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National Association of Home Inspectors
Standards of Practice
 Table of Contents
1. Purpose, Scope and General Statements
1.1 The Standards of Practice (Standards) provide the minimum standards of
performance for a written report on a residential home inspection performed by
a member of the National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. (NAHI).
1.2 The Standards define and clarify the purpose, conditions, limitations,
exclusions, and certain terms relating to an inspection.
1.3 The Standards identify those items, components, and systems included in the
scope of an inspection.
1.4 The Standards apply only to the inspection of buildings with one (1) to four
(4) dwelling units.
1.5 The Standards apply to a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of
the included items, components, and systems to determine if, at the time of
the inspection, they are performing their intended function without regard to
life expectancy.
1.6 The purpose of the inspection is to identify visible defects and/or conditions
that, in the judgement of the Inspector, adversely affect the function and/or
integrity of the items, components, and systems inspected with the health and
safety of the dwelling occupant(s) in mind.
1.7 Inspections performed under the Standards are basically visual and rely upon
the opinion, judgement, and experience of the Inspector, and are not intended
to be technically exhaustive.
1.8 Inspections shall be performed in a time period sufficient to allow compliance
with the provisions of the Standards.
1.9 Inspections performed under the Standards shall not be construed as a
compliance inspection of any code or governmental regulation. In the event a
law, statute, or ordinance prohibits a procedure recommended in the Standards,
the Inspector is relieved of the obligation to adhere to the prohibited part
of the Standards.
1.10 Inspections performed under the Standards are not an expressed or implied
warranty or a guarantee of the adequacy, performance, or useful life of any
item, component, or system in, on, or about the inspected property.
1.11 Detached building(s) and detached garage(s) located on the property will be
inspected under these Standards only if specifically listed in the inspection
report.
1.12 The National Association of Home Inspectors recommends that its members
perform inspections in accordance with these Standards, the Code of Ethics,
and applicable law(s). The Standards are not intended to limit members from
performing additional inspection services.
2. General Limitations and Exclusions
2.1 Inspections performed under the Standards exclude any item(s) concealed or not
readily accessible to the Inspector. The Inspector is not required to move
furniture, personal, or stored items; lift floor coverings; move attached
wall, ceiling coverings, or panels; or perform any test(s) or procedures(s)
which could damage or destroy the item(s) being evaluated.
2.2 The following are excluded and not limited to: appliances, recreational
facilities, alarms, intercoms, speaker systems, radio controlled devices,
security devices and lawn irrigation systems.
2.3 The determination of the presence of or damage caused by termites or any other
wood-damaging insects or organism is excluded.
2.4 The Inspector is not responsible for the determination of air quality,
presence of airborne substances and conditions, or odors that may be harmful
or unpleasant to certain individuals or animals.
2.5 Use of special instruments or testing devices, such as amp meters, pressure
gauges, moisture meters, gas detectors and similar equipment is not required.
2.6 The inspection is not required to include information from any source
concerning previous property, geological, environmental or hazardous waste
conditions, or manufacturer recalls or information contained in Consumer
Protection Bulletin. The inspection is not required to include information
from any source concerning past or present violations of codes, ordinances, or
regulations.
2.7 The inspection and report are opinions only, based upon visual observation of
existing conditions of the inspected property at the time of the inspection.
THE REPORT IS NOT INTENDED TO BE, OR TO BE CONSTRUED AS, A GUARANTEE,
WARRANTY, OR ANY FORM OF INSURANCE. The Inspector will not be responsible
for any repairs or replacements with regard to the property or the contents
thereof.
2.8 The Inspector is not required to determine property boundary lines or
encroachments.
2.9 The inspector is not required to provide an inspection of any condominium
common component, system or evaluate condominium reserve accounts.
3. Site
3.1 Components for Inspection
3.1.1 Building perimeter, land grade, and water drainage directly adjacent to the
foundation.
