InSPection Insight Pics: Exterior and Site Elements

The outside of a house does more than boost curb appeal—it shields your home from the elements, manages water flow, supports structural longevity, and keeps people safe from trip hazards and unexpected surprises. At Arrow Home Inspections, we go straight to the point by evaluating not only what’s attached to the home—like siding, decks, stairs, doors, and windows—but also what surrounds it: grading, walkways, driveways, retaining walls, and even the way the land slopes.

From rotted trim to shifting soil, loose railings to overgrown roots, we check for problems that may affect drainage, safety, stability, or energy efficiency. These components might seem cosmetic at first glance, but small cracks, gaps, or tilts can tell a much bigger story. The exterior and site are the home’s armor and foundation’s first line of defense. We make sure they’re not letting you down.

Siding, Trim & Doors

• Rotting or damaged wood siding and trim from moisture or pests
   
• Missing or deteriorated flashing and caulk around doors and windows
   
• Cracked or poorly sealed windows and doors leading to drafts or leaks
   

Decks, Stairs & Railings

• Loose or unsafe railings with wide gaps
   
• Rotting wood or sagging steps on older decks
   
• Decks improperly attached without flashing or lag bolts
   

Grading & Drainage

• Negative grading that sends water toward the foundation
   
• Pooling water or erosion near the base of the home
   
• Vegetation or mulch piled too high against siding
   

Gutters & Downspouts

• Downspouts discharging too close to the home
   
• Missing splash blocks or extensions leading to foundation moisture
   

Walkways & Driveways

• Cracked or uneven surfaces causing trip hazards
   
• Poor slope directing runoff toward the house
   

Vegetation & Retaining Walls

• Overgrown trees or roots damaging siding or walkways
   
• Retaining walls leaning or cracked due to poor drainage
   

Exterior Utilities

• Missing or faulty GFCI outlets
   
• Leaky outdoor faucets or clogged dryer vents

👉 Explore our Exterior & Site Elements photo gallery to see the most common red flags we find and document during inspections—and how they can affect everything from safety to long-term cost. At Arrow, we help you get straight to the point, starting from the ground up.