Based on Wisconsin SPS 131
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual evaluation of the readily accessible systems and components of a residential property. In Wisconsin, inspections are governed by Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 131, which defines required systems, reporting standards, and documentation structure.
The inspection includes structural components such as foundations, framing, roofing systems, exterior cladding, and visible grading conditions, as well as major mechanical systems including plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, and ventilation. A representative number of windows, doors, fixtures, receptacles, and visible structural components are operated or observed using normal operating controls. The goal is to identify material defects and safety concerns that are visible and accessible at the time of inspection.
The written report is structured, clear, and organized by system. It includes descriptions of components, identification of defects, and a summary page outlining significant findings. Safety concerns, moisture-related issues, structural movement indicators, and functional deficiencies are clearly separated from routine maintenance observations. This allows clients to prioritize next steps logically.
The inspection provides objective documentation to assist buyers, sellers, homeowners, and real estate professionals in making informed decisions regarding repair negotiations, maintenance planning, or further specialist evaluation.
Important Limitation:
A home inspection is not technically exhaustive and does not identify concealed or latent defects. It does not predict future conditions, determine remaining service life, estimate repair costs, verify code compliance, or guarantee performance. Conditions can change after the inspection due to weather, occupancy, or normal system operation.
Based on Wisconsin SPS 131
A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual evaluation of the readily accessible systems and components of a residential property. In Wisconsin, inspections are governed by Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 131, which defines required systems, reporting standards, and documentation structure.
The inspection includes structural components such as foundations, framing, roofing systems, exterior cladding, and visible grading conditions, as well as major mechanical systems including plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, and ventilation. A representative number of windows, doors, fixtures, receptacles, and visible structural components are operated or observed using normal operating controls. The goal is to identify material defects and safety concerns that are visible and accessible at the time of inspection.
The written report is structured, clear, and organized by system. It includes descriptions of components, identification of defects, and a summary page outlining significant findings. Safety concerns, moisture-related issues, structural movement indicators, and functional deficiencies are clearly separated from routine maintenance observations. This allows clients to prioritize next steps logically.
The inspection provides objective documentation to assist buyers, sellers, homeowners, and real estate professionals in making informed decisions regarding repair negotiations, maintenance planning, or further specialist evaluation.
Important Limitation:
A home inspection is not technically exhaustive and does not identify concealed or latent defects. It does not predict future conditions, determine remaining service life, estimate repair costs, verify code compliance, or guarantee performance. Conditions can change after the inspection due to weather, occupancy, or normal system operation.
