Preparing for a home inspection as a seller is crucial to ensuring a smooth and successful transaction. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare your home for inspection:
Exterior:
- Trim trees, shrubs, and bushes away from the house to prevent damage to the exterior and allow for proper ventilation.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.
- Check for any signs of damage or deterioration on the exterior of the house, including siding, trim, windows, and doors.
- Repair any cracks or gaps in the foundation, driveway, walkways, or sidewalks.
- Ensure that outdoor lights, electrical outlets, and faucets are functioning properly.
- Remove any debris, clutter, or hazards from the yard, patio, deck, or outdoor living spaces.
Interior:
- Clean and declutter each room to showcase the space and allow the inspector to access all areas easily.
- Test all light switches, outlets, and fixtures to ensure they are working correctly.
- Check for any signs of water damage, leaks, or moisture issues in the attic, basement, and crawl spaces.
- Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks, stains, or signs of structural damage.
- Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they are in working order.
- Check HVAC systems, including furnaces, air conditioners, and water heaters, and replace filters if necessary.
- Inspect plumbing fixtures, including faucets, toilets, sinks, and showers, for leaks or signs of damage.
- Ensure that all appliances, including refrigerators, stoves, ovens, dishwashers, and laundry machines, are clean and in working order.
- Test garage doors and openers to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Make sure all doors and windows open and close properly and that locks and latches are in working order.
Documentation:
- Gather any relevant documentation, including warranties, manuals, permits, and maintenance records, to provide to the inspector.
- Make a list of any recent repairs or renovations done to the property, including dates and details of the work performed.
- Provide information about any known issues or concerns with the property, such as previous water damage, pest infestations, or structural issues.
Communication:
- Communicate openly and honestly with the home inspector and provide them with access to all areas of the property.
- Be prepared to address any questions or concerns raised by the inspector and provide any additional information or documentation as needed.
- Consider hiring a pre-listing inspection to identify any potential issues beforehand and address them proactively before the buyer’s inspection.
By following this checklist and adequately preparing your home for inspection, you can help ensure a positive outcome and increase the likelihood of a successful sale.
