Massachusetts home inspection report template

Set up for Massachusetts

• The report identifies the components the standards list, indicates which systems and components present and designated for inspection were not inspected, and gives the condition of those inspected, including any needing repair266 CMR 6.03 (1) (c) 1. to 3.
• The report records the on-site inspection start and finish times266 CMR 6.03 (1) (c) 6.
• The report records the weather conditions at the time of the inspection266 CMR 6.03 (1) (c) 7.
• The report records the inspector's name (and the trainee's, if any), the client's name and the address of the property266 CMR 6.03 (1) (c) 4., 5.

Also required in Massachusetts

These rules are about how and when you report, not the template's fields. Check them before you deliver.

• The report records any obstructions or conditions that prevented systems and components from being inspected266 CMR 6.03 (1) (c) 8.
• The report tells the client when additional investigation is required: when the scope of a repair is unknown, concealed damage is suspected, or the matter is beyond the inspector's expertise266 CMR 6.03 (3)
• Home inspectors are prohibited from determining the cost of repairs of any item in their report266 CMR 6.06 (4), Prohibitions
• For each system the report identifies what the standards list, such as roof covering type, cladding materials, foundation materials, overhead or underground service, wiring type, main disconnect ampacity, piping types, water heater type and nameplate capacity, the main shut-off location, heating energy source and distribution, and bathroom ventilation other than windows266 CMR 6.04
• The report notes the methods used to observe the roofing, under-floor crawl spaces and attics, and any signs of previous or active leaks and water penetration266 CMR 6.04 (1) (c), (3) (c)
• The report notes the absence of an installed heat source in habitable rooms including kitchens and bathrooms, exposed flues in a smoke chamber used by other appliances, abandoned oil tanks, and observed evidence of underground fuel storage tanks266 CMR 6.04 (6) (c)
• Inspectors may not operate a system that is shut down or inoperable, or turn on a shut-off electrical or fuel supply; they recommend that the seller or seller's representative demonstrate those systems are functional266 CMR 6.06 (7), (8)
• Inspectors give clients buying a single-family home, a building with fewer than five units, or a condominium unit in one, the Board's document on the procedures and benefits of a home energy audit, at or before closing and without any extra fee266 CMR 6.07
• Inspectors may not report on market value, marketability or suitability for any use, advise on whether to buy, or offer to repair a dwelling their firm inspected266 CMR 6.06 (1), (2), (5)
• The inspector uses a written or digital contract, gives the contract only to the client unless the client authorizes otherwise in writing, and timely submits a confidential written report only to the client266 CMR 6.03 (1) (a), (c)
• No one may conduct a home inspection for compensation in Massachusetts unless licensed by the Board and unless they provide a written reportM.G.L. c. 112, s. 222 (a)
• Home inspectors carry errors and omissions insurance of at least 250,000 dollars in the aggregate, and any action arising from a home inspection must be started within 2 years after the completed written reportM.G.L. c. 112, s. 225

What is in it

• RoofRoof covering, Flashing, Skylights, chimneys and penetrations, Gutters, downspouts and roof drainage
• ExteriorWall cladding and trim, Exterior doors and windows, Decks, porches, balconies, steps and railings, Walkways, driveways, grading and drainage
• Structure and foundationFoundation, Basement or crawlspace, Floor structure, Wall, ceiling and roof structure
• HeatingHeating equipment, Ducts, vents and distribution, Flue and venting, Thermostat and controls
• CoolingCooling equipment, Condensate drainage, Operation and temperature differential
• PlumbingWater supply and distribution, Drain, waste and vent, Water heater, Fixtures and faucets, Sump pump, Main water shut-off valve location
• ElectricalService entrance and grounding, Main panel and overcurrent protection, Branch wiring, GFCI and AFCI protection, Receptacles, switches and fixtures, Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• Fireplaces and chimneysFireplace, firebox and hearth, Chimney, flue and cap, Damper
• Attic, insulation and ventilationAttic access, Insulation, Attic ventilation, Bath, kitchen and dryer exhaust
• InteriorWalls, ceilings and floors, Interior doors and windows, Stairs, handrails and guards, Cabinets and countertops
• Built-in appliancesRange, oven and cooktop, Dishwasher, Built-in microwave, Food waste disposer
• GarageGarage door and opener (auto-reverse), Fire separation and entry door, Floor, walls and ceiling

Rules last reviewed October 10, 2026. Read the full Massachusetts home inspection report requirements.