3.1.2 Trees and vegetation that adversely affect the structure.
3.1.3 Walks, grade steps, driveways, patios, and retaining walls contiguous with the
structure.
3.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
3.2.1 Describe material and inspect the condition of the driveways, walkways, grade
steps, patios, and other items contiguous with the inspected structure.
3.2.2 Observe the drainage, grading, and vegetation for conditions that adversely
affect the structure.
3.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
3.3.1 Inspect fences or privacy walls.
3.3.2 Evaluate the condition of trees, shrubs, and or other vegetation.
3.3.3 Evaluate or determine soil or geological conditions, site engineering, or
property boundaries.
4. Foundations
4.1 Components for Inspection
4.1.1 Foundation walls, first-floor systems, other support and sub-structure
components, stairs.
4.1.2 Ventilation (when applicable).
4.1.3 Grade slab and/or floor slab.
4.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
4.2.1 Identify the type of structure and material comprising the structure and other
items inspected.
4.2.2 Observe the condition and serviceability of visible, exposed areas of
foundation walls, grade slab, bearing walls, posts, piers, beams, joists,
trusses, subfloors, chimney foundations, stairs, and other similar structural
components.
4.2.3 Inspect foundations for indications of flooding, moisture, or water
penetration.
4.2.4 Observe subfloor crawl space ventilation and vapor barriers.
4.2.5 Operate the sump pump when present.
4.2.6 Inspect the visible and accessible wooden members.
4.2.7 Observe the visible condition of floor slab when present.
4.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
4.3.1 Enter subfloor crawl spaces with headroom of less than 3 feet, obstructions, or other
detrimental conditions.
4.3.2 Move stored items or debris or perform excavation to gain access.
4.3.3 Enter areas which may contain material hazardous to the health and safety of the Inspector.
4.3.4 Operate sump pumps equipped with internal/water dependent switches.
5. Exterior
5.1 Components for Inspection
5.1.1 Visible structural components.
5.1.2 Wall covering, trim, and protective coating.
5.1.3 Windows and doors.
5.1.4 Attached porches, decks, steps, balconies, handrails, guardrails, and carports.
5.1.5 Visible exterior portions of chimneys.
5.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
5.2.1 Identify the type and material comprising the exterior components inspected.
5.2.2 Observe the condition of the components from the ground level.
5.2.3 Observe the condition of a representative number of visible windows and doors.
5.2.4 Inspect attached porches, decks, steps, balconies, handrails, guardrails and carports.
5.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
5.3.1 Inspect buildings, decks, patios, and other structures detached from the house.
5.3.2 Evaluate function of shutters, awnings, storm doors, storm windows and similar accessories.
5.3.3 Inspect or test the operation of security locks, devices, or systems.
5.3.4 Evaluate the presence, extent, and type of insulation and vapor barriers in the exterior
walls.
5.3.5 Examine the interior of the chimney flues or determine the presence or absence of flu
liners.
5.3.6 Inspect for safety type glass or the integrity of thermal window seals or damaged glass.
6. Roof Coverings, Flashings, Gutters, and Downspouts
6.1 Components for Inspection
6.1.1 Roof covering material.
6.1.2 Rain gutter and downspout system.
6.1.3 Visible portions of roof flashings.
6.1.4 Roof ventilation.
6.1.5 Roof soffits and fascias.
6.1.6 Roof skylights and other roof accessories.
6.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
6.2.1 Describe type of roofing and gutters.
6.2.2 Observe the condition of visible roof material, rain gutter and downspout systems, visible
portions of roof flashings, roof soffits and fascias, roof vents, skylights and
other roof accessories visible from the exterior.
6.2.3 If possible, inspect the roof surface and components from arms-length distance or with
binoculars from the ground.
6.2.4 Inspect flat roofs where internal accessibility is readily and safely available.
6.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
6.3.1 Walk on or access a roof where it could damage the roof or roofing material or be unsafe for the
Inspector.
