🛠️ What Does a Home Inspection Include? (And Why It’s Crucial Before You Buy in 2025)

When buying a home in Nashville, TN, or anywhere in Middle Tennessee, scheduling a home inspection is one of the smartest decisions you can make. A professional home inspection gives you a clear understanding of the property’s condition before you sign the papers.

But what exactly does a home inspection include? At Hill’s Top Home Inspections, we’re often asked this question—and this blog breaks it down so you know what to expect.

🔍 What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual assessment of a property's structure and systems. It helps identify deficiencies, safety issues, and potential maintenance concerns that may not be obvious during a casual walkthrough.

In 2025’s competitive real estate market, especially in the greater Nashville area, a home inspection provides buyers with critical information before making one of the biggest investments of their lives.

✅ What Does a Home Inspection Include?

Here’s what our certified home inspectors check during a standard inspection:

🏠 1. Roof

• Shingle condition (granule loss, curling, missing shingles)

• Flashing and penetrations

• Gutters and drainage

• Chimney structure

• Drone roof inspections (when inaccessible)

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🧱 2. Exterior

• Siding, brick, or stucco

• Windows and doors (sealant and operation)

• Fascia, soffits, trim

• Grading and drainage

• Decks, balconies, porches, and railings

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🧰 3. Structural Components

• Foundation cracks or settling

• Crawlspace or basement issues

• Attic framing and insulation

• Floor structure and ceiling joists

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⚡ 4. Electrical System

• Main panel and breakers

• Wiring and grounding

• GFCI and AFCI protection

• Outlets, switches, and fixtures

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

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💧 5. Plumbing System

• Water pressure and pipe condition

• Drainage and venting

• Water heater

• Functional flow at faucets and fixtures

• Leaks under sinks, in crawlspace, etc.

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❄️ 6. HVAC System

• Furnace and A/C operation

• Thermostat functionality

• Airflow and filter condition

• Thermal imaging used to detect hidden duct issues

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🛁 7. Interior

• Ceilings, walls, floors

• Doors and windows (operation, damage)

• Stairs, railings, and safety concerns

• Evidence of moisture intrusion or staining

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🧪 Add-On Services We Offer:

Hill’s Top Home Inspections also offers specialty services that can be added to your inspection:

• Mold Testing

• Radon Testing

• 11-Month Builder Warranty Inspections

• Pre-Drywall Inspections

• Short-Term Rental Property (STRP) Compliance Inspections

All services come with detailed digital reports, including high-resolution photos and easy-to-understand recommendations.

📍 Why It Matters in Nashville, TN and Middle Tennessee

Middle Tennessee homes face unique challenges—foundation settling, humidity-related mold growth, storm damage, and DIY renovations. With rising home prices in Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, and Murfreesboro, skipping a home inspection could cost you thousands later.

In 2025, more buyers are opting for pre-offer inspections or walk-and-talk consultations, but nothing replaces a full, licensed home inspection from a qualified professional.

🤝 Final Thoughts: Know Before You Buy

A home may look great during a showing, but only a comprehensive inspection reveals its true condition. Whether it’s a historic Nashville home or new construction in Mt. Juliet, our goal is to help you make an informed, confident purchase.

📞 Schedule Your Home Inspection Today

At Hill’s Top Home Inspections, we go beyond the basics. With thermal imaging, drones, gas leak detection, and a commitment to detail, we make sure nothing gets overlooked.

✅ Licensed & Insured

✅ Serving Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Murfreesboro & beyond

✅ Clear, detailed reports within 24 hours

👉 Book your inspection now at www.HillsTopLLC.com📞 Or call/text (615) 784-3828