.

Your WIN inspector will determine if your basement and/or crawlspace were built according to industry standards. If they are not, your inspector will make recommendations for needed repairs and improvements. Most basements and crawlspaces are susceptible to moisture issues and water penetration. The type and degree of moisture-related trouble varies, but even if water doesn't damage your home's structure it could create an environment favored by wood-destroying organisms that will.

Your WIN inspector will examine interior condition of the kitchen, windows and entry doors, as well as any built-in appliances. Your inspector will also check the current condition of kitchen cabinets and countertops, signs of leakage under the sink or refrigerator, if applicable.

Your WIN inspector will examine the interior condition of the laundry area/room, closet doors, windows and entry doors. Your inspector will also determine whether there are appropriate hookups for a washer and dryer, whether there is an overflow drain installed, and if the area has appropriate ventilation.

Your WIN inspector will examine the interior of the bathroom(s), and will also check signs of moisture issues and the condition of components. For example, in bathrooms, are tiles loose – or is the toilet loose from its base, a sign that it needs to be resealed and may have leaked to the floor beneath?

Your WIN inspector will examine the interior condition of the attic area, any windows and entry doors. The active or passive ventilation system will be examined for proper function.

The presence or absence of insulation will be noted, and if present, approximate thickness will be evaluated. The roof will also be checked for any signs of moisture penetration or past/present leaks via an underside evaluation. The condition of the framing of the roof will also be reviewed from the interior for proper function and any deficiencies in the accessible areas.

The condition of any fireplaces, dampers, fire boxes and hearths that are readily visible will be examined by your WIN inspector. Your inspector will also determine if visible, any need for service, cleaning and/or repair of the fireplace and its components.

Your WIN inspector will examine the interior of the home to see if there is any evidence of remodeling or repair.

Inspectors will examine the flow of water within the home by running faucets, tubs, showers, and sinks. They will also determine what type of water pipes enter your home from the exterior and distribute water throughout your home, if visible. Depending on the type of piping they find, your WIN inspector can then assess the potential or existing issues that might be responsible for the way water is flowing in the home. In addition to examining piping, inspectors will look at leaks and drips and whether plumbing fixtures have been damaged and how water drains.

Your WIN inspector will check the incoming size of the water line, to make sure it is functional. Replacing distribution pipes can be a pricey endeavor, as is replacing exterior pipes that have corroded. Some exterior pipes are made of lead, and for health reasons it's generally recommended that lead pipes be replaced so that drinking water not pass through them.

Your WIN inspector will identify the type of plumbing materials where visible within the home and assess its condition and drainage. There are several major types of piping: copper, brass, galvanized steel, or CPVC (plastic) plumbing. Copper is considered the most reliable and long-lasting plumbing material, with brass the next best and galvanized steel last. Brass plumbing's longevity depends on your water's mineral content, as minerals can erode brass and cause small tiny leaks. Galvanized steel, while competent, can accumulate buildup from corrosion within pipes that constricts water flow over time and may require inhabitants of the house to take turns using water-related appliances rather than using them simultaneously.

Some problem products include polybutylene plumbing, which was installed between the 1970s and 1990s, has been found defective and buyers would be advised to research whether the plumbing needs repair or replacement or if they will qualify for funding available to replace it.

Your WIN inspector will identify the type of waste pipe material within the home and assess its condition and drainage. Common drain pipes include ABS and PVC plastic in newer homes, and black iron or galvanized steel in older ones.

Plumbing issues are often responsible for moisture-related complications in a home such as rot or mildew, so it's important to make sure pipes, sinks, and other water-related appliances function correctly or if they need repair. Your WIN inspector will examine plumbing for evidence of leaks.

Interior and exterior plumbing system is examined for functional flow, and exterior PSI is checked for minimum/maximum pressure compared to pipe material.

Any sump pump installed within the home will be evaluated for proper installation and function of the unit.

Your WIN inspector will identify the type of water heater within the home and its corresponding energy source, and also assess its installation, approximate age, current condition and any safety issues with the unit. A safety valve needs to be installed and attached to the unit with a proper drain line, and in some seismic-prone areas of the country, safety tie-downs are required. The system will also be checked for any evidence of leaks.

A home's electrical system is complex, and a home inspector will always review the point where a power line connects to a building on the outside before moving indoors to examine other components of the system. Your WIN inspector will locate the electrical panel or box that contains the major switches that route power throughout the property to see if the home is adequately configured for power consumption. Lighting, switches, fixture installation, and outdoor weather outlets will also be examined for proper grounding. In addition, the inspector will review electrical wiring where visible to make sure wires aren't showing signs of cracking or aging.

Your WIN inspector will identify the size of electrical service (amps/volts) within the home and assess its installation, approximate age, current condition and any associated safety issues.

Determining the type of structural wire leading into a home is also important because there are known issues with certain types. Single-strand aluminum wire will need further evaluation by a licensed electrician.