6.3.2 Remove snow, ice, debris or other conditions that prohibit the observation of the roof surfaces.
6.3.3 Inspect internal gutter and downspout systems and related underground drainage piping.
6.3.4 Inspect antennas, lightning arresters, or similar attachments.
7. Roof Structure, Attic and Insulation
7.1 Components for Inspection
7.1.1 Roof framing, sheathing and decking.
7.1.2 Attic insulation and ventilation.
7.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
7.2.1 Describe material comprising the roof structure in the visible attic area.
7.2.2 Observe the condition of the visible roof structure and attic components where readily and
safely accessible.
7.2.3 Investigate evidence of the presence of water penetration.
7.2.4 Determine the presence of attic insulation and its approximate thickness.
7.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
7.3.1 Enter attic spaces not readily accessible, if headroom is less than 3 feet, or if inspection could
damage ceilings or insulation.
7.3.2 Break or otherwise damage the surface finish or weather seal on or around access panels and covers.
7.3.3 Operate powered roof ventilators.
8. Attached Garage(s) and Carport(s)
8.1 Components for Inspection
8.1.1 Exterior and interior walls and ceilings, floors, windows, doors, roof, and foundation.
8.1.2 Electrical system and components.
8.1.3 Plumbing system and components.
8.1.4 Heating systems or units.
8.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
8.2.1 Identify type and material of door(s), exterior walls, roof (if applicable), and other items to be
inspected.
8.2.2 Observe the condition and function of listed components; electric, plumbing, heating and
similar systems.
8.2.3 Check the condition and operation of accessible garage door(s).
8.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not
required to:
8.3.1 Inspect or operate
equipment housed in the garage area except as otherwise addressed in the
Standards.
8.3.2 Operate the auto
reverse function of a vehicle door if the condition or type indicates possible
damage could occur from such operation.
9. Electrical
9.1 Components for Inspection
9.1.1 Entrance of the primary service from masthead to main panel.
9.1.2 Main and sub-panels including feeders.
9.1.3 Branch circuits, connected devices, and lighting fixtures.
9.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
9.2.1 Identify type and location of primary service (overhead or underground), voltage, amperage, and
over-current protection devices (fuses or breakers).
9.2.2 Observe the existence of a connected grounding conductor when readily accessible.
9.2.3 Inspect the main and branch circuit conductors for proper over current protection and condition
by visual observation after removal of the readily accessible main and sub electric panel cover(s).
9.2.4 Determine presence of aluminum branch circuit wiring at the main and sub-panels.
9.2.5 Test and/or verify operation of a representative number of accessible switches, receptacles and
light fixtures.
9.2.6 Test and/or verify grounding and polarity of a representative number of receptacles in proximity to
plumbing fixtures or on the exterior.
9.2.7 Verify operation of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI), if present.
9.2.8 Observe the general condition of visible branch circuit conductors that may constitute a
hazard to the occupant or the structure by reason of improper use or installation of electrical components.
9.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
9.3.1 Insert any tool, probe or testing device into the main or sub-panels.
9.3.2 Activate electrical systems or branch circuits which are not energized.
9.3.3 Operate overload protection devices.
9.3.4 Inspect ancillary systems, including but not limited to: burglar alarms, home protection systems,
low voltage relays, smoke/heat detectors, antennas, electrical de-icing tapes, sprinkler wiring, swimming pool wiring, or any systems controlled by timers.
