There’s a lot to remember before a home inspection. Even when the home your preparing to sell is in great shape, an inspector visit can be nerve-racking. With so many things to remember, how can you ensure that the process goes off without a hitch?
Last year, we wrote a post about the major steps sellers should take in the days and weeks leading up to a home inspection. In this post, we’ll cover the specific details you should take care of before the inspector arrives.
1) Ensure your house is clean
So, you’ve taken care of all necessary repairs. Perhaps you’ve even repainted and carried out the big tasks required to get your house presentable. Still, you’ll probably want to make sure your house is clean and tidy before the inspector comes.
Dirt, dust, and clutter can pose a distraction during the inspection process. Whether you’re living at home or staying elsewhere while you’re selling, we recommend giving the place a once-over to ensure the inspection goes as smoothly as possible.
2) Make inspecting the furnace & water heater easy
The inspector will be checking your furnace and water heater. Make these tasks easy to perform by ensuring there’s no clutter to get in their way. A good rule of thumb is to provide four or five feet of unobstructed space—so get those boxes and storage items packed away. And if you’re not staying in the house, remember to leave the pilot light lit!
3) Ensure that the garage is accessible
It’s easy to forget about spaces that you may not currently be using. Specifically, the inspector will need to get into your garage—and check that your garage door is in good working order. Leave your your garage key and door opener in an accessible, easy-to-spot place. For clarity’s sake, label all keys, including those used for secured electrical boxes.
4) Leave your utilities on
The person inspecting your house will make sure that your dishwasher, stove, air conditioner, and other appliances work properly. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure your utilities are up and running.
Remember: your want to minimize the chances of a return visit. Forgetting to turn your utilities on prior to an inspection can prolong the entire process.
5)Clear plant debris from your foundation
Mulch, leaves, and dead plant matter can build up along the exterior of your house’s foundation. It’s important to keep this key inspection area clear. Weather conditions are often unpredictable, so we recommend checking out the perimeter of your house the night before your inspection.
6) Make all documents available
If you have any warranty or repair-related documents that the inspector should see, leave them in a highly-visible place. Now that your kitchen is decluttered, there will be no question that those papers stacked neatly on the table are meant to be reviewed.
7) Leave the house
Sellers sometimes think they’re being helpful by sticking around to answer any questions that might arise. But the truth is, inspectors prefer to do their job without owners hanging around. Plan a fun day out, and try to relax. We suggest leaving prior to inspection time, and staying out of the house for at least 3 or 4 hours.
Preparing to sell your home? We can help you get prepared for every step of the selling process—including your inspection. Send us a message and we can set up a time to discuss your needs.
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