When you’re selling your home, you’ll need to keep it clean and tidy and make sure the property is well-maintained. Your buyer will order an inspection of the house and you’ll want to be ready. Here are a few things to do to prepare for a home inspection.
1. Prepare for a Home Inspection by Turning All Utilities On
If you have already moved out, make sure the power and water are turned on for the inspector. If your appliances, water heater, or house heating system use natural gas, verify that the gas is on and any pilot lights are lit.
2. Clear a Path
If you are packing boxes, move them out of the way or put them in storage before the inspector arrives. Placing them in the center of the room, on the bed, or on the couch is acceptable too. Keep anything the inspector needs to inspect easily accessed. It is not the responsibility of the inspector to move things that may be blocking the way.
3. Unlock Everything
All of the doors inside and out should be unlocked or a key provided for the inspector. Other items that need to be opened and operational include the attic access, crawlspaces, hatches, and any gates. To prepare for the home inspection, test any locks and if necessary, spray the internal workings with a lubricant.
4. Make Sure the Home is Well Lit
Replace any dead light bulbs. If they are dead the inspector won’t be able to tell if the fixture is faulty or it is just a burned-out bulb. Prior to the inspection, open any window coverings to let in as much natural light as possible.
5. Clean Under Sinks to Prepare for a Home Inspection
The inspector will look under sinks to check for signs of water damage. To prepare for a home inspection, clean out the cabinets. Place any items that you are still using in small plastic totes or on trays. This way you can quickly pull them out of the way.
6. Label the Electrical Panel
To prepare for the inspection, open the electrical panel and confirm that each switch has a label. If any of the labels are faded or missing, replace them. If possible, use a label maker to make it clear what breaker belongs to which circuit. If you have neat handwriting, use a permanent marker and write the coordinating room on the panel.
7. Crate Pets to Prepare for a Home Inspection
If you have indoor animals, put them in a crate or a pet carrier. Another option is to remove pets from the home during the inspection. The inspector will be walking in and out of the home and you want everyone to be safe.
Clarity Home Inspections offers home inspection services to buyers and sellers. Contact us to schedule an inspection for your home on Vancouver Island.