A standard home inspection is a non-destructive, visual inspection of a home that is performed by a certified home inspector. A structure comprises hundreds of systems and components, and according to most of the home inspection standards, they fall under the following categories.

Structure: Footings, foundations, walls, beams, columns, floors, roofs, joists, rafters etc.

Roofing: Roof type, roof covering material, roof drainage, gutters, downspouts, chimneys, flashings, skylights etc.

Exterior: Wallcoverings, doors, windows, vegetation, land slope, ground drainage, stairs, handrails, porches, guardrails, driveway, sidewalks etc.

Interior: Walls, floors, ceilings, steps, handrails, doors, windows etc.

Plumbing: Water supply pipes, taps, main shutoff valve, drainage pipes, vents, sump pumps, hot water tanks etc.

Electrical: Service drop, wiring, panels, breakers, fuses, lights, switches, outlets, GFCIs, AFCIs etc.

HVAC: Heating and cooling equipment, energy sources, thermostats, distribution systems, ventilation etc.

Insulation: Insulating material, air/vapour barrier etc.