How to Prepare Your Home for an Inspection

Follow these key steps to make sure your home is ready for a professional inspection:

1. Ensure Easy Access to Key Areas
   One of the most important steps in preparing your home is ensuring that the inspector has easy access to all key areas. These include:

• • Attic: Clear the attic entryway so the inspector can safely access the space to check for insulation, ventilation, and potential water damage.
  • Crawl Space or Basement: Make sure the crawl space or basement is easily accessible, as these areas are critical for inspecting the foundation and checking for moisture issues.
  • HVAC System: Clear around the furnace and air conditioning units so they can be inspected for proper function.
  • Electrical Panel: Ensure the electrical panel is not blocked, as the inspector will need to check for proper wiring and circuit breaker condition.
  • Water Heater: Make sure there’s enough space around the water heater for a proper evaluation.

Having these areas cleared and accessible makes the inspection more efficient and ensures nothing important is overlooked.

2. Clean and Declutter the Home
   A clean, clutter-free home creates a positive impression and allows the inspector to focus on the property’s condition without any obstructions. Clear clutter from rooms, hallways, and storage spaces so that the inspector can easily move around and examine all aspects of the home.

Pay special attention to areas like:

• Kitchens and Bathrooms: Clean surfaces, clear out under-sink cabinets, and make sure faucets, fixtures, and drains are easy to access for inspection.
• Laundry Areas: Make sure washing machines and dryers are accessible and free from clutter to allow for the evaluation of water connections and venting.

While cleanliness doesn’t impact the home’s structural condition, a well-maintained environment shows that the property is cared for, which is always a positive.

3. Replace or Fix Minor Issues
   Addressing minor repairs before the inspection can go a long way in avoiding potential red flags on the report. Here are a few quick fixes to consider:

• • Replace burnt-out light bulbs so the inspector can confirm that all electrical systems are functioning.
  • Fix leaky faucets or running toilets to show the plumbing is in good working order.
  • Patch minor holes or cracks in walls that could raise unnecessary concerns about the condition of the home.
  • Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly.

Taking care of these minor issues before the inspection helps create a positive report and avoids unnecessary questions or concerns from buyers.

4. Clear Around the Exterior
   The home’s exterior is just as important as the interior during an inspection. Make sure the inspector can easily access all parts of the property, including:

• • Roof and Gutters: Ensure the roof and gutters are clear of debris, and trim back any tree branches that might obstruct the view.
  • Siding and Foundation: Remove any outdoor items or plants blocking the home’s siding or foundation, so the inspector can check for cracks, moisture buildup, or other issues.
  • Garage and Outbuildings: Clear out garages and storage sheds, and make sure they’re accessible for a proper evaluation.

A well-maintained exterior reflects the overall care given to the home and helps the inspector assess critical components without obstructions.

5. Provide Documentation for Repairs and Upgrades
   If you’ve recently completed repairs, upgrades, or maintenance on the home, it’s helpful to provide documentation to the inspector. This might include:

• • Roof repairs
  • HVAC system maintenance
  • Water heater replacement
  • Electrical upgrades
  • Septic system service

At 1st Choice Inspection Services, we find that having a record of completed work can help streamline the inspection process by showing the inspector that key systems and components have been maintained or updated. It also helps build trust with potential buyers by showing that the home has been properly cared for.

6. Unlock and Test All Systems
   Make sure all systems and areas of the home are accessible and operational. Here’s what you should check:

• • Unlock doors and gates: Ensure the inspector can access areas like sheds, electrical rooms, and outdoor gates without any barriers.
  • Test all windows and doors: Make sure windows and doors open and close properly, as the inspector will test these for functionality.
  • Test garage door openers: Confirm that garage doors are working smoothly and that the openers are operational.
  • Turn on utilities: If the home is vacant, ensure that the power, water, and gas are turned on for the inspection, as the inspector will need these to check the plumbing, electrical, and heating systems.

Making sure everything is accessible and functioning saves time and helps the inspector provide a complete and accurate report.

7. Plan to Be Away During the Inspection
   While it’s helpful for buyers to attend the inspection, sellers should plan to be away. This allows the inspector to work without distractions and gives buyers the freedom to ask questions. Leaving the home also provides privacy for both the inspector and potential buyers as they review the property.

Make arrangements for pets as well, as this ensures they won’t interfere with the inspection or get stressed by the presence of strangers.