9.3.5 Move any objects, furniture, or appliances to gain access to any electrical component.
9.3.6 Test every switch, receptacle, and fixture.
9.3.7 Remove switch and outlet cover plates.
9.3.8 Inspect electrical equipment not readily accessible or dismantle any electrical device or control.
9.3.9 Verify continuity of connected service grounds.
10. Plumbing
10.1 Components for Inspection
10.1.1 Visible water supply lines.
10.1.2 Visible waste/soil and vent lines.
10.1.3 Fixtures and faucets.
10.1.4 Domestic hot water system and fuel source.
10.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
10.2.1 Identify material of the main line and water supply lines.
10.2.2 Verify the presence of a main water supply valve.
10.2.3 Identify type of sanitary waste piping.
10.2.4 Identify type and capacity of domestic water heating unit(s).
10.2.5 Inspect the condition of accessible and visible water and waste lines.>
10.2.6 Inspect and operate fixtures and faucets.
10.2.7 Inspect and operate the domestic hot water system.
10.2.8 Inspect and operate drain pumps and waste ejector pumps when possible.
10.2.9 Test the water supply for functional flow.
10.2.10 Test waste lines from sinks, tubs and showers for functional drainage.
10.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
10.3.1 Operate any main, branch or fixture valve, except faucets, or determine water temperature.
10.3.2 Inspect any system that is shut-down or secured.
10.3.3 Inspect any plumbing components not readily accessible.
10.3.4 Inspect any exterior plumbing components or interior or exterior drain systems.
10.3.5 Inspect interior fire sprinkler systems.
10.3.6 Evaluate the potability of any water supply.
10.3.7 Inspect water conditioning equipment, including softener and filter systems.
10.3.8 Operate freestanding or built-in appliances.
10.3.9 Inspect private water supply systems.
10.3.10 Test shower pans, tub and shower surrounds, or enclosures for leakage.
10.3.11 Inspect gas supply system for materials, installation or leakage.
10.3.12 Evaluate the condition and operation of water wells and related pressure tanks and pumps;
the quality or quantity of water from on-site water supplies; or the condition
and operation of on-site sewage disposal systems such as cesspools, septic
tanks, drain fields, related underground piping, conduit, cisterns, and
equipment.
10.3.13 Inspect and operate fixtures and faucets if the flow end of the faucet is connected to an appliance.
10.3.14 Record location of any on-site visible fuel tanks within or directly adjacent to structure.
11. Central Heating
11.1 Components for Inspection
11.1.1 Fuel source.
11.1.2 Heating equipment.
11.1.3 Heating distribution.
11.1.4 Operating controls.
11.1.5 Flue pipes, chimneys and venting.
11.1.6 Auxiliary heating units.
11.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
11.2.1 Identify the type of fuel, heating equipment, and heating distribution system.
11.2.2 Operate the system using normal control devices to determine function.
11.2.3 Open access panels or covers provided by the manufacturer or installer, if readily
detachable.
11.2.4 Observe the condition of normally operated controls and components of the systems.
11.2.5 Observe visible flue pipes, dampers and related components for safe operation.
11.2.6 Observe the condition of a representative number of heat sources in each area of the
house.
11.2.7 Inspect the installation and operation of fixed supplementary heat units.
11.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
11.3.1 Activate or operate heating or other systems that have been shut-down.
11.3.2 Activate or operate heating systems that do not respond to normal controls.
11.3.3 Inspect equipment or remove covers or panels that are not readily accessible.
11.3.4 Dismantle any equipment, controls, or gauges.
11.3.5 Inspect the interior of chimney flues.
11.3.6 Inspect heating system accessories, such as humidifiers, air purifiers, motorized
dampers, heat reclaimers, etc.
11.3.7 Inspect solar heating systems.
11.3.8 Activate heating, heat pump systems, or other systems when ambient temperatures
or other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the
equipment.
11.3.9 Evaluate the type of material contained in insulation and/or wrapping of pipes,
ducts, jackets and boilers.
11.3.10 Operate digital-type thermostats or controls.
11.3.11 Evaluate the capacity, adequacy, or efficiency of a heating or cooling system.
11.3.12 Test or operate fireplaces, gas logs, built-in gas burning appliances, grills, stoves,
space heaters, or solar heating devices.
11.3.13 Determine clearance to combustibles.
12.
