The inspection encompasses nine core systems: the roof, structure, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, interior, exterior, and insulation. Typically, the inspection begins with an outdoor examination.

Outdoor inspection: This includes the roof tiles and rainwater gutters, ground pathways, exterior walls and foundation walls of doors and windows, garages attached to the main building, outdoor installations of air conditioning, chimneys, and utilities such as water, electricity, and gas.

Indoor inspection: This covers interior water leaks; doors and windows, staircases, floors, walls, and ceilings; ventilation systems; structural components such as foundation walls; plumbing including pipes, faucets, showers, and toilets; electrical components including light switches, sockets, and distribution boxes; heating systems and air ducts, air conditioning systems; water heaters and attic interior observation.

The roof will be climbed and inspected if conditions allow.

Swimming pools, irrigation systems, pipeline humidifiers; private water treatment systems such as septic tanks, wells, and water softeners are not included in the standard inspection.

Electrical appliances such as electric stoves, central vacuums, washers and dryers, dishwashers, and ovens are not included in the standard inspection.

The inspection is conducted visually, and concealed areas cannot be examined. There is no dismantling or handling of personal belongings inside the house. Security and alarm systems are not touched, and closed water, electricity, oil, and gas gates/valves are not opened.

Below are the standards for implementing home inspections by the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors.

(OAHI/CAHPI National Standards of Practice 2012):