The Property Walkthrough Checklist

What to look for before you even call an inspector.

• Walked the whole property, not just the rooms I liked.
• Checked the roof from the ground for missing shingles or sagging.
• Checked ceilings and walls for water stains.
• Checked the foundation for cracks larger than a hairline.
• Tested every faucet and toilet for slow drains or weak pressure.
• Checked the water heater's age (stamped on the tank, most last 8-12 years).
• Checked the electrical panel for an old fuse box or exposed wiring.
• Ran the HVAC's heat and AC and listened for strange noises.
• Walked the yard and checked for standing water near the foundation.
• Opened and closed every window, checked for stuck frames or foggy panes.
• Checked the basement or crawl space for a musty smell.
• Looked for signs of pests or termite damage: mud tubes, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings.
• If built before 1978, flagged this for a lead paint test. Federal law requires disclosure either way.
• Took photos of everything.