Your home inspection report is designed to help you understand the visible condition of the home at the time of the inspection. The report includes photos, observations, and recommendations to help explain what was found and what steps may be recommended next.
Start With the Summary
The summary section is a helpful place to begin because it collects many of the report comments in one area. It can be used as a quick reference, but it should not replace reading the full report. The full report includes additional context, photos, limitations, and details that may not be fully understood from the summary alone.
Example of the inspection report summary section.
Understanding the Categories
Inspection comments may be grouped by level of concern to help organize observations within the report. Not every item noted during the inspection is considered a major issue. Many homes, including newer homes, will contain maintenance items, defects, or recommendations for improvement.
Informational or Cosmetic Items
These are typically minor maintenance items, cosmetic conditions, or observations that do not significantly affect the overall function of the home.
Defects
These are conditions that may affect performance, function, or reliability. Repair, correction, or further evaluation may be recommended depending on the condition observed.
Material Defects or Safety Concerns
These are more significant conditions that may involve safety concerns, active water intrusion, or potentially costly repairs. Further evaluation or repair by a qualified licensed contractor or specialist may be recommended.
Review the Photos and Comments
Photos are included throughout the report to help document observations and identify the location or condition being described. In some cases, arrows, circles, or labels may be added to help clarify the concern being referenced.
Not every photo included in the report represents a major issue. Some photos may be provided for general documentation purposes or to help explain maintenance recommendations.
Understanding Recommendations
Inspection comments typically include a recommendation based on the condition observed at the time of the inspection. Recommendations may include routine maintenance, repair, monitoring, or further evaluation by a qualified licensed contractor or specialist.
Further evaluation may be recommended when the full condition of a component cannot be determined during a visual home inspection, or when specialized expertise may be beneficial.
Example of an inspection report comment including photos, observations, and a recommended next step.
Understanding the PDF Versions and Sharing the Report
After the inspection report is delivered, multiple viewing options may be available, including an online version of the report as well as downloadable PDF copies.
The full report PDF includes all sections, photos, comments, and additional inspection information. This version is generally recommended for a complete review of the property and inspection findings.
A summary PDF may also be available. The summary version is designed as a shorter overview and typically includes many of the more significant observations from the inspection report. While helpful as a quick reference, the summary should not replace reviewing the full report.
Inspection reports are commonly shared with real estate agents, attorneys, contractors, or other parties involved in the transaction. Clients should use discretion when sharing the report and understand that the report was prepared specifically for the client named in the inspection agreement.
Example of the available report viewing and PDF options.
Questions After Reviewing the Report
Questions are common after reviewing a home inspection report. If clarification is needed regarding a comment, photo, or recommendation, D.A. Inspections can help explain the observation and provide additional general guidance regarding the condition noted in the report.
