Inspection Preparation Checklist
Use this checklist to get your property ready for inspection by a certified inspector from Top Notch Property Inspections.

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.”
Schedule a Top Notch inspection
For more information, contact us about Top Notch Property Inspections services.
Phone: (208) 810-3939
Email: mike@topnotchinspecting.com