Items to Check before a Home Inspection

Selling a home can be a stressful time with so much to manage: keeping the house clean, leaving on a moment’s notice to accommodate last-minute showings, and planning an upcoming move. It’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed.

Then you accept a great offer and enter escrow. You feel a wave of relief—until you realize the home inspection is right around the corner. Even meticulously maintained properties can have hidden issues, but the good news is that you can prepare in advance to ensure the inspection goes smoothly.

Items to Check Before a Home Inspection

• Doors, Windows, and Cabinetry: Verify that all doors, windows, cabinets, and drawers open, close, and slide smoothly without sticking.
• Plumbing Fixtures and Drains: Run water in all sinks, tubs, and showers. Snake or clear any drains that run slowly to ensure proper flow.
• Evidence of Water Leaks: Inspect under sinks, around water heaters, and along garage ceilings for signs of moisture, water stains, or active drips.
• GFCI Outlets: Review local code requirements and ensure Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are installed in wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces.
• Safety Detectors: Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they have fresh batteries and are in proper working order.
• Roof and Gutters: Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts, and replace any cracked or missing roof tiles/shingles.
• HVAC System: Schedule a professional HVAC servicing to replace air filters and verify heating and cooling units operate efficiently.
• Water Heater Safety: Ensure your water heater is properly strapped for seismic safety (where required by code) and correctly vented.
• General Deferred Maintenance: Address any neglected repairs—such as loose door handles, missing caulking, or minor electrical issues—before the inspector arrives.

The best defense is a good offense, and that holds true for home inspections. Investing in a professional pre-listing home inspection before putting your property on the market is one of the smartest steps you can take, allowing you to identify and fix issues on your own terms before a buyer uncovers them.