A home's electrical panel or box contains the major switches that control and route power throughout a property. A panel or box can contain circuit breakers (in a modern or updated home) or fuses and is generally configured to carry a certain load of electrical energy. Your WIN inspector will review whether the panel or box appears to be in functional condition and whether it has sufficient energy for the appliances and energy consumption typical of a  home of that era.

An electrical panel or box can contain circuit breakers (in a modern or updated home) or fuses configured to carry a certain load of electrical energy. Your WIN inspector will check the current condition of the home's breakers and/or fuses. Older fuse systems sometimes will need replacement simply due to age or limited capacity.

Your WIN inspector will check to see whether the home has fuses, breakers, or a combination of both, and their visible condition. We will evaluate wire size and the visible condition of devices as well.

An electrical panel or box can contain circuit breakers (in a modern or updated home) or fuses configured to carry a certain load of electrical energy. Your WIN inspector will check the current condition of the home's breakers and/or fuses. Older fuse systems sometimes will need replacement simply due to age or limited capacity.

Your WIN inspector will examine lighting throughout the house – both indoor and outdoor. Do the light switches and the doorbell work? Are ceiling fixtures an outdoor fixtures operating as designed? In addition, the inspector will examine whether plugs are grounded, and if applicable, whether appliances – especially major energy users like the stove, fridge, or washer/dryer – are functioning.

Your WIN inspector will look at electrical wiring to make sure the wires aren't showing signs of cracking or aging that could spark fires and check for improper wiring and issues with wiring where visible in the home. Many buyers of older homes learn that their electrical system needs to be updated – possibly as a contingency in the sale or for a reduction in the price of their homeowners' insurance premium.

Your WIN inspector will verify the current condition of electrical circuitry within the home, and whether the home has all grounded circuits or a combination, which is common in older homes, or no grounded circuits. Your WIN inspector will also verify the current main grounding method and bonding if visible, as well as the current condition of electrical service leading into the home.

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a device to protect against electrical shock. GFCIs are commonly installed in areas within a home where electricity has the possibility of coming in contact with water, specifically in kitchen, bathroom, laundry and garage areas, as well as outdoors. Your WIN inspector will check these areas to make sure the home is equipped with GFCIs in appropriate areas. Requirements for GFCIs depend on the year in which the home was built.

Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are electrical devices designed to protect against fires caused by arcing faults in the home electrical wiring. Your WIN inspector will check these areas to make sure the home is equipped with AFCIs in appropriate areas if your home. As of 2002, AFCIs are required to protect branch circuits that serve residential bedrooms. These areas of the house have been identified as the source of many electrical arc related fires.

The AFCI circuit breaker serves a dual purpose – not only will it shut off electricity in the event of an “arcing fault”, but it will also trip when a short circuit or an overload occurs. The AFCI circuit breaker provides protection for the branch circuit wiring and limited protection for power cords and extension cords.

Inspectors will review your home's heating system, noting their condition and age. In addition, the inspector will note whether the system's distribution and controls are functioning. As part of the inspection, the inspector will review whether heating and cooling systems show signs of overheating. The inspector will also check for potential maintenance issues with the heating system and will give guidance on the care and maintenance of the unit, depending on the type of system in the home you purchase.

Your WIN inspector will review your home's heating system, making sure that its master switches are operable, that the system is located in a safe area of the house, and noting its current condition. The system's energy source (gas, oil, hot water, electricity) and method used to conduct heat throughout the home will also be identified, and also whether the system has proper ventilation and venting. The system will be checked for proper operation, and a functional test will be performed. For homes that formerly used oil heat, your WIN inspector can help to determine if the tank was decommissioned, as you may be liable for an expensive removal or clean-up procedure if leaks occur.

In all visibly accessible areas, vents and/or flues will be examined for proper pitch and any visible damage to the system.

Heat is checked in all living areas of the home where ducts and/or returns are present.

The condition of any filters within the heating system will be checked by your WIN inspector. A dirty or old filter may affect overall performance and cause premature wear on a heating system. The system will also be checked for any service records/notes and recommend professional services and evaluation if needed. Lack of regular maintenance on a heating system may cause undue wear anda unreliable function of the system.

Inspectors will review your home's air conditioning system, noting their condition and age. In addition, the inspector will note whether the system's distribution is functional and if the controls are adequate. As part of the inspection, the inspector will review whether the system show signs of overheating. The inspector will also indicate the approximate age of the system and some of the care and maintenance issues you'll need to keep track of, depending on the type of home you purchase.

Your WIN inspector will review your home's cooling system, noting its condition and approximate age. The system's energy source and method used to conduct air throughout the home will also be identified. With cooling systems, the inspector will also review whether they are operational. Some cooling systems are located inside of the home, while many have separate indoor and outdoor components with a hot and cold side or hot and cold separate sections. The system will be checked for proper operation, and a functional test will be performed, temperature providing. Your WIN inspector will also indicate some of the care and maintenance issues you'll need to keep track of, depending on the type of system.

The flow of cooled air is checked in all living areas of the home where ducts and/or returns are present. Air temperature at outlets is also recorded to see if it fits in the functional range for proper cooling.

Your WIN inspector will check the primary and secondary drains from the unit to make sure they are properly draining from the system.