Whether you’re buying or selling a home, a home inspection is a crucial step in the process. As a seller, preparing your home for inspection ensures that it presents well and minimizes potential issues that could delay the sale. For buyers, it’s a chance to thoroughly evaluate the property before making a commitment. In both cases, understanding how to prepare for a home inspection can save you time, money, and stress.
Drew McClellan from Quality Home Inspections offers expert advice to help you get ready for your inspection. Follow these do’s and don’ts to ensure a smooth and successful home inspection.
Do’s: How to Properly Prepare for a Home Inspection
1. Do Clean and Declutter Your Home
A clean, clutter-free home creates a great first impression and makes it easier for the inspector to access important areas. Move furniture or boxes away from walls, attics, basements, and other key areas the inspector will need to examine.
Why It Matters: A cluttered home can make it difficult for the inspector to access key components like electrical panels, plumbing systems, or the HVAC unit. Ensuring these areas are easy to reach allows the inspection to go smoothly.
2. Do Provide Clear Access to Major Systems
Ensure that the inspector can easily reach major systems like the furnace, water heater, electrical panel, and attic. Clear pathways and unlock any doors, gates, or crawl spaces.
Why It Matters: The inspector needs to thoroughly examine your home’s systems. Blocking access to these areas can delay the inspection or cause incomplete results, leading to potential follow-up inspections.
3. Do Replace Burnt-Out Light Bulbs and Check Batteries
Inspectors will check all lights and smoke detectors to ensure they are in working order. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Why It Matters: Something as simple as a burnt-out bulb can raise questions about the electrical system. Replacing them ahead of time shows the inspector that everything is in good working order. Learn more about what inspectors look for in the Top 10 Issues Found During a Home Inspection.
4. Do Trim Trees and Bushes Away from the House
Overgrown trees, shrubs, or bushes that are touching your home can raise concerns during an inspection. Trim them back to ensure they aren’t causing damage to siding, the roof, or the foundation.
Why It Matters: Trees or bushes in contact with your home can contribute to moisture problems, foundation issues, or pest infestations. Clearing this vegetation makes it easier for the inspector to examine the exterior of the home.
5. Do Ensure Utilities Are Turned On
For a thorough inspection, all utilities—electricity, gas, and water—must be on and functioning. If you’ve moved out or the house is vacant, ensure that the utilities remain connected for the inspection.
Why It Matters: If utilities aren’t turned on, the inspector won’t be able to properly test the home’s systems, which can delay the process and require a follow-up inspection. Sellers preparing for an inspection can benefit from understanding The Importance of Pre-Listing Home Inspections.
Don’ts: What to Avoid Before a Home Inspection
1. Don’t Hide Known Issues
If you’re aware of any problems with your home, such as a leaky faucet or a broken appliance, don’t attempt to hide them. Instead, be upfront with the inspector.
Why It Matters: Home inspectors are trained to spot even the most subtle signs of damage or malfunction. Trying to hide an issue will not only get discovered but could also raise concerns about what else might be wrong with the home.
2. Don’t Leave Pets Unattended
While pets are often part of the family, they can be a distraction during a home inspection. If possible, make arrangements to have your pets out of the house during the inspection or secure them in a safe area.
Why It Matters: Pets can make inspectors uncomfortable or distract them from doing their job thoroughly. It’s best to remove them from the premises or keep them safely contained during the inspection.
3. Don’t Forget to Check for Leaks
Check under sinks, around toilets, and any exposed plumbing for leaks before the inspection. Fixing small leaks beforehand can prevent them from showing up on the inspection report.
Why It Matters: Even a small, easily fixed leak can suggest bigger plumbing problems. Taking care of minor leaks ahead of time can help avoid red flags in the inspection report. Gain insight into what inspectors are looking for in Understanding the Home Inspection Process.
4. Don’t Ignore Maintenance Tasks
Minor maintenance tasks, such as replacing air filters, tightening loose doorknobs, or cleaning gutters, can go a long way in improving the inspection outcome. Don’t neglect these small fixes before the inspector arrives.
Why It Matters: While small issues won’t usually cause a deal to fall through, they can create a negative impression. A well-maintained home reflects positively on the seller and reassures the buyer that the property has been cared for.
5. Don’t Leave Personal Belongings in the Way
Avoid leaving personal belongings, such as valuable items, in areas where the inspector will need access. While inspectors are professional and respectful, removing valuables from high-traffic areas adds a layer of security and keeps the inspection flowing smoothly.
Why It Matters: The home inspector will need access to areas like closets, utility rooms, and attics. Removing personal items from these spaces ensures the inspector can do their job without any obstructions.
Bonus Tips for Homebuyers: How to Prepare for Your Home’s Inspection
If you’re a buyer preparing for a home inspection, here are a few extra tips to help you get the most out of the process:
- Attend the Inspection: Being present during the inspection allows you to see any issues firsthand and ask the inspector questions.
- Bring a Notepad: Use the inspection as an opportunity to learn more about your potential new home, and take notes on any maintenance tasks or future repairs that may be needed.
- Ask Questions: If you don’t understand something the inspector points out, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. The goal is to ensure you fully understand the condition of the home. Buyers can also explore our Buyers’ Page for more resources.
Schedule Your Home Inspection Today
Whether you’re buying or selling a home, a professional inspection is key to a successful transaction. Contact Drew McClellan at Quality Home Inspections to schedule your inspection today. Take the first step toward a smoother home-buying or selling experience by visiting our Home Inspections page or calling (720) 879-8000.