Inspection Preparation Checklist

General Preparation for All Inspections

❏ Leave remotes available (ceiling fans, gas fireplaces, garage doors, etc.)

❏ Ensure that main shut-off valves are not concealed (water, electric panels, gas, etc.)

❏ Remove personal items from dishwashers and washing machines

❏ Ensure readily accessible access to attics, crawlspaces, etc.

❏ Leave utility services on (water, electric, gas)

❏ Keep the home closed for at least 12 hours prior to a radon test (all windows/exterior doors remain closed except for normal entry/exit of the home)

❏ Leave instructions for operation of gas fireplaces

❏ Leave keys for outbuildings to be inspected (detached garage, shed, etc.)

❏ Plan to be away from the home for 3 to 4 hours during the inspection

❏ Arrange for pets to be away from the home

❏ Leave paperwork for any recent maintenance or repair work

❏ Leave your mobile phone number for questions that may arise

 

Basic Maintenance Items

❏ Clean windows

❏ Replace burnt-out lightbulbs

❏ Replace furnace filter(s)

❏ Tighten and/or repair loose cabinet handles and hinges, as needed

❏ Empty or organize storage areas for visible access

❏ Check smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors

❏ Check all doors and windows to ensure they open, close and latch securely and remove any decorations to allow for testing

❏ Clean out gutters, as needed

❏ Leave exterior hose bibs on (except in winter)

❏ Trim plants and bushes away from structure (at least 1 foot from home)

❏ Test GFCI and AFCI receptacles and breakers

 

DIY/Handyman Repairs

❏ Add downspout extensions to drain 10 feet from structure, as needed

❏ Caulk around windows and doors, as needed

❏ Caulk kitchen and bathroom fixtures, as needed

❏ Replace missing or broken outlet, receptacle and junction box cover plates

❏ Repair damaged window or door screens

❏ Replace weather stripping on exterior doors, as needed

 

Additional Services/Repairs

❏ Contract for HVAC systems to be cleaned, serviced and certified by a qualified HVAC technician (or provide record of certification within the last year)

❏ Clear clogged drains

❏ Repair or replace loose deck boards

❏ Repair or replace loose handrails

❏ Repair or replace loose, fallen or missing insulation in attics, crawl spaces, basements, etc.

 

Professional Repairs

❏ Paint or stain exterior areas of the home, as needed (siding, decks, trim, fascia, soffits, etc.)

❏ Repair loose (or leaking) toilets

❏ Repair leaking plumbing pipes or fixtures

❏ Repair cracks, holes or nail pops in walls and ceilings

❏ Repair minor roof areas, such as nail pops, loose or missing shingles, etc.

❏ Repair or replace damaged windows, doors or cabinets

 

This checklist identifies areas commonly inspected during a home inspection. If items on this list are outside of your comfort zone, we recommend you hire a qualified professional for repairs or leave areas “as is.”