Home Inspection Standard of Practice

Table of Contents

1. Definitions and Scope

1.1.  A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of
the accessible areas of a residential property (as delineated below),
performed for a fee, which is designed to identify defects within
specific systems and components defined by these Standards that are both
observed and deemed material by the inspector.  The scope of work may be
modified by the Client and Inspector prior to the inspection process.

1. The home inspection is based on the observations made on the date of
   the inspection, and not a prediction of future conditions.
2. The home inspection will not reveal every issue that exists or ever
   could exist, but only those material defects observed on the date of
   the inspection.

1.2.  A material defect is a specific issue with a system or
component of a residential property that may have a significant, adverse
impact on the value of the property, or that poses an unreasonable risk
to people.  The fact that a system or component is near, at, or beyond
the end of its normal, useful life is not, in itself, a material defect.

1.3.  A home inspection report shall identify, in written
format, defects within specific systems and components defined by these
Standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector.
Inspection reports may include additional comments and recommendations.

2. Limitations, Exceptions and Exclusions

2.1. Limitations:

1. An inspection is not technically exhaustive.
2. An inspection will not identify concealed or latent defects. 
3. An inspection will not deal with aesthetic concerns, or what could
   be deemed matters of taste, cosmetic defects, etc. 
4. An inspection will not determine the suitability of the property for
   any use. 
5. An inspection does not determine the market value of the property or
   its marketability.
6. An inspection does not determine the insurability of the property. 
7. An inspection does not determine the advisability or inadvisability
   of the purchase of the inspected property. 
8. An inspection does not determine the life expectancy of the
   property or any components or systems therein. 
9. An inspection does not include items not permanently installed. 
10. This Standards of Practice applies to properties with four or fewer
    residential units and their attached garages and carports.

2.2. Exclusions:

1. The inspector is not required to determine:
   1. property boundary lines or encroachments.
   2. the condition of any component or system that is not readily
      accessible. 
   3. the service life expectancy of any component or system. 
   4. the size, capacity, BTU, performance or efficiency of any component
      or system. 
   5. the cause or reason of any condition. 
   6. the cause for the need of correction, repair or replacement of any
      system or component. 
   7. future conditions. 
   8. compliance with codes or regulations. 
   9. the presence of evidence of rodents, birds, bats, animals, insects,
      or other pests. 
   10. the presence of mold, mildew or fungus.
   11. the presence of airborne hazards, including radon. 
   12. the air quality. 
   13. the existence of environmental hazards, including lead paint,
       asbestos or toxic drywall.
   14. the existence of electromagnetic fields. 
   15. any hazardous waste conditions. 
   16. any manufacturers’ recalls or conformance with manufacturer
       installation, or any information included for consumer protection
       purposes.
   17. acoustical properties.
   18. correction, replacement or repair cost estimates. 
   19. estimates of the cost to operate any given system.
2. The inspector is not required to operate:
   1. any system that is shut down.
   2. any system that does not function properly. 
   3. or evaluate low-voltage electrical systems, such as, but not limited
      to:
      1. phone lines;
      2. cable lines;
      3. satellite dishes;
      4. antennae;
      5. lights; or
      6. remote controls.
   4. any system that does not turn on with the use of normal operating
      controls. 
   5. any shut-off valves or manual stop valves. 
   6. any electrical disconnect or over-current protection devices. 
   7. any alarm systems. 
   8. moisture meters, gas detectors or similar equipment.
3. The inspector is not required to:
   1. move any personal items or other obstructions, such as, but not
      limited to:  throw rugs, carpeting, wall coverings, furniture,
      ceiling tiles, window coverings, equipment, plants, ice, debris,
      snow, water, dirt, pets, or anything else that might restrict the
      visual inspection.
   2. dismantle, open or uncover any system or component.
   3. enter or access any area that may, in the inspector’s opinion, be
      unsafe. 
   4. enter crawlspaces or other areas that may be unsafe or not readily
      accessible. 
   5. inspect underground items, such as, but not limited to:
      lawn-irrigation systems, or underground storage tanks (or
      indications of their presence), whether abandoned or actively used. 
   6. do anything that may, in the inspector’s opinion, be unsafe or
      dangerous to the inspector or others, or damage property, such as,
      but not limited to:  walking on roof surfaces, climbing ladders,
      entering attic spaces, or negotiating with pets. 
   7. inspect decorative items. 
   8. inspect common elements or areas in multi-unit housing. 
   9. inspect intercoms, speaker systems or security systems.
   10. offer guarantees or warranties. 
   11. offer or perform any engineering services. 
   12. offer or perform any trade or professional service other than a home
       inspection. 
   13. research the history of the property, or report on its potential for
       alteration, modification, extendibility or suitability for a
       specific or proposed use for occupancy. 
   14. determine the age of construction or installation of any system,
       structure or component of a building, or differentiate between
       original construction and subsequent additions, improvements,
       renovations or replacements. 
   15. determine the insurability of a property.
   16. perform or offer Phase 1 or environmental audits.
   17. inspect any system or component that is not included in these
       Standards.

