Checklist to Prepare your House
for a Home Inspection

The simple repairs listed below are very inexpensive and some cases cost nothing. However, these are the most common defects we find during a Home Inspection. By following this list, you will save yourself and your client time, money and aggravation.

• If your house is vacant, be sure all utilities and pilot lights are turned on.
• Provide access to the furnace, water heater and electrical panel.
• Provide access to attic and crawlspace entrances. These are commonly inside closets and blocked.
• Have clear access to all attic, crawlspace, garage and other areas that will need to be inspected. If there is a dog, make arrangements ahead of time.
• Clean out dirty gutters or debris from the roof.
• Divert all water away from house, i.e. downspouts, sump pump, condensation drain, etc. Soil should slope away from structure.
• Trim trees, roots and bushes back from foundation, roof, siding, and chimney.
• Paint all weathered exterior wood, and caulk around trim, chimneys, windows and doors.
• Ensure that windows operate smoothly. If some are stuck or painted shut, the impression will be that many windows cannot open. Also, remove window security screws or provide keys for window security locks.
• Clean or replace HVAC filter.
• Put all plumbing fixtures, toilet, tub, shower, sinks, in proper working condition. Look for any visible leaks.
• Be sure that there is a minimum of one functional smoke detector per bedroom and adjacent hallway.
• Install GFCI electrical outlets near all appropriate areas and test them for proper operation.
• Make sure all interior and exterior light fixtures work. If an outdoor fixture bulb is out, the inspector has to note that the fixture does not correctly operate.
• Caulk along tub/floor, tub/walls, tub/shower/glass doors.
• Check that toilets are secure to floor. **This is a very common problem**
• Check that crawlspace is dry. Are there any plumbing leaks?
• Remove any soil with wood siding on any exterior walls. Preferably 6 or more inches of clearance.
• Seal asphalt driveways if cracking.
• Point up any failing mortar joints in brick or block.
• Clean & service chimney, fireplace, or wood stove (provide a copy for buyer).
• Check that bathroom vents are properly vented in the attic.
• Tighten all doorknobs and tighten or repair all handrails. Also check to be sure that all interior doors will latch to the strike plate.
• Provide keys or unlock garages.
• Adjust the downward pressure of the automatic garage door opener. It should reverse when it encounters gentle pressure from your outstretched arms. If it pushes your arms down, the pressure needs to be reduced.

Important Note: Don't do quick cheap repairs, i.e. (giant caulk repairs) this will clue in an Inspector that amateur

work has been done and will tend to make him/her look closer at the house.

Home Inspection Services In the Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties