Getting your home inspected is an important part of the home selling process. Surprises in the inspection can delay (or completely derail) closing so you want to make sure that everything the inspector will look at is in the shape it needs to be in. A little preparation can ensure sellers have great home inspections. This list of important aspects of a house that are looked at during an inspection will help.
- Are any trees rubbing against the roof?
- Is there any standing water?
- Are there any sick or dying trees?
- Are there any crumbling concrete paths?
- Fix loose or hanging gutters
- Secure weather stripping on doors and windows
- Check for proper ventilation in the kitchen
- Fix all leaky faucets or pipes
- Double check that all faucets work and everything drains properly (shower, sinks, toilets)
- Install hand railings on all interior and exterior staircases
- Fire rated garage door
- A secure and level deck
- Make sure all lightbulbs are functional
- Light the pilot lights of anything that uses gas
- Leave the utilities on. The home inspector will need to test all appliances (stove, dishwasher, furnace, air conditioning)
- Provide keys for outbuildings and electrical boxes
- Have repair documents handy
Don’t try to conceal a defect. The inspectors can tell when something is not working properly. It makes them suspicious if they feel that the homeowner might be trying to hide something.
The home inspector should have clear and unencumbered access to any attic or crawlspaces. Don’t make them have to move anything out of the way to get to them. Consider the testing that will go into appliances and make sure that everything is clean and ready to use.
Home inspectors often arrive early for their appointments to prepare. You should be there early too. Prepare for the inspection to take 2 to 4 hours.
Posted by 
