Inspection Tips for Buyers and Sellers

If you’ve never been party to a home inspection, either as a buyer or a seller, here are a few tips to help the process along and ensure that things go as smoothly as possible.

Attending an inspection…

• Allow approximately three hours on site for a complete and thorough inspection.
• Try not to bring too many people with you to the inspection. Remember, this isn’t your house yet – we are here at the courtesy of the vendor.

Preparing your current home to be inspected…

• Budget approximately three hours for your purchaser and their inspector to be in your home.
• Avoid interfering with or distracting the inspector if you plan to be home.
• Ensure that you have provided the inspector with clear access to:
  • the furnace
  • water heater and shutoff
  • electrical panel
  • air conditioner
  • attic hatch (clear shelves in closet if necessary, etc.)
• Ensure that there are no locked or obstructed doors.
• If the garage is equipped with an automatic opener, please ensure that a remote is available if required for access.
• You may also wish to ensure that personal and private items are properly put away. Remember, a home inspector will be checking closets and cupboards (but not drawers).