Common terms used in home inspection reports and documentation. Compiled from Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board Rules & Regulations (878 IAC), Indiana Home Inspection SOP, ASHI Standard of Practice, and related reference documents.
Where multiple sources define the same term, the definition from the Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board (878 IAC) or Indiana Home Inspection SOP takes precedence.
A
Accessible
In the opinion of the inspector, can be approached or entered safely, without difficulty, fear or danger. [Glossary of Terms]
Activate
To turn on, supply power, or enable systems, equipment, or devices to become active by normal operating controls. Examples include turning on the gas or water supply valves to the fixtures and appliances, and activating electrical breakers or fuses. [Glossary of Terms]
Adversely Affect
To constitute, or potentially constitute, a negative or destructive impact. [Glossary of Terms]
Alarm Systems
Warning devices, installed or freestanding, including, but not limited to, the following: (1) Carbon monoxide detectors; (2) Flue gas and other spillage detectors; (3) Security equipment; (4) Ejector pumps; (5) Smoke alarms. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-2]
Appliance
A household device operated by the use of electricity or gas. Not included in this definition are components covered under central heating, central cooling, or plumbing. [Glossary of Terms]
Architectural Service
Any practice involving the art and science of building design for construction of any structure or grouping of structures and the use of space within and surrounding the structures or the design for construction, including, but not specifically limited to, the following: (1) Schematic design; (2) Design development; (3) Preparation of construction contract documents; (4) Administration of the construction contract. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-3]
Automatic Safety Controls
Devices designed and installed to protect systems and components from unsafe conditions. [ASHI Standard of Practice]
B
Board
The home inspectors licensing board established by IC 25-20.2-3-1. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-4]
C
Client
An individual who hires or seeks to hire a licensed home inspector to obtain a home inspection or home inspection report. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-5]
Compensation
Direct or indirect payment, including the expectation of payment whether or not actually received. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-4]
Component
A readily accessible and observable aspect of a system. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-5]
Condition
The visible and conspicuous state of being of an object. [Glossary of Terms]
Correction
Something that is substituted or proposed for what is incorrect, deficient, unsafe, or a defect. [Glossary of Terms]
Crawlspace
See Underfloor Crawlspace.
Cosmetic Defect
A superficial flaw or blemish in the appearance of an inspected system or component that does not significantly affect its intended function, safe operation, or structural integrity. Normal wear, weathering, surface marks, and delayed maintenance are cosmetic conditions. Cosmetic defects do not require further evaluation and repair, correction, or replacement. [Deficiency Definitions document]
D
Decorative
An item that is not required for the operation of the essential systems and components of a home. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-6]
Describe
To report in writing a system or component by its type or other observed characteristics in order to distinguish it from other components used for the same purpose. [Glossary of Terms]
Determine
To arrive at an opinion or conclusion pursuant to examination. [Glossary of Terms]
Dismantle
To take apart or remove any component, device, or piece of equipment that would not be taken apart or removed by a homeowner in the course of normal and routine homeowner maintenance. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-7]
Defect
The condition of an inspected system or component of a residential dwelling that, in the professional judgment of the inspector, significantly affects its intended function, safe operation, or structural integrity. A defective system or component may be considered by the inspector as inoperative, damaged, improperly installed or modified, deteriorated, at or beyond its expected service life, or otherwise not properly working using normal operating controls and procedures. A defect must be further evaluated and repaired, corrected, or replaced by a qualified contractor or skilled professional. [Deficiency Definitions document, conformed to Indiana terminology]
Note: Under Indiana standards, conditions meeting this definition would be reported as “significantly deficient.”
E
Engineering Service
Any professional service or creative work requiring engineering education, training, and experience and the application of special knowledge of the mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences to such professional service or creative work as: (1) consultation; (2) investigation; (3) evaluation; (4) planning; (5) design; and (6) supervision of construction for the purpose of assuring compliance with the specifications and design, in conjunction with structures, buildings, machines, equipment, works, and processes. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-8]
Enter
To go into an area to observe visible components. [Glossary of Terms]
Evaluate
To assess the systems, structures, and/or components of a property. [Glossary of Terms]
Evidence
That which tends to prove or disprove something; something that makes plain or clear; grounds for belief; proof. [Glossary of Terms]
Examine
To visually look. (See Inspect.) [Glossary of Terms]
F
Foundation
The base upon which the structure or wall rests, usually masonry, concrete, or stone, and generally partially underground. [Glossary of Terms]
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. [Glossary of Terms]
Functional
Performing, or able to perform, a function. [Glossary of Terms]
Further Evaluation
Examination and analysis by a qualified professional, tradesman, or service technician beyond that provided by the home inspection. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-9]
Functional Defect
A lack of or an abnormality in something that is necessary for normal and proper functioning and operation, and, therefore, requires further evaluation and correction. [Glossary of Terms, conformed to Indiana terminology]
Note: Under Indiana standards, a functional defect that renders a system or component not functioning would be reported as “significantly deficient.”
