As a Certified Professional Inspector trained by interNACHI, I follow a comprehensive Residential Standards of Practice. Most of your inspection will be related to maintenance recommendations and minor imperfections. These are good to know about. However, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:

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1. Major defects, such as structural failure

2. Conditions that can lead to major defects, such as roof leak

3. Issues that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home if not rectified immediately

4. Safety hazards, such as exposed, live buss bar at the electrical panel

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Anything in these categories should be addressed as soon as possible. Often, a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property.