What You’ll Find on the South Carolina Home Inspection Checklist

Buying a dream home can be a very involved process that includes multiple steps and months of searching. The fun part includes working with an amazing real estate agent to explore popular neighborhoods and tour homes until you find “the one.”

Once you locate your desired property and make an offer that is then accepted, you’ll have to hire a home inspector. In most cases, buying or selling is contingent on these results. In our state, each South Carolina home inspection evaluates every component from the yard to the roof and everything in between.

Here's What You’ll Find on South Carolina Home Inspection Checklist

Inspection requirements can vary from state to state, and the Standard Practice for Home Inspections from the American Society of Home Inspectors is exhaustive. Here are a few of the key components of every South Carolina home inspection.

Your home inspection report will include an evaluation of the lot on which the home sits. An inspector will look for soggy areas in the yard and see if drainage flows away from the house.

Structural Components

In addition to the superficial components of a home, an inspector will assess the strength of the foundation and framing of the building.

Roof

When evaluating the condition of a roof, home inspectors look at the entire system, including shingles, flashing, and skylights. They’ll identify weak spots, loose shingles, and signs of aging and decay, as well as note the overall condition and age of the roof.

Exterior

Before heading inside, an inspector will check out the rest of a home’s exterior. This includes siding, soffit, porches, balconies, walkways, railings and driveways. If anything needs repairs or repainting, it will be noted in the inspection report.

Interior and Attic

Inside the home, an inspection will detail the condition of the walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, stairs and railings. In the attic, inspectors will observe the structure of the roof and look for signs of leaks.

Electrical

The electrical system of a home is also inspected. Switches are tested, and malfunctions are noted. An inspector will check to see how the electric panel looks and if the outlets have been grounded.

Plumbing

All components of the plumbing system, including pipes, drains, water heaters, sump pumps, and sewer lines will also be evaluated.

Heating and Cooling Systems

An inspector will also check the heating and cooling systems in the house to ensure they are in proper working order. If there is a furnace or fireplace, information about those features will also be covered.

Appliances

If appliances like the stove, dishwasher or refrigerator come with the home, they will be tested to make sure they function properly.

Consider a Pre-Inspection Before Putting Your Property on the Market for Sale

It is a common misconception that home inspections are solely in the interest of the buyer. However, if you’re selling your home, you might want to schedule an official South Carolina home inspection before putting it on the market. Doing so will allow you to identify and resolve any hidden problems before a buyer does.

Let Us Help You With Your Real Estate Needs

Whether you’re searching for your dream home in the Lowcountry or you’re putting your current property on the market, let the real estate team at Pam Harrington Exclusives assist you along the way!

With over 40 years of experience on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw Island, and the surrounding Charleston area, our team can help you buy or sell some of the most sought after real estate and luxury island properties in the U.S.