1.1 The Standards of Practice (Standards) provide the minimum standards of performance for a written report on a residential home inspection performed by and for the exclusive use of members of the National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. (NAHI™). Use of the NAHI logo and name is limited to those persons holding the designation of Regular Member. Associate, NAHI CRI and Affiliate Members may use specifically designated logos in advertising.

1.2 The Standards define and clarify the purpose, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and certain terms relating to an inspection.
1.3 The Standards describe those items, components, and systems included in the scope of an inspection.
1.4 The Standards apply only to the inspection of buildings with one (1) to four (4) dwelling units.
1.5 The Standards apply to a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of the included items, components, and systems to determine if, at the time of the inspection, they are performing their intended function without regard to life expectancy.
1.6 The purpose of the inspection is to identify visible defects and/or conditions that, in the judgment of the inspector, adversely affect the function and/or integrity of the items, components, and systems.
1.7 Inspections performed under the Standards are basically visual and rely upon the opinion, judgment, and experience of the inspector, and are not intended to be technically exhaustive.
1.8 Inspections shall be performed in a time period sufficient to allow compliance with the provisions of the Standards.
1.9 Inspections performed under the Standards shall not be construed as a compliance inspection of any code, governmental regulation, or manufacturer’s installation instructions or procedures. In the event a law, statute, or ordinance prohibits a procedure recommended in the Standards, the inspector is relieved of the obligation to adhere to the prohibited part of the Standards.
1.10 Inspections performed under the Standards are not an expressed or implied warranty or a guarantee of the adequacy, performance, or useful life of any item, component, or system in, on, or about the inspected property.
1.11 Detached building(s) and detached garage(s) located on the property will be inspected under these Standards only if specifically listed in the inspection report.
1.12 The National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. recommends that its members perform inspections in accordance with these Standards, the Code of Ethics, and applicable law(s). The Standards are not intended to limit members from performing “additional inspection services.”
1.13 The inspector shall report on any system and component included in these standards of practice which were present at the time of the home inspection but were not inspected and provide the reason they were not inspected.

3.1.1 Building perimeter, land grade, and water drainage directly adjacent to the foundation.
3.1.2 Trees and vegetation that adversely affect the structure.
3.1.3 Walks, grade steps, driveways, patios, and retaining walls contiguous with the structure.

3.2.1 Describe the type of material and inspect the condition of the driveways, walkways, grade steps, patios, and other items contiguous with the inspected structure.
3.2.2 Observe the drainage, grading, and vegetation for conditions that adversely affect the structure.

3.3.1 Inspect fences or privacy walls.
3.3.2 Evaluate the condition of trees, shrubs, and or other vegetation.
3.3.3 Evaluate or determine soil or geological conditions, site engineering, or property boundaries.

4.1.1 Foundation walls, first-floor systems, other support and sub-structure components, stairs.
4.1.2 Ventilation (when applicable).
4.1.3 Grade slab and/or floor slab.

4.2.1 Describe the type of structure and material comprising the structure and other items inspected.
4.2.2 Observe the condition and serviceability of visible, exposed areas of foundation walls, grade slab, bearing walls, posts, piers, beams, joists, trusses, subfloors, chimney foundations, stairs, and other similar structural components.
4.2.3 Inspect foundations for indications of flooding, moisture, or water penetration.
4.2.4 Observe subfloor crawl space ventilation and vapor barriers.
4.2.5 Operate the sump pump when present.
4.2.6 Inspect the visible and accessible wooden members.
4.2.7 Observe the visible condition of floor slab when present.

4.3.1 Enter subfloor crawl spaces with headroom of less than 3 feet, obstructions, or other detrimental conditions.
4.3.2 Move stored items or debris or perform excavation togain access.
4.3.3 Enter areas which, in the inspector’s opinion, may contain conditions or materials hazardous to the health and safety of the inspector.
4.3.4 Operate sump pumps equipped with internal/water dependent switches.

5.2.1 Describe the type and material comprising the exterior components inspected.
5.2.2 Observe the condition of the components from the ground level.
5.2.3 Observe the condition of a representative number of visible windows and doors.
5.2.4 Inspect attached porches, decks, steps, balconies, handrails, and guardrails.

5.3.1 Inspect buildings, decks, patios, retaining walls, and other structures detached from the house.
5.3.2 Evaluate function of shutters, awnings, storm doors, storm windows and similar accessories.
5.3.3 Inspect or test the operation of security locks, devices, or systems.
5.3.4 Evaluate the presence, extent, and type of insulation and vapor barriers in the exterior walls.
5.3.5 Examine the interior of the chimney flues or determine the presence or absence of flue liners.
5.3.6 Inspect for safety type glass or the integrity of thermal window seals or damaged glass.

6.1.1 Roof covering material.
6.1.2 Rain gutter and downspout system.
6.1.3 Visible portions of roof flashings.
6.1.4 Roof ventilation.
6.1.5 Roof soffits and fascias.
6.1.6 Roof skylights and other roof accessories.

