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).