Selling your home is an exciting milestone, but before you close the deal, you need to successfully navigate the home inspection process. Whether you’re in the middle of a real estate transaction or preparing for one, it’s essential to understand how to prepare for a home inspection to ensure everything goes smoothly.

A home inspection is a critical step in the real estate process. It’s a thorough evaluation of the property’s condition, covering key areas such as the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical system, HVAC, and overall structural integrity. The home inspector will also check for signs of water damage, mold, or other potential issues that could impact the buyer’s decision.

As a seller, your goal is to make sure the home inspection reveals minimal or no major issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your home for inspection.

1. Keep Your Home Clean and Tidy

While cleanliness may not impact the inspection directly, a cluttered or dirty home can raise questions about the condition of the property. Ensure your home is spotless, making it easy for the inspector to access all areas, including crawl spaces, attics, and under sinks.

2. Provide Clear Access to Key Areas

Make sure the home inspector can easily access important areas such as the attic, basement, crawl space, water heater, air conditioning units, and electrical panels. Move any items that could obstruct access to these areas. Restricted access may lead to missed inspection points, which could raise concerns for potential buyers.

3. Clear the Exterior and Perimeter

The inspector will evaluate the exterior of your home, including the siding, windows, and foundation. Trim back any overgrown plants, remove stored items, and clear the area around your home to allow for a thorough inspection. The inspector won’t move items, so make sure all exterior areas are easily accessible.

4. Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs

Inspectors will test lighting fixtures during the home inspection. A non-working bulb can create confusion, leading the inspector to question whether the issue is simply a burned-out bulb or a more serious electrical problem. To avoid unnecessary delays, replace any burned-out light bulbs before the inspection.

5. Fix Any Running Toilets

A running toilet is an easily fixable issue that can be identified during a home inspection. It’s best to address this problem beforehand to avoid raising concerns about your plumbing system’s condition. A simple adjustment or replacement of the toilet valve will suffice.

6. Replace the Air Filter in the HVAC System

A clogged or dirty air filter in the HVAC system can give the impression that the system hasn’t been properly maintained. Replacing the air filter before the inspection demonstrates that you care for the home’s systems and can help the HVAC function more efficiently.

7. Turn On Pilot Lights

If your home has gas-powered appliances like a fireplace or water heater, ensure the pilot lights are on. Inspectors will not light them, and the lack of a lit pilot can raise questions about the functionality of your systems.

8. Label the Circuit Breaker Panel

Ensure that your circuit breaker panel is clearly labeled, with all switches easily identifiable. If the panel is confusing or the labels are illegible, the inspector may note it as a deficiency. A few minutes spent relabeling can eliminate this concern.

9. Check All Doors

Test all doors to make sure they open, close, and latch properly. Doorknobs should be securely attached, and locks should function correctly. Be sure to check all interior and exterior doors, including any that you rarely use, and ensure that at least one door can be opened without a key from the inside.

10. Repair Loose Cabinet Hinges and Handles

Small details, like loose cabinet hinges and handles, may seem insignificant, but they can reflect poorly on the overall condition of the home. Tighten any loose hinges or handles before the inspection to ensure everything is in good working order.

11. Check for Leaks and Water Damage

Inspect your home for any signs of leaks or water damage. Look under sinks, around toilets, showers, bathtubs, and appliances. Also, examine walls, ceilings, and floors for stains, warping, or mold. If you spot any leaks, address them before the inspector arrives.

12. Inspect the Roof

The roof is a critical part of the inspection. Climb a ladder and check for damaged shingles, debris in the gutters, or other issues. Clean the gutters, check the downspouts, and make sure everything is properly maintained. If you find roof damage, address it before the inspection.

13. Treat Pest Problems

If you have any pest issues, such as termites or a wasp nest, take care of them before the inspection. Termite damage can be a dealbreaker for many buyers, so it’s worth hiring a pest control professional to address the issue and repair any resulting damage.

14. Be Prepared for Inspection Day

On the day of the inspection, take the following steps to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Keep all utilities on and ensure there is clear access to all areas of the house.
• Unlock any gates, electrical boxes, or other areas that are typically secured.
• Plan to vacate the home during the inspection, and take any pets with you. If you can’t, make sure pets are safely crated.
• Be ready at least two hours before the inspector arrives, as they may arrive early.

15. What Happens After the Inspection?

After the inspection, take a deep breath. It’s normal for minor issues to be noted, but most buyers are not expecting a flawless home. They just want to know that there are no hidden, costly repairs. If the inspector finds major issues, it’s better to address them ahead of time.

To avoid surprises, consider scheduling a pre-sale inspection. A pre-sale inspection allows you to address any potential problems before buyers see them. At Stellar Inspectors, we specialize in pre-sale inspections to help you identify and resolve issues before the buyer’s inspection. Taking care of repairs upfront can save you money and give you control over the process.