6.3.1 Walk on or access a roof where it could damage the roof or roofing material or be unsafe for the inspector.
6.3.2 Remove snow, ice, debris or other conditions that prohibit the observation of the roof surfaces.
6.3.3 Inspect internal gutter and downspout systems and related underground drainage piping.
6.3.4 Inspect antennas, lightning arresters, or similar attachments.
6.3.5 Operate powered roof ventilators.
6.3.6 Determine remaining life expectancy of roof coverings, presence or absence of hail damage; manufacturers’ defects, exceptions, installation methods or recalls; or number of layers.
6.3.7 Determine adequacy of roof ventilation.

7.1.1 Roof framing, sheathing and decking.
7.1.2 Attic insulation.

7.2.1 Describe the type of material comprising the roof structure in the visible attic area.
7.2.2 Observe the condition of the visible roof structure and attic components where readily and safely accessible.
7.2.3 Investigate evidence of the presence of water penetration.
7.2.4 Determine the presence of attic insulation and its approximate thickness.

7.3.1 Enter attic spaces with headroom of less than 5 feet, with insulation covering the ceiling joists, or bottom truss chord, or if there are obstructions, trusses, or other detrimental conditions.
7.3.2 Break or otherwise damage the surface finish or weather seal on or around access panels and covers.

8.1.1 Exterior and interior walls and ceilings, floors, windows, doors, roof, and foundation.
8.1.2 Electrical system and components.
8.1.3 Plumbing system and components.
8.1.4 Heating systems or units.

8.2.1 Describe the type and material of door(s), exterior walls, roof (if applicable), and other items to be inspected.
8.2.2 Observe the condition and function of listed components; electric, plumbing, heating and similar systems.
8.2.3 Inspect vehicle doors for type, general condition, and intended function by manual operation or by the use of permanently affixed opener(s).

8.3.1 Inspect or operate equipment housed in the garage area except as otherwise addressed in the Standards.
8.3.2 Verify or certify safe operation of any auto reverse or related safety function(s) of a vehicle door.

9.2.1 Describe the type and location of primary service (overhead or underground), voltage, amperage, and over-current protection devices (fuses or breakers).
9.2.2 Observe the existence of a connected grounding conductor when readily accessible.
9.2.3 Inspect the main and branch circuit conductors for proper over-current protection and condition by visual observation after removal of the readily accessible main and sub electric panel cover(s).
9.2.4 Report the presence of aluminum branch circuit wiring at the main and sub-panels.
9.2.5 Verify operation of a representative number of accessible switches, receptacles and light fixtures.
9.2.6 Verify grounding and polarity of a representative number of receptacles in proximity to plumbing fixtures or on the exterior.
9.2.7 Verify operation of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI), if present.
9.2.8 Observe the general condition of visible branch circuit conductors that may constitute a hazard to the occupant or the structure by reason of improper use or installation of electrical components.

9.3.1 Insert any tool, probe or testing device into the main or sub-panels.
9.3.2 Activate electrical systems or branch circuits which are not energized.
9.3.3 Operate overload protection devices.
9.3.4 Inspect ancillary systems, including but not limited to:
burglar alarms, home protection systems, low voltage relays, smoke/heat detectors, antennas, electrical de-icing tapes, lawn sprinkler wiring, swimming pool wiring, or any systems controlled by timers.
9.3.5 Move any objects, furniture, or appliances to gain access to any electrical component.
9.3.6 Test every switch, receptacle, and fixture.
9.3.7 Remove switch and outlet cover plates.
9.3.8 Inspect electrical equipment not readily accessible or dismantle any electrical device or control.
9.3.9 Verify continuity of connected service ground(s).

10.1.1 Visible water supply lines.
10.1.2 Visible waste/soil and vent lines.
10.1.3 Fixtures and faucets.
10.1.4 Domestic hot water system and fuel source.

10.2.1 Describe the material of the main line and water supply lines.
10.2.2 Verify the presence of a main water supply valve.
10.2.3 Describe the type of sanitary waste piping.
10.2.4 Describe the type and capacity of domestic water heating unit(s).
10.2.5 Inspect the condition of accessible and visible water and waste lines.
10.2.6 Inspect and operate fixtures and faucets.
10.2.7 Inspect and operate the domestic hot water system.
10.2.8 Inspect and operate drain pumps and waste ejector pumps when possible.
10.2.9 Test the water supply for functional flow.
10.2.10 Test waste lines from sinks, tubs and showers for functional drainage.

10.3.1 Operate any main, branch or fixture valve, except faucets, or determine water temperature.
10.3.2 Inspect any system that is shut-down or secured.
10.3.3 Inspect any plumbing components not readily accessible.
10.3.4 Inspect any exterior plumbing components or interior or exterior drain systems.
10.3.5 Inspect interior fire sprinkler systems.
10.3.6 Evaluate the potability of any water supply.

