Home Inspection Checklist Wilmington, DE
No home is perfect — not even brand-new ones. To avoid purchasing a property with hidden issues, it’s smart to preview major components with your agent before making an offer. This helps ensure your investment is sound and stress-free.
A home inspection checklist is a helpful tool to identify and document a home’s key features while previewing it. Keep in mind, though, that a checklist isn’t a substitute for a professional inspection — it simply helps you note visible conditions and compare properties with confidence.
Here’s an example of what to include when previewing homes in Wilmington and nearby areas:
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THE BIG PICTURE
Take a moment to observe neighboring homes built around the same time. Look for general signs of wear, maintenance, or neglect — these often reflect the overall condition of homes in the area and can reveal potential deal-breakers early.
ROOF
A simple visual evaluation of the roof may suffice.
Check for any damage present, such as broken tiles or missing shingles. Are there any obvious patches?
Check the chimney and flashing. Are there any missing and damaged bricks and cracked joints?
Check the attic. Is there adequate ventilation and insulation?
Check the gutters and downspouts. Are they attached securely to the structure? Are there any signs of bending or sagging?
Check for any wood rots as well as other roof penetrations too.
FLOORS
Check the type of flooring material.
Are there any stains or signs of damage?
Will any need restoration or replacement?
For wooden floors, you can test exposed areas by gently prodding with a flat screwdriver. Soft areas can be tell-tale signs of wet or dry rot.
WALLS
Check that interior and exterior walls are level. Are they bowed, sagged, bulging, or leaning?
Are there any cracks? Note that these may be caused by several factors, from shoddy construction to inevitable movement over time.
Are there any flaking or mismatched paint?
What is the condition of the wall coverings?
For brick walls, check for any breaks or spaces.
Note what insulation type is installed in the walls. Is there adequate insulation behind the walls?
CEILINGS
Are the ceilings straight and intact?
Are there any stains or signs of previous water damage from leaks?
Will any of the ceilings need repainting?
What type of insulation is installed in the ceilings?
Note any significant cracks.
WINDOWS & DOORS
How is the condition of the windows and doors? Do they operate and latch well?
Do the window and door frames appear square?
Are the frame joints caulked or insulated?
Are there any cracks, rot, or decay?
If any locks are present, do they work?
Do the windows and doors have weather-stripping? What kind? Are they in good condition?
BATHROOM & KITCHEN
Are all plumbing fixtures and faucets secure?
Are there cracks on the fixtures?
Is there adequate water flow and pressure at all fixtures?
Do the sinks, tubs, and showers drain properly?
Note the condition of the tubs and shower tiles.
Note any leak, rust, unusual noises, or other signs of neglect.
ELECTRICAL
When testing electrical elements, make sure that all necessary safety measures are taken.
Is there any open wiring?
Are the fuses or breakers overheating?
Ensure that cables are secure and safe.
Check all electrical receptacles and switches for functionality.
When was the last time the heating and cooling (HVAC) system was inspected?
Were there any upgrades lately?
No home is complete without appliances. Check all appliances if they are all working properly.
HVAC SYSTEM
Inspect and determine if the system has been serviced lately. Look for upkeep by the owner, is their dust, dirt around the system, are air vents dusty/dirty.
WATER HEATER
The water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home and often, taken for granted. When looking at the water heater, is there evidence of rust, any leaking at the top or the bottom of the water heater? Cracks? Does it make noises? Do you notice smelly water or discolored water?
A home inspection checklist keeps your search organized and stress-free. Use it to track which properties need work, which are move-in ready, and which to skip altogether.
📎 Click here to download your Wilmington, Delaware Home Inspection Checklist
Print a copy and take it with you as you tour homes — jot down notes and compare details easily.
Ready for a Professional Home Inspection?
Go beyond the checklist — let our certified inspectors give you peace of mind before you buy.
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At Quality Home Inspections, we offer a simple, no weasel words Guarantee. Attend the home inspection, and if for any reason you’re not satisfied with the “Quality” of the home inspection service, tell the inspector before receiving your report and we’ll either make it right, or you don’t pay the home inspection fee.
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