Preparing for Your Home Inspection: Do’s and Don’ts
When you’re buying or selling a home, a thorough inspection is a crucial step in the process. It gives buyers peace of mind, ensuring they know exactly what they’re getting into, while it helps sellers address potential issues before closing. To make the most of your home inspection, there are several steps you can take to prepare. Here’s a guide on the do’s and don’ts to help things go smoothly.
Do’s:
Do Clean and Declutter Key Areas
The inspector will need access to many parts of the home, including the attic, basement, electrical panel, and HVAC system. Make sure these areas are easily accessible by clearing away any clutter or obstacles. This also helps give a better impression of the home’s condition and shows that it has been well cared for.
Do Address Minor Repairs in Advance
If you’re aware of any small, easily fixable issues—like leaky faucets, broken door handles, or missing lightbulbs—take care of these before the inspection. Though these may seem minor, they can add up to a list of maintenance concerns, potentially causing unnecessary stress for the buyer.
Do Ensure Utilities are On
If the home is vacant, make sure all utilities (electricity, water, gas) are turned on for the inspection. The inspector will need to test appliances, HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical outlets, and that won’t be possible without access to these utilities.
Do Provide Documentation of Repairs
If you’ve made any significant repairs or upgrades, it’s a good idea to provide documentation for the home inspector. This could include receipts, warranties, or contractor reports for things like new roofs, HVAC installations, or foundation work. This not only shows transparency but also highlights that the home has been well-maintained.
Do Plan to Be Away During the Inspection
For sellers, it’s generally best to leave the property during the inspection. This allows the inspector to do their job without feeling rushed or pressured, and it gives the buyer the opportunity to ask questions or discuss findings freely. Inspections can take a few hours, so plan accordingly.
Don’ts:
Don’t Conceal Problems
Attempting to cover up problems, whether major or minor, will likely backfire. Home inspectors are trained to identify issues, and hiding problems could damage your credibility or potentially derail the sale altogether. It’s always better to be upfront and honest about the condition of your home.
Don’t Forget to Replace Air Filters
A dirty air filter is a small detail that can make a big impression on a buyer. It signals that the HVAC system may not have been maintained properly. Make sure to replace old filters, which can also improve the airflow and efficiency of your system.
Don’t Neglect the Exterior
The outside of the home is just as important as the inside. Clear debris from gutters, trim overgrown plants, and check that exterior lights are functioning. Inspectors will look at the roof, foundation, and siding, so ensure everything is in good shape and accessible.
Don’t Leave Pets Unattended
If you have pets, it’s best to remove them from the house during the inspection. At the very least, make sure they are securely contained. Not only can pets be a distraction for the inspector, but they can also make some areas of the home inaccessible or create a safety issue.
Don’t Forget to Unlock Spaces
Make sure all doors, including those to attics, basements, garages, and sheds, are unlocked. If an inspector can’t access a certain area, they may report it as “not inspected,” which can raise questions for the buyer or lead to a follow-up inspection—potentially delaying the sale.
Conclusion
Preparing for a home inspection doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can help ensure a smooth, efficient inspection process that benefits both buyers and sellers. Remember, a home inspection is not about perfection, but about being informed. The more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be for everyone involved.