Central Air Conditioning
12.1 Components for Inspection
12.1.1 Cooling equipment.
12.1.2 Cooling distribution.
12.1.3 Operating controls.
12.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
12.2.1 Identify the type of central air conditioning system and energy sources.
12.2.2 Operate the system using normal control devices.
12.2.3 Open access panels or covers provided by the manufacturer or installer, if readily
accessible.
12.2.4 Observe the condition of controls and operative components of the complete system,
conditions permitting.
12.2.5 Observe the condition of a representative number of the central air cooling outlets in
each habitable area of the house.
12.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
12.3.1 Activate or operate cooling or other systems that have been shut down.
12.3.2 Inspect gas-fired refrigeration systems, evaporative coolers, or wall or window-mounted
air conditioning units.
12.3.3 Check the pressure of the system coolant or determine the presence of leakage.
12.3.4 Evaluate the capacity, efficiency, or adequacy of the system.
12.3.5 Operate equipment or systems if exterior temperature is below 60° Fahrenheit or when
other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the equipment.
12.3.6 Remove covers or panels that are not readily accessible.
12.3.7 Dismantle any equipment, controls, or gauges.
12.3.8 Check the electrical current drawn by the unit.
12.3.9 Operate digital-type thermostats or controls.
13. Interior
13.1 Components for Inspection
13.1.1 Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors.
13.1.2 Steps, stairways, balconies, railings.
13.1.3 Fireplaces.
13.1.4 Electric outlets and fixtures.
13.1.5 Plumbing fixtures and components.
13.1.6 Heating and cooling distribution.
13.2 Procedures for Inspection
The Inspector will:
13.2.1 Observe the visible condition of the surfaces of walls, ceilings, and floors relative to
structural integrity and evidence of water penetration.
13.2.2 Verify the presence of steps, stairways, balconies, handrails and guardrails and
observe their condition.
13.2.3 Describe type, material, condition and operation of a representative number of
windows, doors and their hardware.
13.2.4 Inspect the exterior condition of the kitchen cabinets and countertops.
13.2.5 Observe the condition of fireplaces, dampers, fire boxes and hearths readily visible.
13.2.6 Locate and observe a representative number of electrical outlets/fixtures and wiring in
each room as described in Section 9.
13.2.7 Comment on presence or absence of smoke detectors.
13.2.8 Observe condition and operation of plumbing fixtures and components in each room as
described in Section 10.
13.2.9 Observe a representative number of heat and/or air conditioning sources and returns, if
applicable, in each room as described in Sections 11&12.
13.3 Limitations
The Inspector is not required to:
13.3.1 Ignite fires in a fireplace or stove to determine the adequacy of draft, perform a
chimney smoke test, or inspect any solid fuel device in use.
13.3.2 Evaluate the installation or adequacy of inserts, wood burning stoves, or other
modifications in a fireplace, stove, or chimney.
13.3.3 Determine clearance to combustibles in concealed areas.
13.3.4 Determine cosmetic condition of ceilings, walls, floor coverings, and components.
Glossary of Terms
Activate: To turn on, supply power, or enable systems,
equipment, or devices to become active by normal control means. Examples include
turning on the gas or water supply valves to the fixtures and appliances and
activating electrical breakers or fuses.
Additional Inspection Services: Those services offered in
addition to the home inspection as defined in these standards, including but not
limited to the following examples; wood destroying insect-organism and
environmental testing.
Adversely Affect: Constitute, or potentially
constitute, a negative or destructive impact.
Appliance: A household device operated by use of
electricity or gas. Not included in this definition are components cover under
central heating, central cooling, or plumbing.
Evaluate: To ascertain, judge, or form an opinion about
an item or condition.
Foundation: The base upon which the structure or a wall
rests; usually masonry, concrete, or stone, and generally partially underground.
Function: The action for which an item, component or
system is specially fitted or used or for which an item, component or system
exists; to be in action or perform a task.
Functional: Performing, or able to perform, a function.
Functional drainage: A drain is functional when it
empties in a reasonable amount of time and is not subject to overflow when one
of its supply faucets is left on.
