Dictionary definitions of serviceable include “fulfilling its function adequately” and “functional and durable rather than attractive.” “Serviceable condition” is often used as a generalization in inspection reports to mean that the item appears to be satisfactory, if not perfect, when a more specific description of the condition would be more helpful to a homebuyer. 

   It’s not a word we like to use, although sometimes we refer to a roof as “past the end of its serviceable lifespan,” meaning that it is badly deteriorated, beyond the point where repair is a practical option, and replacement is recommended.  

    Also, see our blog post What makes a house fail the home inspection?

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  To learn more strategies for getting the best possible home inspection, here’s a few of our other blog posts:

• How can I make sure I don't get screwed on my home inspection? 

• Should I trust the Seller's Property Disclosure Statement?

• Can I do my own home inspection?

• How can homebuyers protect themselves against buying a house over a sinkhole? 

• The seller gave me a report from a previous home inspection. Should I use it or get my own inspector? 

    To read about issues related to homes of particular type or one built in a specific decade, visit one of these blog posts:

• What are the common problems to look for when buying a 1950s house?

• What are the common problems to look for when buying a 1960s house?

• What are the common problems to look for when buying a 1970s house?

• What are the common problems to look for when buying a 1980s house?

• What are the common problems to look for when buying a 1990s house?

• What problems should I look for when buying a country house or rural property? 

• What problems should I look for when buying a house that has been moved?

• What problems should I look for when buying a house that has been vacant or abandoned?

• What are the most common problems with older mobile homes?

   Visit our HOME INSPECTION page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.