Why Exterior Inspections Matter

The exterior protects the home from weather, directs water away from the structure, and provides safe access to the property. From siding and windows to grading and decks, every exterior component plays an important role in protecting your investment.

During the inspection, we evaluate accessible exterior components for visible defects, deterioration, moisture concerns, safety hazards, and conditions that may require repair or further evaluation.

What We Inspect

We evaluate accessible exterior components that help protect the home from weather, manage water, provide safe access, and support the building envelope.

Driveways & Walkways

Concrete, asphalt, pavers, and other walking surfaces for cracking, settlement, trip hazards, drainage concerns, and deterioration.

Foundation & Grading

Foundation walls, grading, drainage, retaining walls, and visible conditions that may allow water to collect near the home.

Siding & Exterior Trim

Siding materials, trim, soffit transitions, and other exterior finishes for deterioration, damage, and moisture intrusion.

Windows & Exterior Doors

Accessible windows and exterior doors for operation, weather protection, damage, glazing, and installation concerns.

Decks, Porches & Stairs

Structural components, guardrails, handrails, walking surfaces, and visible safety concerns.

Utilities & Exterior Systems

Service drop, gas meter, hose bibs, outdoor receptacles, and sump pump discharge where applicable.

Exterior Components We Evaluate

Our exterior inspection covers a broad range of visible components surrounding and protecting the home.

  • Driveway
  • Walkways
  • Foundation
  • Hose Bibs
  • Service Drop
  • Gas Meter & Piping
  • Outdoor Receptacles
  • Siding
  • Windows
  • Exterior Doors
  • Decks & Porches
  • Exterior Stairs
  • Grading & Drainage
  • Exterior Trim
  • Retaining Walls
  • Sump Pump Discharge

Common Exterior Issues We Look For

Moisture Intrusion

Improper flashing, damaged siding, failed sealants, or other conditions that may allow water to enter the home.

Poor Drainage

Negative grading, improper downspout discharge, or standing water near the foundation.

Deteriorated Materials

Rotting trim, damaged siding, loose components, cracked concrete, or deteriorated exterior finishes.

Safety Hazards

Loose handrails, damaged stairs, unsafe decks, trip hazards, or defective exterior electrical devices.

The Exterior Works Together

The exterior isn't just a collection of individual components—it's a complete system designed to keep water out, support the structure, and protect your home from the elements. Siding, windows, grading, decks, drainage, and utilities all work together to preserve the home's condition.

  • Siding protects exterior walls.
  • Windows & doors seal the building envelope.
  • Grading directs water away from the foundation.
  • Decks & stairs provide safe access.
  • Utilities safely deliver essential services.
  • Retaining walls help stabilize surrounding soil.
  • Drainage reduces moisture around the home.
  • Foundation supports the entire structure.

Exterior Maintenance Tips

Routine exterior maintenance can help manage moisture, protect building materials, and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.

  • Keep vegetation trimmed away from siding.
  • Maintain caulking around windows and doors.
  • Direct downspouts away from the foundation.
  • Repair damaged siding and trim promptly.
  • Inspect decks and stairs regularly for deterioration.
  • Keep exterior receptacle covers in good condition.
  • Maintain positive grading around the home.
  • Watch for new settlement or drainage issues after heavy storms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an exterior inspection include?

We inspect the home's readily accessible exterior components, including the siding, foundation, windows, exterior doors, decks, porches, walkways, grading, drainage, exterior electrical components, and other visible features that protect the home and provide safe access.

Do you inspect decks and porches?

Yes. We inspect accessible decks, porches, stairs, railings, and guardrails for visible structural concerns, damage, deterioration, and other readily observable safety issues.

Do you test outdoor electrical receptacles?

Yes. We test readily accessible exterior receptacles, including GFCI-protected outlets when present, and report any visible deficiencies or outlets that do not respond as expected.

Why is grading around the home important?

Proper grading helps direct water away from the foundation, reducing the risk of moisture intrusion, erosion, and foundation-related problems. We report visible grading and drainage concerns observed during the inspection.

Do you inspect exterior windows and doors?

Yes. We inspect accessible exterior windows and doors for basic operation, visible damage, weather sealing, and other readily observable conditions that may affect performance or moisture protection.

What exterior problems are commonly found during a home inspection?

Common findings include damaged siding, deteriorated trim, improper grading, cracked walkways, loose handrails, deck deficiencies, moisture intrusion, and other visible conditions that may require repair or maintenance.

Related Inspection Areas

Explore other areas of the home that connect closely with exterior weather protection, drainage, structure, and moisture management.