3. Standards of Practice

3.1. Roof

1. The inspector shall inspect from ground level or the eaves:
   1. the roof-covering materials;
   2. the gutters;
   3. the downspouts;
   4. the vents, flashing, skylights, chimney, and other roof
      penetrations; and 
   5. the general structure of the roof from the readily accessible
      panels, doors or stairs.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the type of roof-covering materials.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. observed indications of active roof leaks.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. walk on any roof surface.
   2. predict the service life expectancy. 
   3. inspect underground downspout diverter drainage pipes. 
   4. remove snow, ice, debris or other conditions that prohibit the
      observation of the roof surfaces.
   5. move insulation. 
   6. inspect antennae, satellite dishes, lightning arresters, de-icing
      equipment, or similar attachments.
   7. walk on any roof areas that appear, in the inspector’s opinion, to
      be unsafe.
   8. walk on any roof areas if doing so might, in the inspector’s
      opinion, cause damage. 
   9. perform a water test.
   10. warrant or certify the roof.
   11. confirm proper fastening or installation of any roof-covering
       material.

3.2. Exterior

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. the exterior wall-covering materials; 
   2. the eaves, soffits and fascia;
   3. a representative number of windows;
   4. all exterior doors;
   5. flashing and trim;
   6. adjacent walkways and driveways;
   7. stairs, steps, stoops, stairways and ramps;
   8. porches, patios, decks, balconies and carports;
   9. railings, guards and handrails; and 
   10. vegetation, surface drainage, retaining walls and grading of the
       property, where they may adversely affect the structure due to
       moisture intrusion. 
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the type of exterior wall-covering materials.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. any improper spacing between intermediate balusters, spindles and
      rails.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. inspect or operate screens, storm windows, shutters, awnings,
      fences, outbuildings, or exterior accent lighting.
   2. inspect items that are not visible or readily accessible from the
      ground, including window and door flashing. 
   3. inspect or identify geological, geotechnical, hydrological or soil
      conditions. 
   4. inspect recreational facilities or playground equipment. 
   5. inspect seawalls, breakwalls or docks. 
   6. inspect erosion-control or earth-stabilization measures. 
   7. inspect for safety-type glass. 
   8. inspect underground utilities. 
   9. inspect underground items. 
   10. inspect wells or springs. 
   11. inspect solar, wind or geothermal systems. 
   12. inspect swimming pools or spas. 
   13. inspect wastewater treatment systems, septic systems or cesspools. 
   14. inspect irrigation or sprinkler systems. 
   15. inspect drainfields or dry wells. 
   16. determine the integrity of multiple-pane window glazing or thermal
       window seals.

3.3. Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace and Structure

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. the foundation;
   2. the basement;
   3. the crawlspace; and
   4. structural components.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the type of foundation; and
   2. the location of the access to the under-floor space.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. observed indications of wood in contact with or near soil;
   2. observed indications of active water penetration; 
   3. observed indications of possible foundation movement, such as
      sheetrock cracks, brick cracks, out-of-square door frames, and
      unlevel floors; and
   4. any observed cutting, notching and boring of framing members that
      may, in the inspector’s opinion, present a structural or safety
      concern.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. enter any crawlspace that is not readily accessible, or where entry
      could cause damage or pose a hazard to the inspector.
   2. move stored items or debris. 
   3. operate sump pumps with inaccessible floats. 
   4. identify the size, spacing, span or location or determine the
      adequacy of foundation bolting, bracing, joists, joist spans or
      support systems. 
   5. provide any engineering or architectural service. 
   6. report on the adequacy of any structural system or component.

