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Inspector reviewing a Hutchinson, MN home during an inspection
⬥ Learning Center · The Process

What actually happens during a home inspection?

A home inspection is a top-to-bottom, hands-on evaluation of a home's condition. Here's exactly what an inspector does from arrival to report — so nothing on inspection day is a surprise.

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The Short Answer

A non-invasive, visual evaluation of the whole home.

A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive examination of a home's readily accessible systems and components — roof, structure, exterior, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, insulation, and interior. The inspector documents the current condition, flags safety concerns and defects, and explains what matters most. Following the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, our 120-point inspection covers every major system.

It typically runs two to three hours for an average Hutchinson home, and you receive a photo-rich, prioritized report — usually within 24 hours.

Outside First

Roof, exterior, and grounds.

The inspection usually starts outside. We evaluate the roof covering, flashing, and chimney; gutters and downspouts; siding, trim, and windows; the foundation from the exterior; and grading and drainage around the home. In Hutchinson we pay special attention to ice-dam history at the eaves and to grading that slopes toward the foundation — two of the most common Minnesota problems.

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Asphalt shingle roof and chimney inspected on a Hutchinson home
Inside the Home

Systems, room by room.

Once inside, the inspector works methodically through each major system.

Electrical

We open the panel, check for proper grounding, double-tapped breakers, and test a sample of outlets and GFCI protection.

Heating & cooling

Furnace, AC, and ductwork are operated and inspected for age, safety, and obvious defects — critical before a Minnesota winter.

Plumbing

Water supply, drains, the water heater, and visible piping are checked for leaks, corrosion, and outdated materials.

Basement & structure

We look for foundation cracks, moisture intrusion, sump-pump function, and signs of past water in the basement.

Attic

Insulation depth, ventilation, and signs of leaks or attic mold are documented from the attic access.

Interior

Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, stairs, and a sample of built-in appliances are checked for function and safety.

After the Walk-Through

The report and your questions.

We include a walk-through at the end so you can see the most important findings in person and ask questions. Then you get a written report — with photos, severity notes, and plain-English explanations — typically within 24 hours. Learning how to read that report helps you focus on what actually matters.

FAQ

Common questions, answered.

How long does a home inspection take?
Most single-family homes in Hutchinson take two to three hours, depending on size, age, and condition. Larger or older homes with more to document take longer. We never rush — the time it takes is the time it takes to do it right.
Do I need to be there?
You're welcome and encouraged to attend, especially for the walk-through at the end. It's the best time to ask questions and see findings in person. If you can't make it, we cover everything in the report and by phone.
What does a home inspection cover?
Our 120-point inspection covers the roof, exterior, structure and foundation, basement, attic, insulation and ventilation, electrical, heating and cooling, plumbing, and the interior, along with a sample of built-in appliances.
What is NOT included in a standard inspection?
A standard inspection is visual and non-invasive, so it doesn't include opening walls, mold lab analysis, radon testing, or a sewer-line camera unless you add them. We offer radon testing, mold testing, and sewer scopes as add-ons.
When will I get the report?
We deliver a photo-rich, prioritized report — usually within 24 hours of the inspection — so you have it in time to make decisions during your contingency period.

Keep learning

Now that you know how an inspection works, see what to do with the results and how the specialty services fit in. Browse the full Learning Center, explore our defect library, or see the complete 120-point home inspection. We serve Hutchinson and all of McLeod County.

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