Which of the following is considered a component of a home inspection?

Exterior surfaces are indeed a fundamental component of a home inspection. During a home inspection, the inspector thoroughly evaluates the visible parts of the exterior, including the siding, roof, windows, doors, and foundation. This assessment helps identify issues such as water damage, structural problems, and maintenance needs.

The other options, while related to home ownership and property value, do not fall under the primary scope of a standard home inspection. Landscaping is typically considered part of the property presentation but does not affect the home's structural integrity or safety directly. Environmental assessments delve deeper into issues like contamination or hazards and are usually a different specialized service. Meanwhile, marketing techniques pertain to selling a home rather than assessing its condition. Thus, the most relevant and essential aspect in this context is the evaluation of exterior surfaces as part of the home inspection process.