3.4. Heating

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. the heating system, using normal operating controls.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the location of the thermostat for the heating system;
   2. the energy source; and
   3. the heating method.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. any heating system that did not operate; and
   2. if the heating system was deemed inaccessible.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. inspect, measure, or evaluate the interior of flues or chimneys,
      fire chambers, heat exchangers, combustion air systems, fresh-air
      intakes, makeup air, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air
      filters, geothermal systems, or solar heating systems.
   2. inspect fuel tanks or underground or concealed fuel supply systems. 
   3. determine the uniformity, temperature, flow, balance, distribution,
      size, capacity, BTU, or supply adequacy of the heating system. 
   4. light or ignite pilot flames. 
   5. activate heating, heat pump systems, or other heating systems when
      ambient temperatures or other circumstances are not conducive to
      safe operation or may damage the equipment. 
   6. override electronic thermostats. 
   7. evaluate fuel quality.
   8. verify thermostat calibration, heat anticipation, or automatic
      setbacks, timers, programs or clocks.
   9. measure or calculate the air for combustion, ventilation, or
      dilution of flue gases for appliances.

3.5. Cooling

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. the cooling system, using normal operating controls.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the location of the thermostat for the cooling system; and
   2. the cooling method.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. any cooling system that did not operate; and
   2. if the cooling system was deemed inaccessible.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. determine the uniformity, temperature, flow, balance, distribution,
      size, capacity, BTU, or supply adequacy of the cooling system.
   2. inspect portable window units, through-wall units, or electronic air
      filters. 
   3. operate equipment or systems if the exterior temperature is below
      65° Fahrenheit, or when other circumstances are not conducive to
      safe operation or may damage the equipment. 
   4. inspect or determine thermostat calibration, cooling anticipation,
      or automatic setbacks or clocks. 
   5. examine electrical current, coolant fluids or gases, or coolant
      leakage.

3.6. Plumbing

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. the main water supply shut-off valve;
   2. the main fuel supply shut-off valve;
   3. the water heating equipment, including the energy source, venting
      connections, temperature/pressure-relief (TPR) valves, Watts 210
      valves, and seismic bracing;
   4. interior water supply, including all fixtures and faucets, by
      running the water;
   5. all toilets for proper operation by flushing;
   6. all sinks, tubs and showers for functional drainage;
   7. the drain, waste and vent system; and
   8. drainage sump pumps with accessible floats.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. whether the water supply is public or private based upon observed
      evidence;
   2. the location of the main water supply shut-off valve;
   3. the location of the main fuel supply shut-off valve;
   4. the location of any observed fuel-storage system; and
   5. the capacity of the water heating equipment, if labeled.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. deficiencies in the water supply by viewing the functional flow in
      two fixtures operated simultaneously;
   2. deficiencies in the installation of hot and cold water faucets;
   3. active plumbing water leaks that were observed during the
      inspection; and  
   4. toilets that were damaged, had loose connections to the floor, were
      leaking, or had tank components that did not operate.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. light or ignite pilot flames.
   2. measure the capacity, temperature, age, life expectancy or adequacy
      of the water heater. 
   3. inspect the interior of flues or chimneys, combustion air systems,
      water softener or filtering systems, well pumps or tanks, safety or
      shut-off valves, floor drains, lawn sprinkler systems, or fire
      sprinkler systems. 
   4. determine the exact flow rate, volume, pressure, temperature or
      adequacy of the water supply. 
   5. determine the water quality, potability or reliability of the water
      supply or source. 
   6. open sealed plumbing access panels. 
   7. inspect clothes washing machines or their connections. 
   8. operate any valve.
   9. test shower pans, tub and shower surrounds or enclosures for leakage
      or for functional overflow protection. 
   10. evaluate the compliance with conservation, energy or building
       standards, or the proper design or sizing of any water, waste or
       venting components, fixtures or piping. 
   11. determine the effectiveness of anti-siphon, back-flow prevention or
       drain-stop devices. 
   12. determine whether there are sufficient cleanouts for effective
       cleaning of drains. 
   13. evaluate fuel storage tanks or supply systems.
   14. inspect wastewater treatment systems.
   15. inspect water treatment systems or water filters. 
   16. inspect water storage tanks, pressure pumps, or bladder tanks. 
   17. evaluate wait time to obtain hot water at fixtures, or perform
       testing of any kind to water heater elements. 
   18. evaluate or determine the adequacy of combustion air. 
   19. test, operate, open or close: safety controls, manual stop valves,
       temperature/pressure-relief valves, control valves, or check valves.
   20. examine ancillary or auxiliary systems or components, such as, but
       not limited to, those related to solar water heating and hot water
       circulation.
   21. determine the existence or condition of polybutylene, polyethylene,
       or similar plastic piping.
   22. inspect or test for gas or fuel leaks, or indications thereof.

