GETTING YOUR HOME INSPECTION READY

A home inspection is a critical step in the buying, selling, or maintaining a property. Whether you're looking to buy a home, sell your property, or ensure that your current home is in optimal condition, preparation is key to a smooth and successful inspection. At PropertyPRO Technologies, we specialize in offering professional home inspection services designed to identify potential issues before they become major problems. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing your home and property for a home inspection that can help you get the best results and protect your investment.

1. Ensure Accessibility for the Inspector

One of the most important steps in preparing for a home inspection is ensuring that all areas of your property are easily accessible. Inspectors will need to evaluate various key systems in the house, including:

• Roof
  
  

• Foundation
  
  

• Plumbing
  
  

• Electrical systems
  
  

• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
  
  

To avoid delays during the inspection, clear any obstructions around essential areas, such as the electrical panel, water heater, and plumbing fixtures. Make sure that spaces like the attic, basement, and crawl spaces are free from clutter. By doing so, you allow the inspector to thoroughly assess these systems, ensuring a comprehensive report.

2. Test All Utilities and Systems

A professional home inspection includes verifying that all the home’s major systems and utilities are functioning correctly. Make sure the following are in working order before the inspector arrives:

• Turn on utilities: Check that the water, gas, and electricity are fully operational, as inspectors need to test faucets, light fixtures, outlets, and appliances.
  
  

• HVAC: Ensure that your heating and cooling systems are functioning well, and set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature.
  
  

• Plumbing: Run water in sinks, bathtubs, and toilets to check for leaks or drainage issues.
  
  

Having these utilities and systems up and running will ensure the inspector can fully evaluate their condition, helping prevent any unexpected findings during the inspection.

3. Address Minor Repairs

While your inspector will focus on significant issues, addressing small repairs can make a big difference in how your property is perceived. Minor fixes might include:

• Fixing leaky faucets: This prevents inspectors from thinking there may be a deeper plumbing issue.
  
  

• Replacing light bulbs: Ensure all light fixtures and switches are operational so the inspector can easily assess them.
  
  

• Repairing door latches: Ensure all doors open and close smoothly and that handles and locks are functional.
  
  

These small, inexpensive fixes can show that your property is well-maintained and ready for inspection.

4. Prepare the Exterior of Your Home

The exterior of your home plays an important role in the home inspection process. A well-maintained exterior prevents issues from being overlooked and helps you avoid major repairs down the line. Here’s how to get your exterior ready:

• Trim landscaping: Trim trees, bushes, and shrubs to ensure easy access to the roof, foundation, and siding.
  
  

• Clean gutters: Blocked gutters can lead to water damage, so it’s essential to clear them before the inspection.
  
  

• Inspect the roof: If possible, ensure that your roof is clear of debris or branches. If the inspector needs to check the roof, having it accessible will save time.
  
  

By preparing the outside of your home, you’re reducing the risk of discovering exterior issues that could affect the sale or overall condition of your property.

5. Secure Pets and Personal Belongings

Home inspections often require the inspector to access areas like the attic, basement, or crawl spaces, which can be unfamiliar and sometimes dangerous. To make the process smoother:

• Secure pets: If you have pets, make sure they’re safely contained during the inspection. This keeps them from being stressed or distracting the inspector.
  
  

• Safety precautions: Remove any tripping hazards such as loose rugs or clutter, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways or stairs. This makes it easier for the inspector to navigate your home safely.
  
  

6. Be Prepared to Answer Questions

A professional home inspector may have questions about your home’s systems, past repairs, or general maintenance. Being prepared for these questions ensures the inspection goes smoothly and helps the inspector provide an accurate assessment.

• Have documentation ready: If you’ve had major repairs, renovations, or upgrades done to your home, provide any available records to the inspector. This includes receipts, warranties, and contracts.
  
  

• Be open about concerns: If you’ve noticed any issues in the house, like cracks in the walls, water damage, or electrical problems, don’t hesitate to point them out to the inspector. This helps them focus on specific areas that may need more attention.
  
  

7. Plan for the Inspection Day

To ensure a seamless home inspection experience, make sure you’re ready for the day itself:

• Be available: While you don’t need to be present, it’s a good idea to be reachable in case the inspector needs any clarifications.
  
  

• DO a walkthrough with the inspector while they are onsite!