You’ve found the right house. The offer’s been accepted. Now comes the next big step: the home inspection.
If you’re buying a home in Middle Tennessee, whether it’s your first time or your fifth, you might be wondering: What exactly does a home inspection include?
At DILIGENT, we’ve walked thousands of buyers through this process across Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and beyond. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s covered during a professional home inspection in Tennessee, and what it means for you as a buyer.

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual evaluation of a property’s major systems and components. It gives you an honest look at the home’s current condition, so you can make informed decisions before closing. We like to say it is how you balance the scales of perceived value and real value.
Inspections are typically performed after your offer is accepted, during the due diligence period of your contract.

What’s included in a home inspection in Middle Tennessee?

The exact services may vary by inspector and house. Here’s what you can expect from a comprehensive home inspection in Tennessee:

Roof

• Shingles and flashing
• Gutters and downspouts
• Chimneys and vents
• Visible signs of leaks or damage

Why it matters:
Storms, sun exposure, and age can cause wear. Inspectors check for issues that could lead to leaks or future repairs.

Attic and Insulation

• Ventilation
• Insulation levels and placement
• Signs of moisture, pests, or mold

Why it matters:
A well-insulated attic means lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.

Exterior

• Siding, brick, or stone veneer
• Windows and doors
• Balconies, railings

Why it matters:
Exterior materials help protect the home from weather and pests. Inspectors look for cracks, gaps, and deterioration.

Foundation and Crawlspace

• Visible foundation cracks or shifting
• Moisture levels and vapor barriers
• Insulation and structural supports
• Signs of wood rot or termite activity

Why it matters:
Middle Tennessee is known for clay-heavy soil, which can affect foundations. Crawlspaces are also common here and often prone to moisture problems.

Plumbing System

• Visible supply and drain lines
• Water heater (age, safety features)

Why it matters:
Leaks, corrosion, or low water pressure can lead to big problems and costly repairs.

Electrical System

• Panel and breakers
• Visible wiring and grounding
• Outlets, switches, and GFCI protection

Why it matters:
Older homes may have outdated or unsafe wiring. Electrical issues are a top fire hazard, so your inspector looks for both safety and functionality.

HVAC (Heating & Cooling)

• Furnace and A/C units
• Function and age of systems

Why it matters:
Replacing an HVAC system is expensive. Knowing how much life is left in yours helps you plan (and possibly negotiate).

Interior

• Large damage to walls, ceilings, and floors
• Doors and windows
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Why it matters:
Interior conditions can reveal past water damage, structural movement, or safety concerns.

What’s Not Included?

A standard home inspection is visual only, meaning inspectors don’t move furniture, open walls, or perform repairs. It doesn’t include:

• Septic or sewer scopes
• Pest-specific inspections (unless certified for termite letters)
• Radon or mold testing (these are available as add-ons)
• Code compliance or appraisal

At DILIGENT, we offer radon testing, termite letters, mold sampling, and short-term rental inspections as add-ons, so you can get a full picture in one visit.

Ready for your home inspection?

A thorough home inspection helps you move forward with clarity, whether you’re negotiating repairs or simply planning for future upgrades.

At DILIGENT, we provide:

• Same-day reports

• Inspections scheduled within 48 hours

• Clear explanations, not just technical jargon

• Add-on services for radon, termites, mold, and more