3.7. Electrical

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. the service drop;
   2. the overhead service conductors and attachment point;
   3. the service head, gooseneck and drip loops;
   4. the service mast, service conduit and raceway;
   5. the electric meter and base;
   6. service-entrance conductors;
   7. the main service disconnect;
   8. panelboards and over-current protection devices (circuit breakers
      and fuses);
   9. service grounding and bonding;
   10. a representative number of switches, lighting fixtures and
       receptacles, including receptacles observed and deemed to be
       arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI)-protected using the AFCI test
       button, where possible;
   11. all ground-fault circuit interrupter receptacles and circuit
       breakers observed and deemed to be GFCIs using a GFCI tester, where
       possible; and
   12. for the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the main service disconnect’s amperage rating, if labeled; and 
   2. the type of wiring observed.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. deficiencies in the integrity of the service-entrance conductors’
      insulation, drip loop, and vertical clearances from grade and roofs;
   2. any unused circuit-breaker panel opening that was not filled;
   3. the presence of solid conductor aluminum branch-circuit wiring, if
      readily visible;
   4. any tested receptacle in which power was not present, polarity was
      incorrect, the cover was not in place, the GFCI devices were not
      properly installed or did not operate properly, evidence of arcing
      or excessive heat, and where the receptacle was not grounded or was
      not secured to the wall; and
   5. the absence of smoke and/or carbon monoxide detectors.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. insert any tool, probe or device into the main panelboard,
      sub-panels, distribution panelboards, or electrical fixtures.
   2. operate electrical systems that are shut down. 
   3. remove panelboard cabinet covers or dead fronts.
   4. operate or re-set over-current protection devices or overload
      devices. 
   5. operate or test smoke or carbon monoxide detectors or alarms.
   6. inspect, operate or test any security, fire or alarm systems or
      components, or other warning or signaling systems.
   7. measure or determine the amperage or voltage of the main service
      equipment, if not visibly labeled.
   8. inspect ancillary wiring or remote-control devices. 
   9. activate any electrical systems or branch circuits that are not
      energized. 
   10. inspect low-voltage systems, electrical de-icing tapes, swimming
       pool wiring, or any time-controlled devices. 
   11. verify the service ground. 
   12. inspect private or emergency electrical supply sources, including,
       but not limited to: generators, windmills, photovoltaic solar
       collectors, or battery or electrical storage facility. 
   13. inspect spark or lightning arrestors.
   14. inspect or test de-icing equipment. 
   15. conduct voltage-drop calculations. 
   16. determine the accuracy of labeling.
   17. inspect exterior lighting. 

3.8. Fireplace

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. readily accessible and visible portions of the fireplaces and
      chimneys;
   2. lintels above the fireplace openings;
   3. damper doors by opening and closing them, if readily accessible and
      manually operable; and
   4. cleanout doors and frames.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the type of fireplace.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. evidence of joint separation, damage or deterioration of the hearth,
      hearth extension or chambers;
   2. manually operated dampers that did not open and close;
   3. the lack of a smoke detector in the same room as the fireplace;
   4. the lack of a carbon monoxide detector in the same room as the
      fireplace; and
   5. cleanouts not made of metal, pre-cast cement, or other
      non-combustible material.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. inspect the flue or vent system.
   2. inspect the interior of chimneys or flues, fire doors or screens,
      seals or gaskets, or mantels. 
   3. determine the need for a chimney sweep. 
   4. operate gas fireplace inserts. 
   5. light pilot flames. 
   6. determine the appropriateness of any installation. 
   7. inspect automatic fuel-fed devices. 
   8. inspect combustion and/or make-up air devices. 
   9. inspect heat-distribution assists, whether gravity-controlled or
      fan-assisted. 
   10. ignite or extinguish fires. 
   11. determine the adequacy of drafts or draft characteristics. 
   12. move fireplace inserts, stoves or firebox contents. 
   13. perform a smoke test.
   14. dismantle or remove any component.
   15. perform a National Fire Protection Association
       (NFPA)-style inspection.
   16. perform a Phase I fireplace and chimney inspection.

