What will a home inspector be looking at and how you can prepare for a home inspection? The below listing may be helpful in preparing for a home inspection. Many of these items can be done with little or no cost and many are regular maintenance items for a home.

  1. Remove grade or mulch from contact with siding. Six (6) or more inches of clearance is preferred.
  2. Clean out dirty gutters or debris from the roof.
  3. Divert all water away from the house; i.e. downspouts, condensation drains, etc. Grade should slope away from the structure.
  4. Trim trees, roots and bushes back from the foundation, roof and siding/stucco.
  5. Paint all weathered exterior wood and caulk around the trim, windows and doors.
  6. Seal asphalt driveways, if cracking.
  7. Seal or point up masonry chimney caps. Install metal fluecap.
  8. Clean or replace HVAC filter. Clean dirty air returns and plenum.
  9. Point up any failing mortar joints in brick or block.
  10. Test all smoke detectors to ensure they are in safe working condition.
  11. Update attic ventilation if none is present.
  12. Knock out plugs should be installed in openings at the main electrical panel cover.
  13. Don’t do quick cheap repairs. You may raise questions that will unfairly cause great concern to buyers and inspectors.
  14. Ensure that all doors and windows are in proper operating condition, including repairing or replacing any cracked window panes.
  15. Ensure that all plumbing fixtures (toilet, tub, shower, and sinks) are in proper working condition. Check for and fix leaks. Caulk around fixtures if necessary.
  16. Install GFCI receptacles near all water sources. Test all present GFCI receptacles for proper operation.
  17. Replace any burned out light bulbs.
  18. Remove rotting wood/mulch from contact with the house.
  19. Remove personal items away from inspection areas.
  20. Install proper vapor barrier in crawlspaces.
  21. Caulk all exterior wall penetrations.
  22. Check to ensure that the crawlspace is dry and install a proper vapor barrier if necessary. Remove any visible moisture from a crawlspace. Moisture levels in wood should be below 18% to deter rot and mildew.
  23. Check that bath vents are properly vented ( to the exterior ) and in working condition.
  24. Remove paints, solvents, gas, etc., from crawlspace, attic, lanai etc.
  25. If windows are at or below grade, install window wells and covers.
  26. Have clear access to attic, crawlspace, heating system, electric panel, water heater, under sinks ( plumbing ), garage and other areas that will need to be inspected.
  27. If the house is vacant, make sure that all utilities are turned on, including water, electric, water heater, HVAC, and breakers in the main electric panel.