Functional Flow: Sufficient water flow to provide
uninterrupted supply to the highest, unrestricted tap (faucet furthest from the
source) when a single intermediate, unrestricted tap is operated simultaneously
with uninterrupted flow.
Habitable: In a condition suitable for human habitation.
Habitable Spaces: Rooms or spaces used for sitting,
sleeping, bathing, toilets, eating or cooking. Notconsidered habitable spaces
by these Standards are closets, halls, storage spaces and utility areas.
Heat Source: A heat source may be a radiator, convector
unit, radiant panel, heat pipe, ductwork, grille, register, or other device(s)
from which heat is intended to be emitted.
Inspected Property: The readily accessible areas of the
buildings, site, items, components, and systems included in the inspection.
Intended Function: Performing or able to perform the
usual function for which an item is designed, or fitted; and be in a condition
(state of repair) appropriate to this function, its age and location. [See
Function]
Observe: To see through visual directed attention.
Operate: To cause equipment or systems that have been
activated to perform their intended function(s), such as turning on a water
faucet or turning up the thermostat on an activated heating system.
Readily Accessible: An item or component is readily
accessible if, in the judgement of the inspector, it is capable of being safely
observed without movement of obstacles, detachment or disengagement of
connecting or securing devices, or other unsafe or difficult procedures to gain
access.
Representative Number: A sufficient number to serve as a
typical or characteristic example of the item(s) inspected.
Shut-down: A system or equipment is considered to be
shut-down when its normal control device(s) will not cause it to become
activated or operational. The Inspector is not required to activate or operate
safety devices (fuses, breakers, etc.) in the "off" position. It is not the
responsibility of the Inspector to put these controls in the "on" mode, nor to
ensure that the equipment or systems to be tested are operable at the time of
the inspection.
Slab on Grade: Structures that have no crawl space and are
in direct contact with the soil. Slabs may or may not have supporting piers or
pads.
Technically exhaustive: An inspection is technically
exhaustive when it involves the use of measurements, instruments, testing
calculations and other means to develop scientific or engineering findings,
conclusions, and recommendations.
Verify: To confirm or substantiate.
Code of Ethics
To maintain the integrity and high standards of skill and practice in the home inspection profession, the
following rules of conduct and ethics shall be binding upon the use of the Standards of Practice (Standards) of the National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. (NAHI):
The Inspector will act as a disinterested third party and will discharge his duties with integrity and
fidelity to the public, with fairness and impartiality to all parties.
The Inspector shall uphold the honor and dignity of this profession and avoid association with any
enterprise of questionable character or apparent conflict of interest.
The Inspector will express an opinion only when it is based on practical experience and honest conviction.
The Inspector will always act in good faith toward the client.
The Inspector will not disclose any information concerning the results of the inspection without the
approval of the client for whom the inspection was performed.
The Inspector will not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party
for the same service on the same property without the consent of all interested
parties.
The Inspector will not accept nor offer commissions or allowances, directly or indirectly, from other
parties dealing with the client in connection with work for which the Inspector
is responsible.
The Inspector may provide “additional inspection services” only after proper disclosure to the client that
the “additional inspection services” are not part of the home inspection, as
defined by the NAHI Standards of Practice. In addition, the sale of products or
correction of deficiencies are not permitted under this Code of Ethics. The
Inspector will promptly disclose to the client any interest in any business
which may affect the client, the quality or the result of the inspection.
The Inspector shall make every effort to uphold, maintain and improve the professional practice,
integrity and reputation of NAHI. He will report all violations of this Code by
other members, and any other relevant information, to NAHI for possible remedial
action.
An appraisal or opinion of the market value of the inspected property will not be expressed by the
Inspector within the context of the inspection.
Use of the NAHI logo and name is limited to those persons holding the designation of Member. Provisional
and Affiliate Members may use specifically designated logos in advertising.
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