Preparing for a home inspection…

The following page is provided courtesy of Building Specs, Inc.

Many of these items may be taken care of with little or no cost. Some of these items will indicate to the home inspector and buyer that the house has been well maintained.

1. Remove mulch from contact with siding. Preferably 6” or more of clearance.
2. Clean out dirty gutters and debris from the roof.
3. Divert water away from house—downspouts, sump pump, etc.
4. Grade should slope away from house. Clean out basement entry drains.
5. Trim trees, roots and bushes back from the house.
6. Paint all weathered exterior wood and caulk around trim, chimneys, windows and doors.
7. Seal asphalt driveway if cracking.
8. Seal or point up masonry chimney caps. Install metal flue cap.
9. Clean or replace HVAC (furnace) filter. Clean dirty air returns.
10. Point up any failing mortar joints in brick or block.
11. Test all smoke detectors.
12. Update attic ventilation if none is present.
13. Clean chimney, fireplace or woodstove. Keep the receipt.
14. Seal masonry walls in basement.
15. Don’t do quick cheap repairs like giant sloppy caulk repairs. This will clue the inspector in that an amateur has been working on the house.
16. Get all windows and doors in proper operating condition.
17. Put all plumbing fixtures in proper working order. Check for leaks.
18. Install GFCI receptacles near water sources.
19. Check sump pump for proper working order.
20. Replace any burned out light bulbs.
21. Remove firewood from in contact with house.
22. Make sure the grade under the deck slopes away from the house.
23. Install a vapor barrier in the crawlspace.
24. Caulk all exterior wall penetrations.
25. Caulk all tub and shower fixtures.
26. Remove any visible moisture from the crawlspace.
27. Check that bath vents are properly vented.
    Remove paints, solvents, gas, etc from the property.
28. Check that toilets are properly secured to the floor.
29. Install window wells and covers where appropriate.
30. Remove grade from contact with foundation vents.
31. Have clear access to all attic, crawlspace, heat systems, garage and other areas that will be inspected.

If the house is vacant, be sure all utilities are turned on:

• Water
• Electric
• Water Heater
• Furnace/Air Conditioning
• Breakers in main panel

You may consider having your house pre-inspected by a reputable home inspection company. Having a pre-sale inspection may reduce the chance of last minute surprises and expenses.