Definition of Terms

The following definitions are general guidelines to use when writing up your home inspection report or filling out your on-site checklist at the subject property. When you describe the condition of a particular item at the subject property you want to make sure you use the same criteria in your definitions for all items so your inspection report is consistent. Using the following guidelines will simplify the process for you.

• GOOD  =  The condition and/or appearance of the subject item is above the condition normally expected for a similar item. There are no significant repairs and upgradings needed at the present time in the visible and accessible areas. The age, apparent quality of manufacture, exposure to the elements, reported maintenance history, etc., are all taken into account in evaluating the subject item.
• AVERAGE  =  The condition and/or appearance of the subject item is equal to the condition normally expected for a similar item. There are no significant repairs and upgradings needed at the present time in the visible and accessible areas. Normal maintenance is expected for the subject item. The age, apparent quality of manufacture, exposure to the elements, reported maintenance history, etc., are all taken into account in evaluating the subject item.
• FAIR  =  The condition and/or appearance of the subject item is below the condition normally expected for a similar item. There are some significant repairs and upgradings needed at the present time in the visible and accessible areas. Above normal maintenance is expected for the subject item. The age, apparent quality of manufacture, exposure to the elements, reported maintenance history, etc., are all taken into account in evaluating the subject item.
• POOR  =  The condition and/or appearance of the subject item is far below the condition normally expected for a similar item. There are significant repairs and upgradings needed at the present time in the visible and accessible areas. Far above normal maintenance is expected for the subject item. The age, apparent quality of manufacture, exposure to the elements, reported maintenance history, etc., are all taken into account in evaluating the subject item.

NOTE:  There will be abbreviations next to some of the applicable blank lines on the checklist pages to assist you in filling out the home inspection checklist at the subject property. The abbreviations are:

• (G/A/F/P) = Good/Average/Fair/Poor
• (y/n) = Yes/No/Not.  You can put a check mark for a "yes" answer. Some items can have more descriptive answers like "slight", "some", "average", "a lot" "abnormal", "extensive", "excessive", etc.
• (#) = Enter the applicable number or amount for this item.

The following scanned images are examples of how you might fill out the Real Estate Home Inspection Checklist From A to Z pages when you use them for an actual home inspection.