Electrical
- How old is the electrical panel, and what brand is it?
- Is there any knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring?
- What's the service size — 60, 100, or 200 amp?
Plumbing & water
- What are the water pipes made of — copper, PEX, poly-B, or galvanized?
- How old is the water heater, and is it owned or rented?
- Is the service line lead?
Roof, heating & structure
- How old is the roof, and has it ever leaked?
- How old is the furnace, and is there an oil tank?
- Any known foundation movement or basement water?
The one that ties it together
Ask: has anyone had trouble insuring this home? Coverage problems point straight at the costly issues — see uninsurable homes.