Preparing for a Home Inspection
A visit from a home inspector is inevitable when selling a home. Know your home and be mindful of all its serious issues (if any).
Below is a list of steps to ensure that the selling and home inspection process run smoothly.
1. Ensure that past home renovations have not damaged the structure of the home. Look for structural damages caused by termites, if settling of the home over time has caused damage to the foundation, and/or whether support beams and joists are strong and sturdy or damaged.
2. Ensure that the electrical and wiring systems are safe and acceptable. Loose wires or incorrectly installed wire receptacles, switches or electrical box problems are hazardous and should be corrected immediately. All homes should have a minimum of 100 amp service.
3. Ensure there are no evident leaks. Water can run into odd and unexpected places causing extensive damage over time. If there are signs of water leakage, they can be spotted by examining the underside of sinks and dishwashers, along ceilings, on floors or along basement walls. Plumbing fixtures, water-using appliances, drain pipes, water supply inlets and outlets and basements and roofs can all be causes and sources of water damage.
4. Ensure that safety issues are resolved in your home. Trim foliage, which may impair a safe view of the area around the home. Ensure that windows open/close without hassle and can be securely locked as well as the entrances and exits. Hazards such as hidden curbs, loose railings and/or stairs, unused wells, which are not capped, etc., should be corrected.
5. With respect to plumbing, ensure that all fixtures are in good working and free from large cracks. Faucets should run easily and shut off completely. Proper grouting and caulking should be present around bathtubs; toilets and other fixtures should be bolted down securely. Drains should be clog free. The home's water heater should be in good working condition.
6. All heating and cooling systems may have to be checked to ensure they are relatively up to date, clean, in good working condition and have clean filters. Refrigerant should be checked in any air conditioning units and may require proper servicing.
7. Also, a general, unbiased overview of your home by a neighbor or friend may reveal matters which need to be dealt with that you may have overlooked.
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