
Pre-Inspection Tips
Taking the time to do your own pre-inspection can reduce the chance of last minute
surprises and expenses. Many of these items may be taken care of with little or no cost. If the house is vacant, be sure all utilities are turned on.
Exterior:
- Remove
grade or mulch from contact with siding (preferably 6 or more inches of clearance).
- Clean
out dirty gutters or debris from the roof.
- Divert
all water away from house, i.e. downspouts, sump pump, condensation drain, etc. Grade should slope away from the structure.
- Remove
rotting wood and firewood from contact with house.
- Caulk
all exterior wall penetrations.
- Remove
grade from contact with foundation vents.
- Trim
trees, roots and bushes back from foundation, roof, siding, and chimney.
- Paint
all weathered exterior wood. Caulk around trim, chimneys, windows and doors.
- Seal
asphalt driveways if cracking.
- Clean
and service chimney/fireplace. (Keep a copy of your receipt for the buyer.)
- Seal
or point-up masonry chimney caps. Install metal flue cap.
- Re-point
any failing mortar joints in brick or block.
Interior
- Put
all windows and doors in proper operating condition (including repairing any non-functioning locks and cracked windows).
- Test all smoke detectors. Install carbon monoxide detectors
if needed.
- Check that bath vents are properly vented to the exterior of the house (not into the attic).
Attic
- Update
attic ventilation if none is present.
- Have clear access to all attic, crawlspace, heat systems, garage and other areas that will
need to be inspected.
Heating/Air Conditioning
- Have
heating/air conditioning system serviced by a professional. (Keep a copy of your receipt for the buyer.)
- Clean
or replace air conditioning filter. Clean dirty air returns and plenum.
- Place
peroxide in sump pump or condensate drain to reduce odors and bacteria.
Electrical
- Install
GFCI receptacles near all appropriate areas. Test all existing GFCI receptacles for proper operation.
- Replace
any burned out light bulbs.
Plumbing
- Ensure all
plumbing fixtures (toilet, tub, shower, sinks) are in proper working condition. Look for any visible leaks.
- Check
that toilets are secured to floor.
- Caulk
all tub/shower fixtures.
- Caulk
along tub (floor, walls, shower/glass doors).
Above all, don't
do quick, cheap repairs, i.e. giant caulk repairs. (This is a clue that will tend to make the inspector take
a closer look.)
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