Buying a home comes with a lot of moving parts, and it is easy to feel like you might miss something important along the way. One of the most common questions buyers ask is what exactly gets looked at during a home inspection.
While every inspection is different, a professional home inspection follows a consistent structure. This checklist is designed to help buyers understand what is typically evaluated and why it matters, especially for homes in Fargo ND and surrounding North Dakota and Minnesota communities.
This is not a repair list or a pass or fail scorecard. It is a practical overview of what a home inspection is meant to cover.
Exterior and Site Conditions
The inspection starts on the outside of the home. Exterior conditions often tell an important story about drainage, moisture, and long term maintenance.
Common exterior items inspected include:
- Grading and drainage around the foundation
- Driveways, walkways, and steps
- Siding, trim, and exterior finishes
- Windows and exterior doors
- Decks, porches, and railings
- Roof coverings, flashing, and visible penetrations
- Gutters and downspouts
In Fargo ND, proper grading and drainage are especially important due to clay soils and seasonal snow melt. Small exterior issues can lead to larger moisture problems if left unaddressed.
Roof and Attic
The roof and attic work together to protect the home from weather and moisture. These areas are carefully evaluated when accessible.
Typical inspection items include:
- Roof material condition and estimated remaining life
- Signs of roof leaks or repairs
- Attic insulation levels
- Attic ventilation
- Visible moisture staining or frost buildup
- Roof structure as visible from the attic
Cold winters make attic performance critical. Poor insulation or ventilation can contribute to ice dams, heat loss, and moisture issues.
Foundation and Structure
The foundation and structural components support the entire home. The goal of the inspection is to look for visible signs of movement or distress, not to predict future performance.
Inspection areas include:
- Foundation walls and floor slabs
- Visible cracks or displacement
- Support posts and beams
- Floor structure as visible from basements or crawlspaces
- Signs of water intrusion or past repairs
Foundation movement is common in this region, especially in older homes. The key is understanding what is typical and what may need further evaluation.
Electrical System
Electrical safety is a major focus of any home inspection. Systems are evaluated for visible hazards and general functionality.
Common electrical inspection items include:
- Service entrance and main panel
- Circuit breakers or fuses
- Visible wiring types and connections
- Grounding and bonding
- A representative number of outlets and switches
- GFCI and AFCI protection where applicable
The inspection helps identify outdated or improperly installed components that may need correction.
Plumbing System
Plumbing inspections focus on supply, drainage, and fixtures that are visible and accessible.
Typical plumbing checks include:
- Water supply piping materials
- Drain and vent piping
- Water heater condition and age
- Visible leaks or corrosion
- Sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets
- Functional water pressure and drainage
In older Fargo area homes, plumbing materials and past modifications are common areas of discussion during inspections.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Mechanical systems are expensive to replace, so understanding their condition is important for buyers.
Inspection items include:
- Furnace or boiler operation
- Air conditioner operation when weather permits
- Visible ductwork
- Venting and combustion air
- Thermostat function
Inspectors also provide general information about system age and typical service life.
Interior Components
Interior spaces are evaluated for function, safety, and visible concerns.
This includes:
- Walls, ceilings, and floors
- Windows and doors
- Stairs and railings
- Built in appliances
- Garage interiors and fire separation
Interior findings often help buyers understand wear and maintenance rather than immediate repair needs.
What This Checklist Does Not Include
A standard home inspection is visual and non invasive. It does not include:
- Opening walls or ceilings
- Moving personal belongings
- Code compliance verification
- Predicting future failures
Specialty services such as radon testing, sewer scopes, or mold sampling are often recommended separately based on the home and location.
Final Thoughts
A home inspection checklist helps buyers understand the scope of the inspection and feel prepared on inspection day. It also reinforces an important point. A home inspection is about understanding the home, not judging it.
If you are buying a home in Fargo ND or the surrounding area and want a clear explanation of what is being inspected and why it matters, Nordic Inspections is always available to answer questions and help you move forward with confidence. 701-566-1446 ext. 0