• Water Intrusion: Even if the seller’s disclosures do not indicate any problems with leaks, you will want your inspector to assess the structure for susceptibility to water intrusion. Specific areas of concern are the foundation, garage, basement, crawl spaces, as well as all living areas. Take a close look at the seller's disclosures for notations relating to the presence of water and whether the property might be subject to seeping, flooding or running water during seasonal rains. If so, be sure to also inspect for the presence of mold.
  
  
• Sidewalk Repair: Since the maintenance of public sidewalks adjacent to a property is the responsibility of the owner, you will need to check the sidewalks for cracking, settling or other hazardous conditions.
  
  
• Foundation: Have your inspector take a good look at the foundation. Be sure that he or she makes a determination of the seismic strength of this part of the structure, particularly if the house is an old one.
  

As part of the home-purchasing process, you will have to order a pest control inspection, as well. Considering the volatility of California’s landscape, you should also have a geological inspection of the sale property carried out by a qualified geologist. If these obligations seem a bit overwhelming, don’t worry: your REALTOR® will be able to guide you through the details.