Preparing a House for a Home Inspection

1. Ensure that the utilities are on. (If they have been off, do not turn the water main on until someone is there).
2. Secure pets. Indoor cats and dogs should be crated, so the inspector and the buyers can easily move through out the house without fearing the animal will get lost or injured. (This is also less stressful to the pets) Outside pets should be secured so the inspector can inspect All exterior areas without being in contact with the animal.
3. Access to the electric power panel should be clear of all storage items and furniture. If the panel has been enclosed or altered, it should be made accessible again.
4. The access to the furnace and water heater should be clear of all obstructions, storage and furnishings for inspection.
5. Unusual locations for access to crawl spaces and attics should be noted to the inspector.
6. Attic accesses should be cleared of obstructions. If it is in a closet, all items should be removed and shelves taken down to allow access.
7. All obstructions to a crawl space access should be moved to allow clear entry.
8. Basement walls and floors should be accessible for inspection. Shelves, storage, and floor coverings should not impede the inspection of these areas.
9. Windows should be clear of decorations and blinds should be up to allow the inspector to operate the windows.
10. Doors should not be blocked to allow the operation of the doors by the inspector.
11. Kitchen and bathroom sinks should be cleared of any obstructions that would impede the inspection to include filling them with water.
    

Remember, the inspector is there to inspect the home and its components to include issues dealing with Fire, Safety, Health, Structural, and Mechanical elements in the home. The house does not need to be “on display” as it was for the buyer to walk through when the offer was made. Areas need to be accessible. The inability of an inspector to access any area of the home may delay a closing.