Ten Tips For How to Prepare For a Home Inspection

Ten Tips For How to Prepare For a Home Inspection

Sellers can speed up their home sale by preparing their home for the inspection ahead of time using the following tips. The inspection will go smoother, with fewer concerns to delay closing.

1.       Make sure that the water, electrical and gas service are on, and that any gas pilot lights are lit.

2.       Make sure any pets won’t interfere with the inspection. It is best that any pets be removed from the home. Make sure your agent is aware of any pets that are at the home.

3.       Ensure any burned-out light bulbs are replaced to avoid a fixture being reported as inoperable on the report since this may incorrectly lead to the assumption of electrical issues with the home. 

4.       Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors, and replace any dead batteries.

5.       Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters.

6.       Move stored items, debris and wood away from the foundation. This may lead to the report reflecting an inability to properly asses the condition of the foundation. It may also be cited as being conducive conditions for wood destroying organisms. Either of these can cause concern for potential buyers.

7.       Make sure there is free access to all HVAC equipment, electrical service panels, water heaters, the attic and the crawlspace.

8.       Ensure any locked areas that your home inspector must access, such as the attic door or hatch, electrical service panel, the door to the basement, and any exterior gates are unlocked.

9.       Trim tree limbs so that they are at least 10 feet from the roof. Trim shrubs so they are at least 18" away from the house. Vegetation that is closer than 18" to the house can hide pests, hold moisture against the exterior and physically abrade siding.

10.   Repair or replace any broken or missing items, such as doorknobs, locks and latches, windowpanes and screens, gutters and downspouts, and chimney caps.

Following the ten tips listed before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property. Better yet, have 1^st Priority Home Inspections, LLC (931)260-7829 conduct a pre-listing inspection to ensure that your home is move in ready. Your real estate agent will thank you.