3.9. Attic, Insulation and Ventilation

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. insulation in unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and
      foundation areas;
   2. ventilation of unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and
      foundation areas; and
   3. mechanical exhaust systems in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry
      area.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. the type of insulation observed; and
   2. the approximate average depth of insulation observed at the
      unfinished attic floor area or roof structure.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. the general absence of insulation or ventilation in unfinished
      spaces.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. enter the attic or any unfinished spaces that are not readily
      accessible, or where entry could cause damage or, in the
      inspector’s opinion, pose a safety hazard.
   2. move, touch or disturb insulation. 
   3. move, touch or disturb vapor retarders. 
   4. break or otherwise damage the surface finish or weather seal on or
      around access panels or covers. 
   5. identify the composition or R-value of insulation material. 
   6. activate thermostatically operated fans. 
   7. determine the types of materials used in insulation or wrapping of
      pipes, ducts, jackets, boilers or wiring.
   8. determine the adequacy of ventilation.

3.10. Doors, Windows and Interior

1. The inspector shall inspect:
   1. a representative number of doors and windows by opening and closing
      them;
   2. floors, walls and ceilings;
   3. stairs, steps, landings, stairways and ramps;
   4. railings, guards and handrails; and
   5. garage vehicle doors and the operation of garage vehicle door
      openers, using normal operating controls.
2. The inspector shall describe:
   1. a garage vehicle door as manually-operated or installed with a
      garage door opener.
3. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
   1. improper spacing between intermediate balusters, spindles and rails
      for steps, stairways, guards and railings;
   2. photo-electric safety sensors that did not operate properly; and
   3. any window that was obviously fogged or displayed other evidence of
      broken seals.
4. The inspector is not required to:
   1. inspect paint, wallpaper, window treatments or finish treatments.
   2. inspect floor coverings or carpeting.
   3. inspect central vacuum systems. 
   4. inspect for safety glazing. 
   5. inspect security systems or components. 
   6. evaluate the fastening of islands, countertops, cabinets, sink tops
      or fixtures. 
   7. move furniture, stored items, or any coverings, such as carpets or
      rugs, in order to inspect the concealed floor structure. 
   8. move suspended-ceiling tiles. 
   9. inspect or move any household appliances. 
   10. inspect or operate equipment housed in the garage, except as
       otherwise noted. 
   11. verify or certify the proper operation of any pressure-activated
       auto-reverse or related safety feature of a garage door. 
   12. operate or evaluate any security bar release and opening mechanisms,
       whether interior or exterior, including their compliance with local,
       state or federal standards. 
   13. operate any system, appliance or component that requires the use of
       special keys, codes, combinations or devices. 
   14. operate or evaluate self-cleaning oven cycles, tilt guards/latches,
       or signal lights. 
   15. inspect microwave ovens or test leakage from microwave ovens. 
   16. operate or examine any sauna, steam-generating equipment, kiln,
       toaster, ice maker, coffee maker, can opener, bread warmer, blender,
       instant hot-water dispenser, or other small, ancillary appliances or
       devices. 
   17. inspect elevators. 
   18. inspect remote controls. 
   19. inspect appliances. 
   20. inspect items not permanently installed.
   21. discover firewall compromises. 
   22. inspect pools, spas or fountains.
   23. determine the adequacy of whirlpool or spa jets, water force, or
       bubble effects. 
   24. determine the structural integrity or leakage of pools or spas.

