How to Prepare for a Home Inspection
You’ve made the decision to sell your home and are ready to get it listed. You know that at some point you will be having a home inspection done, which may or may end up being in your favor. To help you and your family make this transition easier, I’ve put together a list of things you can do to make the home inspection process easier for everyone.
Clean and de-clutter access points
Make sure that the home inspector has easy access throughout your entire house. If there is an area they can’t get to, they can’t inspect it, which could raise some red flags for you.
Clear the perimeter
Just as you want the inside accessible, make sure the exterior of your home is cleared as well. The inspector will be looking at everything from caulking around the windows, to the stucco and siding. Make sure all debris or plant growth is out of the way.
Check the roof
Chances are it’s been a while since you were on your roof. It would be a good idea to get up there and clear away any debris from your gutters, as well as check for loose, damaged, or missing tiles.
Inspect the plumbing
We all know water leaks can cause major problems in a home. Go throughout your home and turn on all your faucets, flush the toilets, and run the bathtubs and showers. While the water is running, look under your cabinets to check for any water leaks.
If you notice the water pressure is low, you might have clogged or damaged pipes.
Check your appliances
If any appliances are being included in the sale of your home, make sure they are in working condition. You will also want to make sure they are empty and cleared for inspection.
Test your safety precautions
Go through and replace the batteries in all the smoke detectors, and make sure that they, as well as the carbon monoxide detector are working properly.
Make it easy for the home inspector
Leave all necessary keys, garage down opener, or anything else they will need in a clear and accessible spot for them.
On the day of the inspection…
Plan on leaving the home anywhere from 1-2 hours early. Make sure the home is vacant when the inspector gets there. If possible, take any pets with you. If you can’t take your pets with you, make sure they are crated or otherwise secured away from inspection points.
This checklist is there to help you prepare for what the home inspector will be looking at. If you take the time to go through this list and ensure that everything from the smoke detectors to the gutters are in good working condition, this whole process will be easier for you. I cannot tell you how many times I have reported issues with a home that could have easily been fixed before I arrived.
Getting your home ready to sell can be stressful and time consuming. I promise that if you just take the time to do a walk through and clean up or double check these areas, things will go much more smoothly.
If you or someone you know is need of a home inspection, please visit our website to schedule an appointment. We are also available for Radon, Mold, and Meth Testing.