What Does a Home Watch Inspection Include? A Complete Checklist

Not all home watch inspections are created equal. The quality of an inspection depends heavily on the thoroughness of the professional conducting it and the checklist they follow. Here's a comprehensive look at what a professional home watch inspection should include — and what to expect in the report that follows.

Exterior Inspection

A thorough exterior inspection covers the visible condition of the property from the outside, including:

Structure and Roof

• Visual inspection of the roof from the ground for missing or damaged shingles, lifted flashing, or obvious storm damage
• Checking gutters and downspouts for blockage, damage, or improper drainage
• Inspecting the exterior walls for cracks, water stains, or signs of foundation movement
• Checking the chimney and any skylights for damage or debris

Entry Points and Security

• Verifying all exterior doors are locked and secure
• Checking all windows are closed, locked, and undamaged
• Inspecting the garage door operation and manual release
• Looking for signs of attempted break-in or vandalism

Grounds and Outdoor Features

• Collecting mail, packages, and newspapers
• Checking the pool and pool equipment (water level, pump operation, chemical balance if applicable)
• Inspecting irrigation systems and outdoor faucets for leaks
• Walking the perimeter for obvious drainage issues or standing water
• Checking outdoor electrical outlets, lighting, and fixtures
• Verifying any storm shutters or hurricane protection is properly in place

Interior Inspection

Inside the home, a professional inspector works methodically through each area:

Plumbing

• Running water in every sink, tub, and shower to maintain drain seals (P-traps can dry out and allow sewer gas into the home)
• Flushing every toilet and checking for proper operation
• Checking under sinks and around all toilets for signs of leaks or moisture
• Inspecting the water heater for leaks, corrosion, or signs of failure
• Checking the main water shut-off valve for accessibility and function
• Looking under all appliances (dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine) for water

HVAC System

• Verifying the thermostat is set correctly and the system is operating
• Checking air filters and noting when they need replacement
• Listening for unusual sounds or checking for error codes on the system
• Verifying that vents are open and unobstructed throughout the home
• Checking the condensate drain pan on air handlers for water accumulation

Electrical

• Checking the main electrical panel for tripped breakers
• Verifying that timer-operated lights are functioning properly
• Testing smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries
• Looking for signs of electrical issues — burning smells, discoloration around outlets

Interior Condition

• Inspecting all ceilings for water stains, discoloration, or signs of active leakage
• Checking walls for moisture, mold, or structural cracking
• Looking for signs of pest or rodent activity — droppings, chewed materials, nesting
• Verifying all interior doors are properly closed (especially to prevent HVAC inefficiency)
• Checking window seals and any visible interior window condition

What Should the Inspection Report Include?

After every visit, a professional home watch company should provide a written report that includes:

• Date and time of the inspection
• Name of the inspector
• A completed checklist for every item inspected
• Notes on anything observed — including minor items that don't require immediate action
• Photographs documenting the condition of the property
• Any recommended follow-up actions or items to watch
• Contact information for the inspector in case you have questions

The Bottom Line

A professional home watch inspection is a thorough, systematic process — not a casual walk-through. When evaluating home watch companies, ask to see a sample inspection report. If it's a one-page form with checkboxes and no photographs, that's a warning sign. You want detailed, timestamped documentation that gives you a complete picture of your property's condition after every single visit.