Getting your home ready for the "Home Inspection"

Selling a home can be a stressful time and the inspection can be the most stressful of all, whether you are going through a pre-list inspection or a pre-sell inspection.  The things that I have listed here are the items that are the most common areas listed in the report that can be taken care of in a short amount of time. 

Getting your home ready for the “Home Inspection”

1. Make sure that all interior and exterior light fixtures work.  If a light bulb is not working the inspector must note that the fixture is not working correctly.
2. Provide access to the furnace, water heater and electrical panels.   The Inspector will need to remove the panel cover to inspect the interior of the panel, if it is locked remove the lock or provide the key.
3. Install new air filters in the grill.  This would be a good time to vacuum the grill also; a dirty grill indicates that the filter has not been changed regularly.  A clean air filter will allow the furnace and air conditioning system to run at maximum efficiency. 
4. Ensure that the windows open smoothly.  If the windows require lubrication use a product like “Pledge” spray furniture wax.    If there are locks that require a special tool to open, remove those locks for the duration of the inspection.
5. Replace damaged window screens at the windows that open.  The inspector will report torn screens.  
6. Tighten all door knobs and stair railings.  Also make sure that all doors open and close without rubbing on the door jam.  Make sure that all doors latch. 
7. Clear the way to the attic panel.  If there are multiple accesses into the attic, Make sure that they are all accessible.  The inspector must enter the attic space to inspect it.
8. If you use the attic space for storage please clear a path for the inspector that will not inhibit their inspection.
9. Note: The dishwasher will be inspected and run during the inspection.  If you have dirty dishes, provide the soap and the inspector will do the dishes during the inspection.  (Inspectors do not put dishes away)
10. The inspector will be filling all sinks and tubs and running the showers.  Please have only minimal items in the sinks, tubs and showers.
11. If the washing machine and drier are to be left at the home, be prepared to run the washing machine for the inspector.  Note: Most inspectors will not run the washing machine if the occupant does not run it for them.
12. If you have knowledge of any plumbing drain leaks please inform the inspector.  The inspector must clean up the water to insure that there is no moisture damage when they leave.
13. If you have pets that are not friendly to strangers or pets inside the house that will bolt and run, please inform the inspector.
14. If the home is not occupied, insure that all utilities are on for the inspection.  Remember the gas company must have access to the home to turn the gas service on.
15. Check the batteries in the smoke detectors to insure that the detector works.  Change the batteries if they have not been changed in a year.  Many times the testing of the unit will deplete the battery and the alarm will start beaming in the middle of the next night.