The first thing a home inspector looks for is the overall condition of the property’s exterior—especially the roof, structure, and grading around the foundation. These big-picture elements set the tone for the rest of the inspection because they can reveal potential water issues, structural concerns, or safety hazards.

From there, the inspector usually checks:

• Roofing and drainage – Are shingles intact? Is water being directed away from the home?

• Foundation and grading – Any cracks, settlement, or poor slope that could lead to water intrusion?

• Exterior systems – Siding, gutters, decks, porches, and safety features.

Why Start Outside?

If the outside isn’t performing as it should, it often leads to problems inside—like moisture intrusion, mold, or foundation shifts. By starting with the “big ticket” items, inspectors can better understand the story the home is telling before diving into plumbing, electrical, and interior details.

Our Approach

At Catalyst Inspections, we combine this big-picture evaluation with advanced tools, including thermal imaging at no additional cost, to catch hidden issues like insulation gaps or moisture problems early on. From the roofline to the basement, we treat every home as if it were our own.