Washington State requires licensed home inspectors to follow the Standards of Practice (WAC 308-408C). These standards define the minimum scope of every inspection. We meet those requirements as well as go beyond them to give our clients additional insights.
We inspect all major systems and components, including:
Structure – foundation, framing, crawlspaces, attics, stairs.
Exterior – siding, trim, decks, porches, doors, windows, visible chimneys.
Roof – coverings, gutters, flashings, skylights, penetrations, ventilation.
Plumbing – visible supply and drain lines, fixtures, faucets, water heater, shutoffs, TPR valves.
Electrical – service panel, subpanels, branch circuits, receptacles, GFCI/AFCI.
Heating & Cooling – fuel source, equipment, distribution, controls, venting, heat sources in all rooms.
Interior – walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, stairs, smoke detectors.
Insulation & Ventilation – attic and crawlspace insulation, vapor barriers, exhaust fans.
Fireplaces & Stoves – dampers, fireboxes, hearths.
Site – grading, drainage, contiguous driveways, walkways, patios, and vegetation near the home.
Garages & Carports – doors, openers, fire separation, safety sensors.
In addition to the state minimum, we also:
Test the basic operation of built-in appliances.
Note cosmetic issues when they impact use or maintenance (e.g., loose caulking, deteriorated finishes).
Document pest-conducive conditions and debris in crawlspaces.
Provide additional observations on vegetation, moss, and grading that may affect long-term performance.
Offer more detailed reporting on attic ventilation, insulation, and drainage than the SOP requires.
The Standards of Practice set a minimum. Our approach provides a more complete picture of the home while keeping within the scope of a general inspection. This helps buyers make better-informed decisions without stepping into specialized inspections such as pest control, HVAC servicing, or appliance warranties.