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How to Get Ready for a Home Inspection

 

Depending on where you live, you, as the seller, may be required by your local government to provide the buyer with a detailed home inspection while giving the buyer the option to obtain their own inspection. Or, in other areas, you, as the seller, may only need to provide disclosures and the buyer pays for the inspection. Either way, it’s best to be prepared for an inspector to come to your home. Here are some tips on how to be ready:

• Cleaning the house is a simple, yet effective way to show the inspector that you have taken care of your home. For most people, a clean house shows pride in ownership. Inspectors are no different than anyone else, so something as little as this can subtly show them that your home has been maintained.
• Make sure you are on time for your designated inspection. Home inspectors are known for being on time, so, to be safe, have the home ready to be inspected 30 minutes before they are to arrive. Don’t be surprised if they show up early!
• The inspector will need to turn on the stove, run the dishwasher, test the AC and furnace, so make sure to leave the utilities on, especially if the house is vacant. The inspector can’t check the electrical wiring if the power is off, so make sure everything is on and working before they get there. If not, you’ll have to reschedule the inspection, which could throw off your closing and possibly even the removal of the buyer’s home inspection contingency.
• Make sure to clear out all boxes and clutter away from furnaces, air conditioners, and water heaters. Inspectors will need three to four feet to check these areas, so the more accessible you can make these areas, the more beneficial for you.
• Most home inspectors will not light pilot lights because of the liability, so make sure they are lit before the inspector gets there. If they are not lit, the inspector will not check your hot water heater, gas stove or furnace, which would set you back in your selling timeline as the buyer would most likely not close until they are inspected.
• Keeping a clear path to the garage, basement and/or attic will make the inspection easier on the inspector. Vacuuming up the spider webs also makes a good impression.
• Leave all the keys and doors open for the inspector to walk freely in and out of. Also, unlock the covers of any electrical boxes or sprinkler systems.
• Especially in winter, it’s important to clear a pathway around the house by the foundation. This makes it easier for the inspector to check for foundation cracks or holes that could be covered in snow. During the warmer months, cut down dead branches and clear brush away from the foundation. Move your trash cans away from the house.
• Make available any documents you may have about repairs, remodels, or upgrades you have done to the home, utilities, or appliances. This gives the buyer peace of mind about the home and to also know those items were inspected.
If a buyer is accompanying the inspector, it’s a good idea for you as the seller to not be present. Buyers can feel intimidated and uncomfortable and not want to ask certain questions they may have. If possible, take your children and plan to be gone for three hours, and don’t leave your pets running free.