H
Home Inspection
A visual analysis for the purpose of providing a professional opinion of the condition of a residential dwelling and the dwelling’s carports or garages, any reasonably accessible installed components, and the operation of the dwelling’s systems, including any controls normally operated by the owner of the dwelling, for the following components: (1) Heating systems; (2) Cooling systems; (3) Electrical systems; (4) Plumbing systems; (5) Structural components; (6) Foundations; (7) Roof coverings; (8) Exterior and interior components; (9) Attic spaces; (10) Basement or crawl space, if any; (11) Any other site aspects that affect the residential dwelling. The term does not include a code compliance inspection. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-6]
Home Inspection Report
A legibly written report prepared for compensation and issued after a home inspection, as defined by IC 25-20.2-2-7. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-7]
Household Appliances
Kitchen and laundry appliances, room air conditioners, and similar appliances. [Glossary of Terms]
I
Identify
To notice and report. [Glossary of Terms]
Indication
That which serves to point out, show, or make known the present existence of something under certain conditions. [Glossary of Terms]
Inspect
To examine readily accessible systems and components safely, using normal operating controls, and accessing readily accessible areas, in accordance with the applicable Standards of Practice. [Glossary of Terms]
Inspected Property
The readily accessible areas of the home, house, or building, and the components and systems included in the inspection. [Glossary of Terms]
Inspection Report
A written communication (possibly including images) of any significantly deficient conditions observed during the inspection. [Glossary of Terms, conformed to Indiana terminology]
Inspector
One who performs a real estate inspection. [Glossary of Terms]
Installed
Attached such that removal requires tools. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-10]
L
Licensed Home Inspector
An individual who is licensed under IC 25-20.2 as a home inspector. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-8]
Licensee
A person who performs home inspections and who is licensed under IC 25-20.2 as a home inspector. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-9]
M
Major Defect
A defect that requires a qualified contractor or skilled professional to immediately further evaluate and repair, correct, or replace. (See Defect.) [Deficiency Definitions document, conformed to Indiana terminology]
Note: Under Indiana standards, this would be reported as “significantly deficient” and would require the licensee’s recommendations to correct or monitor the reported deficiency per 878 IAC 1-2-1.
Minor Defect
A defect that may be improved or repaired by the homeowner with average home maintenance skills as part of their routine home maintenance plan. Replacing the air filter, painting the wall, and applying silicone are examples of home maintenance tasks that a homeowner should be able to do. (See Defect.) [Deficiency Definitions document]
N
Normal Operating Controls
Devices, such as thermostats, switches, or valves, intended to be operated by the homeowner. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-11]
O
Observe
To visually notice. [Glossary of Terms]
Operate
To cause systems to function or turn on with normal operating controls. [Glossary of Terms]
R
Readily Accessible
Available for visual inspection without requiring: (1) moving of personal property; (2) dismantling; (3) destructive measures; or (4) any action that will likely involve risk to persons or property. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-12]
Readily Openable Access Panel
A panel provided for homeowner inspection and maintenance that: (1) is within normal reach; (2) can be removed by one (1) person; and (3) is not sealed in place. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-13]
Recreational Facilities
The following: (1) Spas; (2) Saunas; (3) Steam baths; (4) Swimming pools; (5) Exercise, entertainment, athletic, playground, or other similar equipment and associated accessories. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-14]
Report
To communicate, in writing, on all areas required by IC 25-20.2-2-7. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-15]
Representative Number
One (1) component: (1) per room for multiple similar interior components, such as windows and electric outlets; or (2) on each side of the building for multiple similar exterior components. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-16]
Residential Dwelling
A structure consisting of at least one (1) but not more than five (5) units, each designed for occupancy by a single family, whether the units are occupied or unoccupied. [Indiana Code IC 25-20.2-2-10]
Residential Property
Four or fewer residential units. [Glossary of Terms]
Residential Unit
A home; a single unit providing complete and independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. [Glossary of Terms]
Roof Drainage System
Components used to carry water off a roof and away from a building. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-17]
S
Safety Glazing
Tempered glass, laminated glass, or rigid plastic. [Glossary of Terms]
Shut Down
A state in which a system or component cannot be operated by normal operating controls. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-18]
Solid Fuel Burning Appliances
A hearth and fire chamber or similar prepared place in which a fire may be built and that is built in conjunction with a chimney or a listed assembly of a fire chamber, its chimney, and related factory-made parts designed for unit assembly without requiring field construction. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-20]
Structural Component
A component that supports nonvariable forces or weights and variable forces or weights. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-21]
System
A combination of interacting or interdependent components assembled to carry out one (1) or more functions. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-22]
Significantly Deficient
Unsafe or not functioning. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-19]
Note: This is the Indiana term. Other standards may use “material defect” to describe a similar concept. Under Indiana law, inspectors are required to report systems and components that are “significantly deficient” or near the end of their service lives.
T
Technically Exhaustive
An investigation that involves dismantling, the extensive use of advanced techniques, measurements, instruments, testing, calculations, or other means. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-23]
U
Underfloor Crawlspace
The area within the confines of the foundation and between the ground and the underside of the floor. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-24]
Unsafe
A condition in a readily accessible, installed system or component that is judged to be a significant risk of personal injury during normal, day-to-day use. The risk may be due to: (1) damage; (2) deterioration; (3) improper installation; or (4) a change in accepted residential construction standards. [Indiana Home Inspectors Licensing Board, 878 IAC 1-1-25]
V
Verify
To confirm or substantiate. [Glossary of Terms]
W
Wall Covering
A protective or insulating layer fixed to the outside of a building such as: aluminum, brick, EIFS, stone, stucco, vinyl, and wood. [ASHI Standard of Practice]
Wiring Method
Identification of electrical conductors or wires by their general type, such as non-metallic sheathed cable, armored cable, and knob and tube, etc. [ASHI Standard of Practice]