A home inspection is very thorough, basically it is like going over every aspect of the home with a fine toothed comb to make sure things are working properly, and don't just look like they are in good shape, but actually are in good shape. When a certified home inspector comes into your home, they should inspect all of the following:
- Kitchens and Appliances
- Plumbing
- Windows and Doors
- Fireplaces
- Attics
- Foundations
- Electrical Systems
- Heating and Cooling Systems
- Decks, Porches and Patios
- Exterior
- Roofs and Gutters
- Garages, Driveway, and Parking

The inspection should take some time because it is a lot to check. Faucets should be turned on, pilot lights lit to make sure they will light, the roof should be physically inspected. Your certified home inspector should not take any shortcuts. They should climb right up on the roof, and note any problems.

The inspector will check all of the above areas, and note any and all damages, problems, and potential problems the areas have. This is a great way to see things you may have overlooked.

What to look for in a certified home inspector?

There are plenty of certified home inspectors out there, so make sure you find one that fits all of the following criteria, as it will help you get the best home inspection possible, and protect you from the expensive head of ignorance should it choose to roar.

- Is your inspector a member in good standing of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI)? (Yes there is an association, so make sure the inspector you hire is part of it, and that they do not have any black marks on record.)

- Has your inspector passed NACHI's on-line inspector examination? (This is a yearly examination that keeps them up to date and knowledgeable about what is needed in the inspection process.)

- Have they completed NACHI's Code of Ethics obstacle course, and do they abide by it? (You do not want a sleezy inspector that could be paid off to not notice something by a seller, so make sure they abide by the code of ethics.)

- Have they passed NACHI's Standards of Practice test and follow do they them? (If yes, you are ensuring yourself a much better inspection experience.)

- Do they fulfill at least 24 hours of continuing education every year. (Technology in homes changes every year, and thus, your certified home inspector should stay up to date on what there is, and how it works.)

- Have they completed Allied Business Schools Home Inspection Certification Course?

- Do they have over ten years of experience in the construction industry? (while this may not seem necessary to you, think of it as a huge added bonus, they will know all of the short cuts builders take, and know what problems to look for, thus giving you better protection.)