A pre-listing inspection focuses on proper functionality of all major systems and components of the house: heating and cooling; electrical; plumbing; roof and structure; siding; and doors and windows. It's a full inspection for the seller to better understand the condition of their home prior to the buyer's inspection.

While people interested in buying a home have always been careful to “inspect” it throughout history, the idea of a well trained professional home inspection is something relatively new. Most say the home inspection industry was spawned during the 1970s, while others date it from the 1930s.