Seller Tips
Preparing for a home inspection
A do-it-yourself checklist for sellers
Consider a few steps you can take on your own to ensure a smooth inspection. If there’s anything on the list that’s above your DIY comfort level, consider calling in an expert.
Download and print the checklist for handy reference!
1. Clean and declutter inspection access points
- Clean furnace filter
- Clean stove and oven
- Empty storage from attic
- Organize any closets that are access points to your attic or crawl space
- Clear at least 4 to 6 inches of space around the perimeter of your home’s exterior
2. Test functionality of the items a home inspector will check
- Open and close windows and test locks and seals
- Flush all toilets and run all faucets
- Run any ceiling or bathroom fans
- Try all light switches
- Open and close garage doors manually and with the remote, then test the reverse safety setting
- Confirm weather stripping on doors is intact
- Ensure that downspouts are properly diverting water away from the home
- Check to make sure heating ducts are connected in crawl space
- Check that fan ducts are properly venting out of the attic
3. Take basic safety and security precautions
- Replace batteries in smoke detectors
- Test carbon monoxide detector
- Have a fire extinguisher available
- Cap gas lines or chimney entry points
- Exterminate bugs or rodents
4. Make necessary repairs to the property
- Replace light bulbs
- Re-caulk around bathtubs and sinks
- Repair any water damage in bathrooms
- Remove any drain clogs
- Update any dingy grout
- Replace torn screens and cracked windows
- Replace any missing roofing
- Replace damaged insulation in attic and crawl space
- Cover crawl space with 6 mm plastic sheeting
5. Complete exterior home improvements
- Sweep debris off the roof (or pressure wash if needed)
- Trim trees that are near or hanging over the roof line
- Clean out gutters
- Clear debris from around the A/C compressor, downspout drainage, and foundation vents
- Slope soil away from the home for water runoff
6. Make last-minute preparations for your inspection
- Plan to leave your home an hour early
- Take pets with you
- Leave remotes for garage door, ceiling fans, lights, etc.
- Leave keys for gates, outbuildings, and electrical boxes
- Turn on pilot light for gas-fired appliances, including the water heater
- Make sure all utilities are on
- Take laundry out of the washer and dryer
- Remove dishes from the sink and dishwasher
- Leave a sketch identifying the location of a well or septic tank
- Leave paperwork for any maintenance, repairs, or insurance claims
Quick Link
Download the checklist
Print a copy of the home inspection checklist to ensure you’re ready on the big day!