Inspectors vary in their procedures, but many prefer to start with a home's exterior.
For example, an inspector will look for structural cracks around the foundation of the house, proper ground slope to carry away rainwater, good crawlspace ventilation and good vinyl-siding adhesion. Landscaping and shrubbery are checked to determine whether they're in good condition and aren't damaging the house. Such imperfections are often merely cosmetic rather than structural. The gutters must flow away from the house properly, and the downspouts should be clear of debris. If the pressure is too high it can damage appliances.