What to Expect During a Long Island Home Inspection: Checklist for Buyers

A Long Island home inspection is a systematic review of the home’s condition. Its purpose is to “educate you and help you make an informed decision” about the. Typically lasting 2–3 hours, the inspector will examine all major systems. On inspection day, utilities should be on and working; attend if you can, especially the end, to ask questions. According to home inspection experts, you’ll usually meet the inspector before or during the final walk-through, and they will summarize issues.

Key areas covered (checklist): Inspectors use both visual checks and tools. Expect them to examine (and you should watch or ask about):

• Exterior & structure: Roof (shingles, flashings, gutters) siding, grading and drainage. Basement or crawlspace for foundation cracks or moisture.
  

• Roof & attic: Roof covering and structure, attic insulation level and ventilation
  

• Plumbing: All faucets, drains, water heater, sump pump, and visible pipes Check for leaks or water damage signs (musty smell, stains).
  

• Electrical: Service panel, breakers, outlet grounding, and smoke/CO detectors. Ensure all safety switches (GFCIs) work.
  

• HVAC: Furnace/boiler and central air (if any). The inspector will test them as they may not run an older system if it’s snowy (water risk).
  

• Interior: Doors, windows (open/close and lock), floors, walls, ceilings, and built-ins (fireplace, stairs). They’ll also note things like HVAC filters, venting and insulation gaps.
  

• Major appliances: Usually, you’ll be asked to turn on the range, dishwasher, garbage disposal, etc., to see if they work
  

After the walk-through, the inspector gives a verbal summary of major findings on-site. A detailed report (often with photos) usually follows within 24–48 hours. Use this report as your checklist: it highlights defects or recommended repairs. Buyers should expect to receive a digital report (often with a clear scoring or narrative) that they can share with contractors or their realtor.

Tips for buyers: Bring a flashlight and a pad of questions. Focus on understanding any serious issues found. Remember, this is not a time to negotiate new issues (that’s for pre-offer or post-inspection), but to confirm conditions haven’t changed. By preparing (having utilities on, being present) and reviewing key systems during the inspection, Long Island buyers can feel confident the final report reflects the house’s true condition