A home inspection is a snapshot of one day. This checklist covers the safety basics an owner should confirm personally, none of which require specialist skills.
Alarms and detectors
California requires working smoke alarms in bedrooms, outside sleeping areas and on every level, and carbon-monoxide alarms in homes with fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage. Requirements change, so confirm the current state and local rules rather than relying on what the previous owner installed. Test each unit with its button and note the replacement date.
Fire and escape
Keep a multi-purpose extinguisher within reach of the kitchen and another in the garage, and read the instructions before you need them. Check that bedroom windows open, that security bars have interior releases, and that the path to each exit stays clear of stored boxes.
Shut-offs and utilities
Locate the main water shut-off, the individual fixture stops, the electrical panel and the gas shut-off. Keep a meter key near the water meter. Do not turn gas back on yourself after shutting it off — that is a job for the utility or a qualified professional.
Exterior and entry
Rekey or change exterior locks, light the paths and side gates, and trim back planting that blocks sight lines to doors. Cameras and video doorbells are optional additions rather than substitutes for good lighting and solid hardware.
What a product cannot do
No device guarantees safety, prevents all damage, or replaces professional inspection and maintenance. Treat everything here as a layer, not a solution. Some home projects require specialized training, permits, or a licensed professional. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
Product suggestions
Products mentioned in this article
Informational suggestions only. We do not publish prices, ratings or reviews, and a product is never a substitute for professional work.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialSmoke detectors
Photoelectric or dual-sensor alarms for hallways, bedrooms and each floor. California has specific placement rules — confirm current state and local requirements.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialCarbon-monoxide detectors
Required in California homes with fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage. Units carry an expiry date printed on the housing.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialFire extinguishers
Multi-purpose household extinguishers sized for kitchen and garage use. Check the rating and the service date on the gauge.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialMotion-sensor lighting
Battery or solar lights for paths, side yards and entry doors. Hardwired fixtures should be installed by a licensed electrician.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialFirst-aid kit
A stocked household kit for minor injuries. Check contents and expiry dates once a year.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Roofing, electrical, structural, HVAC and anything permit-required or involving gas or main water lines should be handled by a qualified professional — not as a do-it-yourself project. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
Request a Pro MatchKeep reading
Some home projects require specialized training, permits, or a licensed professional. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
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