Home Inspection Education3 min read

What Does a Home Inspection Cover? A Complete Guide

By AP Inspections|
Home inspection report showing what a professional inspection covers

What Gets Inspected?

A professional home inspection is a thorough, visual evaluation of every accessible area and major system in a home. Whether you are buying your first home in Angola or purchasing your fifth property in Auburn, the inspection covers the same critical areas.

Here is what we evaluate during every inspection at AP Inspections.

Structural Components

The structure is the skeleton of the house. We inspect:

  • Foundation — cracks, settling, moisture intrusion, and structural integrity
  • Framing — visible framing members in basements, attics, and crawl spaces
  • Floors, walls, and ceilings — signs of movement, water damage, or structural compromise

Many older homes in northeast Indiana — especially those built before 1960 in towns like Kendallville and Garrett — have stone or block foundations that deserve close attention.

Roofing System

The roof protects everything below it. We check:

  • Shingle condition, age, and remaining lifespan
  • Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
  • Gutters and downspouts
  • Attic ventilation and insulation
  • Signs of leaks or previous repairs

Electrical System

Electrical problems are both a safety hazard and an expensive repair. Our inspection includes:

  • Main panel condition and capacity
  • Wiring type (copper, aluminum, knob-and-tube)
  • Outlet testing including GFCI protection
  • Visible wiring condition
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Older homes in the region sometimes still have knob-and-tube wiring or undersized panels — both worth knowing about before you buy.

Plumbing System

We evaluate the water supply and drainage systems:

  • Pipe material and condition
  • Water heater age, condition, and safety
  • Fixtures and faucets
  • Water pressure
  • Signs of leaks or previous water damage
  • Septic system components (where applicable)

Homes in rural areas of Steuben County and LaGrange County often use well water and septic systems, which have specific inspection considerations.

HVAC System (Heating and Cooling)

  • Furnace or boiler condition and age
  • Air conditioning system
  • Ductwork (visible sections)
  • Thermostat operation
  • Filter condition

We note the age and condition of these systems so you know what to budget for replacement.

Exterior

  • Siding condition (vinyl, wood, brick, stone)
  • Windows and doors — seals, operation, condition
  • Drainage and grading around the foundation
  • Driveways, walkways, and patios
  • Decks and porches — structural condition and safety

Interior

  • Walls, floors, and ceilings in every room
  • Doors and windows — operation and condition
  • Stairs and railings
  • Built-in appliances
  • Garage — structure, door operation, fire separation

What's NOT Included

A standard home inspection is visual and non-invasive. We do not:

  • Move furniture or personal belongings
  • Open walls or ceilings
  • Test for radon, mold, or asbestos (separate specialized tests)
  • Inspect underground utilities
  • Evaluate cosmetic conditions

If specialized testing is needed, we can recommend qualified providers in the area.

Download Our Inspection Checklists

Want to see exactly what we look for? Download the full checklists our inspectors use — covering every item we evaluate during a pre-purchase or pre-listing inspection. Get your free copies below.

You Get a Same-Day Report

After the inspection, you receive a detailed report the same day — with photos, descriptions of every finding, and clear explanations of what needs attention. No waiting days for critical information.

Schedule Your Inspection

Have questions about what we inspect? Call us at (260) 668-6848 or schedule your inspection online. We serve Angola, Auburn, Kendallville, LaGrange, and communities throughout northeast Indiana.

Download Our Inspection Checklists

See exactly what a professional inspector evaluates. Enter your name and email to download.

Pre-Purchase Inspection ChecklistEvery item we evaluate when you are buying a home
Pre-Listing Inspection ChecklistWhat we check when sellers inspect before listing

We will never share your email. You may receive a follow-up about our inspection services.

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