Pennsylvania home inspection report template

Pennsylvania rules for this report

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

• The report sets out conspicuously the four statements the Home Inspection Law prescribes: what a home inspection is based on, no representation about latent or concealed defects and no warranty, the advice to seek a professional opinion when the inspector is not a licensed structural engineer or similar professional, and that the report is not an appraisal68 Pa.C.S. s. 7508 (a) (3), Home inspection reports
• The report describes the scope of the inspection, identifying the structural elements, systems and subsystems it covers68 Pa.C.S. s. 7508 (a) (1)
• The report describes any material defects noted, with any recommendation to retain experts to determine their extent and any corrective action; a material defect that poses an unreasonable risk to people on the property is conspicuously identified as such68 Pa.C.S. s. 7508 (a) (2)
• Every deficient item is written up so the material defects are described68 Pa.C.S. s. 7508 (a) (2)
• A material defect is a problem with the property that would significantly reduce its value or involves an unreasonable risk to people on it; a structural element, system or subsystem being near, at or beyond the end of its normal useful life is not by itself a material defect68 Pa.C.S. s. 7102, Definitions ("material defect")
• A home inspector may not state a repair cost estimate, orally or in writing, unless the report names the estimate's source, states it as a range, and says the parties should consider an estimate from a contractor who does that type of repair68 Pa.C.S. s. 7508 (c)
• Unless the law requires otherwise, the report goes only to the client unless the client consents; the seller may ask for a free copy from the person for whom it was prepared68 Pa.C.S. s. 7508 (b)
• Home inspections are covered by the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law; offering repairs for an extra fee on a structure the inspector or employer reported on within 12 months (radon and wood destroying insect work excepted), or inspecting a property in which they have a financial or transfer interest, is an unfair or deceptive practice68 Pa.C.S. s. 7505
• An agreement of transfer that gives the buyer a home inspection calls for a full member in good standing of a national home inspection association, a licensed professional engineer or architect, or a person supervised by a full member who signs the report68 Pa.C.S. s. 7506
• A home inspection contract may define the scope and exclusions, but a limit on liability for gross negligence or willful misconduct, or a waiver of the Home Inspection Law, is void; a claim arising from a report must be brought within one year after the report is delivered68 Pa.C.S. s. 7507 · 68 Pa.C.S. s. 7512
• Violating the report section is a summary offense with a fine of up to 500 dollars68 Pa.C.S. s. 7511 (b)

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
• 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 Pennsylvania home inspection report requirements.