4. Glossary of Terms

• accessible:  In the opinion of the inspector, can be approached
  or entered safely, without difficulty, fear or danger.
• activate:  To turn on, supply power, or enable systems,
  equipment or devices to become active by normal operating controls.
  Examples include turning on the gas or water supply valves to the
  fixtures and appliances, and activating electrical breakers or
  fuses.
• adversely affect:  To constitute, or potentially constitute, a
  negative or destructive impact.
• alarm system:  Warning devices, installed or freestanding,
  including, but not limited to: carbon monoxide detectors, flue gas
  and other spillage detectors, security equipment, ejector pumps, and
  smoke alarms.
• appliance:  A household device operated by the use of
  electricity or gas. Not included in this definition are components
  covered under central heating, central cooling or plumbing.
• architectural service:  Any practice involving the art and
  science of building design for construction of any structure or
  grouping of structures, and the use of space within and surrounding
  the structures or the design, design development, preparation of
  construction contract documents, and administration of the
  construction contract.
• component:  A permanently installed or attached fixture, element
  or part of a system.
• condition:  The visible and conspicuous state of being of an
  object.
• correction:  Something that is substituted or proposed for what
  is incorrect, deficient, unsafe, or a defect.
• cosmetic defect:  An irregularity or imperfection in something,
  which could be corrected, but is not required.
• crawlspace:  The area within the confines of the foundation and
  between the ground and the underside of the lowest floor’s
  structural component.
• decorative:  Ornamental; not required for the operation of
  essential systems or components of a home.
• describe:  To report in writing a system or component by its
  type or other observed characteristics in order to distinguish it
  from other components used for the same purpose.
• determine:  To arrive at an opinion or conclusion pursuant to
  examination.
• dismantle:  To open, take apart or remove any component, device
  or piece that would not typically be opened, taken apart or removed
  by an ordinary occupant.
• engineering service:  Any professional service or creative work
  requiring engineering education, training and experience, and the
  application of special knowledge of the mathematical, physical and
  engineering sciences to such professional service or creative work
  as consultation, investigation, evaluation, planning, design and
  supervision of construction for the purpose of assuring compliance
  with the specifications and design, in conjunction with structures,
  buildings, machines, equipment, works and/or processes.
• enter:  To go into an area to observe visible components.
• evaluate:  To assess the systems, structures and/or components
  of a property.
• evidence: That which tends to prove or disprove something;
  something that makes plain or clear; grounds for belief; proof.
• examine:  To visually look (see inspect).
• foundation:  The base upon which the structure or wall rests,
  usually masonry, concrete or stone, and generally partially
  underground.
• function:  The action for which an item, component or system is
  specially fitted or used, or for which an item, component or system
  exists; to be in action or perform a task.
• functional:  Performing, or able to perform, a function.
• functional defect:  A lack of or an abnormality in something
  that is necessary for normal and proper functioning and operation,
  and, therefore, requires further evaluation and correction.
• general home inspection:  See home inspection.
• home inspection:  The process by which an inspector visually
  examines the readily accessible systems and components of a home and
  operates those systems and components utilizing this Standards of
  Practice as a guideline.
• household appliances:  Kitchen and laundry appliances, room air
  conditioners, and similar appliances.
• identify:  To notice and report.
• indication:  That which serves to point out, show, or make known
  the present existence of something under certain conditions.
• inspect:  To examine readily accessible systems and components
  safely, using normal operating controls, and accessing readily
  accessible areas, in accordance with this Standards of Practice.
• inspected property:  The readily accessible areas of the home,
  house, or building, and the components and systems included in the
  inspection. 
• inspection report:  A written communication (possibly including
  images) of any material defects observed during the inspection.
• inspector:  One who performs a real estate inspection.
• installed:  Attached or connected such that the installed item
  requires a tool for removal.
• material defect: A specific issue with a system or component of
  a residential property that may have a significant, adverse impact
  on the value of the property, or that poses an unreasonable risk to
  people.  The fact that a system or component is near, at, or beyond
  the end of its normal, useful life is not, in itself, a material
  defect.
• normal operating controls:  Describes the method by which
  certain devices (such as thermostats) can be operated by ordinary
  occupants, as they require no specialized skill or knowledge.
• observe:  To visually notice.
• operate:  To cause systems to function or turn on with normal
  operating controls.
• readily accessible:  A system or component that, in the judgment
  of the inspector, is capable of being safely observed without the
  removal of obstacles, detachment or disengagement of connecting or
  securing devices, or other unsafe or difficult procedures to gain
  access.
• recreational facilities:  Spas, saunas, steam baths, swimming
  pools, tennis courts, playground equipment, and other exercise,
  entertainment and athletic facilities.
• report: To express, communicate or provide
  information in writing; give a written account of.  (See
  also inspection report.)
• representative number:  A number sufficient to serve as a
  typical or characteristic example of the item(s) inspected.
• residential property:  Four or fewer residential units.
• residential unit:  A home; a single unit providing complete and
  independent living facilities for one or more persons, including
  permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and
  sanitation.
• safety glazing:  Tempered glass, laminated glass, or rigid
  plastic.
• shut down:  Turned off, unplugged, inactive, not in service, not
  operational, etc.
• structural component:  A component that supports non-variable
  forces or weights (dead loads) and variable forces or weights (live
  loads).
• system:  An assembly of various components which function as a
  whole.
• technically exhaustive:  A comprehensive and detailed
  examination beyond the scope of a real estate home inspection that
  would involve or include, but would not be limited to:  dismantling,
  specialized knowledge or training, special equipment, measurements,
  calculations, testing, research, analysis, or other means.
• unsafe:  In the inspector’s opinion, a condition of an area,
  system, component or procedure that is judged to be a significant
  risk of injury during normal, day-to-day use. The risk may be due to
  damage, deterioration, improper installation, or a change in
  accepted residential construction standards.
• verify:  To confirm or substantiate.

These terms are found within the Standards of Practice. Visit InterNACHI’s full Glossary.

Source: This content is adapted from the Home Inspection Standards of Practice by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI).