Preparing for Your Home Inspection
If you are interested in an Energy Audit Inspection, please visit our Energy Audit page for home preparation guidelines.
Buyer Preparation
There is little a buyer needs to do to prepare for a home inspection, but some preparation will ensure the home inspection is as productive as possible.
If the property is an REO (Bank Owned property):
Make sure that we are able to enter the property. Have the MLS # handy, our inspectors have Supra Key Access. Additionally, Make sure the following utilities are turned on prior to inspection:
- Electricity
- Water
- Gas
We will need to test the HVAC systems, plumbing, appliances, faucets, electrical systems and more. Without utilities, required testing cannot be done. The result is an incomplete inspection. Incomplete inspections will delay the release of the home inspection contingency clause, which, in turn, will delay closing.
Seller Preparation
The majority of a home inspection preparation rests on the seller.
1) Keep Utilities Connected:
If the property is unoccupied, be sure all the electricity, gas, and water are connected. We will need to test the HVAC systems, plumbing, appliances, faucets, electrical systems and more. Without utilities, required testing cannot be done. The result is an incomplete inspection. Incomplete inspections will delay the release of the home inspection contingency clause, which, in turn, will delay closing.
2) Thoroughly Clean the House:
It may seem obvious, but cleaning is often overlooked before an inspection.
3) Have the Home Ready on Time:
Have the home prepared half an hour prior to the scheduled inspection. Our inspectors have a schedule to keep and prefer to start their scheduled appointment on time. Depending on the size, age, and type of inspection, inspections can take up to four hours.
4) Leave Keys and Turn Off Home Alarm System:
Leave keys to all locked utility boxes and doors. Inaccessible systems are cause for incomplete inspections and delays. Arrange a place for the inspector to find the keys, or provide them ahead of time.
5) Keep Pilot Lights Lit:
For liability reasons, Innovative Inspections will not light pilot lights on stoves, furnaces and water heaters. When pilot lights are not lit, inspections are rendered incomplete.
6) Clear Workspace Around Systems:
We need adequate room to access appliances, electrical panels, and heating and cooling units. Remove boxes, stored items and debris from these areas; at least three feet of workspace is recommended.
7) Provide Access to Additional Spaces:
Attics, garages, sheds, and crawlspaces need to be accessible to the home. Clear away any blockages and make sure doors can be opened (unlock if necessary). This includes accessing inspection hatches for bathtubs, water meters and shutoff valves.
8) Remove Appliance Contents:
Dishwashers and washing machines are subject to the home inspection and will be run. Even if an appliance is not included in the sale, we will run your machine to ensure that the plumbing, venting and electrical supplies are in working order.
9) Clear Exterior Clutter and Debris:
Foundations, outside electrical outlets and faucets are a few of the items we will inspect. Remove trash cans, trim branches and brush, dispose of dead limbs and clear an accessible path around the home.
10) Remove Pets:
If possible, take your pets with you or have them boarded elsewhere for the day. At the very least, secure animals in crates, or kennels far away from any area where the inspector will be. Avoid an incomplete inspection, pet loss, or liability resulting from nervous pets.
Your Southern California Home Inspector
As your Southern California Home Inspector, you can be assured that we will always look out for your best interests. Schedule an inspection today!