10.3.7 Inspect water conditioning equipment, including softener and filter systems.
10.3.8 Operate freestanding or built-in appliances.
10.3.9 Inspect private water supply systems.
10.3.10 Test shower pans, tub and shower surrounds, or enclosures for leakage.
10.3.11 Inspect gas supply system for materials, installation or leakage.
10.3.12 Evaluate the condition and operation of water wells and related pressure tanks and pumps; the quality or quantity of water from on-site water supplies; or the condition and operation of on-site sewage disposal systems such as cesspools, septic tanks, drain fields, related underground piping, conduit, cisterns, and equipment.
10.3.13 Inspect and operate fixtures and faucets if the flow end of the faucet is connected to an appliance.
10.3.14 Record location of any on-site visible fuel tanks within or directly adjacent to structure.

11.1.1 Fuel source.
11.1.2 Heating equipment.
11.1.3 Heating distribution.
11.1.4 Operating controls.
11.1.5 Flue pipes, chimneys and venting.
11.1.6 Auxiliary heating units.

11.2.1 Describe the type of fuel, heating equipment, and heating distribution system.
11.2.2 Operate the system using normal readily accessible control devices.
11.2.3 Open readily accessible access panels or covers provided by the manufacturer or installer, if readily detachable.
11.2.4 Observe the condition of normally operated controls and components of the systems.
11.2.5 Observe visible flue pipes, dampers and related components for functional operation.

11.2.6 Observe the condition of a representative number of heat sources in each habitable space of the house.
11.2.7 Inspect the operation of fixed supplementary heat units. See 2.6 for more information.

11.3.1 Activate or operate heating or other systems that do not respond to normal controls or have been shutdown.
11.3.2 To inspect or evaluate a heat exchanger.
11.3.3 Inspect equipment or remove covers or panels that are not readily accessible.
11.3.4 Dismantle any equipment, controls, or gauges.
11.3.5 Inspect the interior of chimney flues.
11.3.6 Inspect heating system accessories, such as humidifiers, air purifiers, motorized dampers, heat reclaimers, etc.
11.3.7 Inspect solar heating systems.
11.3.8 Activate heating, heat pump systems, or other systems
when ambient temperatures or other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the equipment.
11.3.9 Evaluate the type of material contained in insulation and/or wrapping of pipes, ducts, jackets and boilers.
11.3.10 Operate digital-type thermostats or controls.
11.3.11 Evaluate the capacity, adequacy, or efficiency of a heating or cooling system.
11.3.12 Test or operate gas logs, built-in gas burning appliances, grills, stoves, space heaters, or solar heating devices.
11.3.13 Determine clearance to combustibles or adequacy of combustion air.

12.1.1 Cooling equipment.
12.1.2 Cooling distribution.
12.1.3 Operating controls.

12.2.1 Describe the type of central air conditioning systemand energy sources.
12.2.2 Operate the system using normal control devices.
12.2.3 Open readily accessible access panels or coversprovided by the manufacturer or installer, if readily accessible.
12.2.4 Observe the condition of controls and operative components of the complete system, conditions permitting.
12.2.5 Observe the condition of a representative number of the central air cooling outlets in each habitable space of the house.

12.3.1 Activate or operate cooling or other systems that have been shut-down.
12.3.2 Inspect gas-fired refrigeration systems, evaporative coolers, or wall or window-mounted air conditioning units.
12.3.3 Check the pressure of the system coolant or determine the presence of leakage.
12.3.4 Evaluate the capacity, efficiency, or adequacy of the system.
12.3.5 Operate equipment or systems if exterior temperature is below 60° Fahrenheit or when other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the equipment.
12.3.6 Remove covers or panels that are not readily accessible.
12.3.7 Dismantle any equipment, controls, or gauges.
12.3.8 Check the electrical current drawn by the unit.
12.3.9 Operate digital-type thermostats or controls.

13.2.1 Observe the visible condition of the surfaces of walls, ceilings, and floors relative to structural integrity and evidence of water penetration.
13.2.2 Verify the presence of steps, stairways, balconies, handrails and guardrails and observe their condition.
13.2.3 Describe type, material, condition and operation of a representative number of windows, doors and their hardware.
13.2.4 Inspect the exterior condition of the kitchen cabinets and countertops.
13.2.5 Observe the condition of fireplaces, dampers, fire boxes and hearths readily visible.
13.2.6 Locate and observe a representative number of electrical outlets/fixtures and wiring in each room as described in Section 9.
13.2.7 Comment on presence or absence of smoke detectors.
13.2.8 Observe condition and operation of plumbing fixtures and components in each room as described in Section 10.

13.3.1 Ignite fires in a fireplace or stove to determine the adequacy of draft, perform a chimney smoke test, or inspect any solid fuel device in use.
13.3.2 Evaluate the installation or adequacy of inserts, wood burning stoves, or other modifications in a fireplace, stove, or chimney.
13.3.3 Determine clearance to combustibles in concealed areas.
13.3.4 Determine cosmetic condition of ceilings, walls, floor coverings, and components.
13.3.5 Determine if the bath and/or kitchen vent fan ducting exhausts air to exterior of house.