Floor plan

The floor plan

Every home has the same five trouble spots. Tap an area to read the matching guide, or scroll for a quick summary of each.

1

Roof and gutters

Roofline

Look for: Look from the ground for missing, curled or cracked pieces, sagging lines and overflowing gutters.

Ask: Is this a repair or a replacement? How are leaks and flashing handled?

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2

Windows and doors

Entry

Look for: Drafts, sticking sashes, worn weatherstripping and fogged glass are common signals.

Ask: Who measures? What do the product and installation warranties cover?

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3

Insulation and air sealing

Walls and attic

Look for: Cold rooms, hot attics and high energy bills often start with gaps and thin insulation.

Ask: Will air sealing come first? What R-value goes where?

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4

Plumbing and electrical

Utility closet

Look for: Know where your main water shutoff and electrical panel are, and what is best left to licensed pros.

Ask: Are you licensed and insured here? Who pulls the permit?

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5

Decks, fences and yards

Yard

Look for: Property lines, drainage and neighborhood rules decide what is possible outside.

Ask: Who checks property lines and permits? What happens to old materials?

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