Sellers can speed their home inspection by following these
suggestions. The inspection will go smoother, with fewer concerns to delay
closing.
- Confirm that water, electric and gas service are on, with gas
pilot lights burning.
- Ensure pets won't hinder the inspection. Ideally, they should
be removed from premises or secured outside. Tell your agent about any pets at
home.
- Replace burned out bulbs to avoid a "Light is inoperable"
report that may suggest an electrical problem.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead
batteries.
- Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters. They should fit
securely.
- Remove stored items, debris and wood from foundation. These may
be cited as "conducive conditions" for termites.
- Remove items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electric
service panels, water heaters, attics and crawl spaces.
- Unlock areas the inspector must access - attic doors or
hatches, electric service panels, closets, fence gates and crawl
spaces.
- Trim tree limbs to 10' from the roof and shrubs from the house
to allow access.
- Attend to broken or missing items like doorknobs, locks and
latches; windowpanes, screens and locks; gutters, downspouts and chimney
caps.
Checking these areas before your home inspection is an
investment in selling your property. Your real estate agent will thank
you!