People often ask what they should do to get ready for their home inspection. Taking a few thoughtful steps can certainly speed up the sale and your home inspection will go more smoothly with fewer concerns to delay closing. Here’s our Top 10 list to help you best prepare:
1. Confirm that the water, electrical and gas services are turned on.
2. Make sure your pets won’t hinder your home inspection. Ideally, they should be removed from the premises or secured outside. Be sure to tell your agent about any pets at home.
3. Replace burned-out light bulbs to avoid a “Light is inoperable” deficiency listed in your report that may suggest an electrical problem.
4. Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries. These are flagged as major safety items if not working properly (or if non-existent where they need to be!)
5. Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters.
6. Move stored items, debris, and wood away from the foundation so the inspector can fully assess the perimeter.
7. Remove items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electrical service panels, the water heater, attic, and crawlspace.
8. Unlock any locked areas that your home inspector must access, such as the attic door or hatch, the electrical service panel, the door to the basement, and any exterior gates.
9. Trim tree limbs so that they’re not overhanging the roof. Trim any shrubs that are too close to the house and can hide pests or hold moisture against the exterior. If necessary, hire a professional.
10. Repair or replace any broken or missing items, such as door knobs, locks and latches, windowpanes and screens, gutters and downspouts, and chimney caps.
Checking these areas before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property. If you have areas of concern or just want to ensure there are no surprises when it comes time for the buyer’s home inspection, we recommend getting a pre-listing inspection. This will provide you with a full report as to the condition of your property and could uncover any concerns that might compromise the sale. Schedule a pre-listing inspection … your real estate agent will thank you!