How to prepare for an inspection

GENERAL

Do not rush the inspector; permit the inspector to look at whatever area of the home that the inspector deems necessary. A home inspection of an average size home will take about two hours. The inspector understands that the inspection is a necessary intrusion into the privacy of your home and will make every effort to be as professional and courteous as possible. The inspector will appreciate your cooperation to make the inspection process a pleasant experience.

Pets should be removed from the premises or placed in a secure area.
Refrain from playing loud music or otherwise creating a disturbing environment.
Strong odors from cooking or from pets should be avoided.

EXTERIOR

All exterior doors should be made accessible; be sure all door locks are operable.
Exterior areas around the home should be accessible and tidy.
Be sure that any shrubs next to your house are trimmed.
Consider re-paving all worn and defective walkways.
Repair or replace all poorly secured or disconnected rain down spouts and gutters; gutters should be clean.
Repaint all areas where the paint is peeling or worn; power wash all exterior facades that are not clean or that are mildew covered.
All exterior door handles should operate properly and storm doors have proper door closers.

INTERIOR

All areas of the home must be made accessible, especially utility room areas, and access entry to basement crawl spaces and attic crawl spaces. If the access to your attic crawl space is through a closet, the inspector will appreciate opening the closet door and finding that you have been thoughtful enough to remove clothing and stored items that inhibit entry to the attic.
Consider repainting rooms that are are badly worn.
Consider replacing badly worn carpeting or flooring.
Remove posters, paintings or similar items, so that the inspector view the walls without obstructions.

ELECTRICAL

The inspector will want to remove the cover on the electric service panel to examine the electrical wiring, be sure that the panel is accessible, and that the cover can be readily removed.
Replace all defective light bulbs and electrical switches.
It's best to have a licensed electrician remove, repair, or replace all wiring that was not installed by a licensed electrician.

PLUMBING

The inspector will want to functionally test all of the plumbing fixtures, have a plumber repair leaking or defective plumbing faucets.or other problems. Have these conditions corrected prior to the inspection or advise the inspector not to operate the defective fixtures.
Drains should be clean and free flowing.
Repair defective bathroom tiling, remove all mildew, and re-grout and re-caulk tile where needed.
Have a plumber replace badly rusted and corroded plumbing pipes.

HEATING AND AIR-CONDITIONING

The inspector will want to functionally test the heating or air-conditioning systems, depending on the season. If your system is a forced air system, be sure that the air filter is clean to ensure a maximum air flow.
Be sure that your heating and air-conditioning systems have been recently serviced; cleaning the systems, and replacing filters is recommended.
Keep your home at a comfortable temperature level.
If conditions do not require heating or cooling, keeping your home safely ventilated is a good idea.

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