The home inspection process: what every seller should know
The buyer's inspection does not have to be stressful. A prepared home makes inspection day go smoothly, keeps the report clean, and keeps your closing on track. Here is how to get ready.
What to expect when the inspector arrives
How long does it take?
Home inspections typically last 2 to 3 hours.
This time varies depending on type of home, age, size, and services requested by the buyer.
We arrive early
Typically, a home inspector will arrive early to start on the exterior and make initial observations before anyone else arrives.
Do not be present
The home inspection is not something that you should be present for. Make arrangements to be off the property for the entire 2 to 3 hour duration.
We will find issues
It is our job to find potential issues. We are not hired to judge or criticize your home, only to provide an unbiased observation.
Not everything is an issue
Although the home inspector will find many things, it is important to only focus on what the buyer is concerned with.
Not a code inspection
A home inspection is not a code compliance inspection. We are unable to verify if DIY projects are up to code.
Ten ways to prep for a smooth inspection
1. Utilities: ON
A home inspector will not turn on a utility if it is off, and will not diagnose why it may be off.
Ensure that pilots are lit, breakers are on, and gas valves are open.2. Complete the condition report
The condition report is often overlooked or left blank. Fill it out to the best of your ability to avoid surprises during the home inspection.
3. Inform the inspector
Make the inspector aware of any active issues or components that are broken or not working. We do not want to operate a faucet if it is going to spray all over the room.
4. Unlock doors & gates
We need access to every part of the home. If we cannot get in, we cannot inspect.
5. Remove interior clutter
Inspectors perform a visual inspection. If we cannot see or access something, we cannot inspect it.
Clear any items around: basement walls, electrical panels, sump pumps, attic panels, furnace, water heater, water shut off, and crawl spaces.6. Remove exterior clutter
Similar to the interior, we need access to all parts of the exterior of your home.
This includes access to: garage, shed, other outbuildings, siding, and grading.7. Turn off alarms, remove pets
We will be inspecting all portions of the property; make sure there are no armed security systems. Arrange for pets to be caged or off-premises during the entire inspection.
8. Leave receipts out
It is a good idea to leave receipts and repair invoices out in plain sight for the buyer to see. This indicates that the home was properly cared for.
9. Fix the little things
Replace burned out light bulbs, install broken outlet covers, and handle the other small items before inspection day. Clean as if you are expecting company.
10. Remove valuables
Items such as firearms, prescriptions, and valuables should not be in the home during an inspection. All personal belongings should be removed.
Trust the process
The post-home inspection resolution process is there for a reason. Work with your agent and the buyer to gain understanding of the issue, agree on resolution, and move forward with closing. Smart sellers also set aside a dollar amount at the time of listing specifically for potential repairs, so nothing derails the deal.
Want zero surprises? Inspect before you list.
A pre-listing inspection finds the issues before the buyer's inspector does, so you can fix or disclose on your terms.
Questions about the inspection on your home?
Our full-time office staff is available 24/7 to walk you through what to expect.