If you’re in the process of selling your home, then you know it’s important to make a good impression. What can help with this is a positive home inspection, but we know that the process can be distressing to some. However, there are precautions you can take to reduce negative comments in the inspection report, and help guarantee a complimentary inspection.
Make sure the home is clean
Give the house a good cleaning, since a dirty or unkempt property will give the impression of poor maintenance. Make sure the furnace filter and air returns are clean. For fireplaces, chimneys and wood stoves, hire a professional to clean them out. Ensure access points to crawlspaces, the attic, garage and basements are unobstructed.
Make repairs
Here are some repairs you should make prior to the inspection. The repair jobs should be done correctly without cutting any corners, or you will attract the inspector’s attention and questions will be raised about the home.
- Bathroom ventilation systems should be functional.
- Doors and windows should open and close without any problems. Crack glass panes or panels, and damaged or torn screens should be replaced.
- All tubs, faucets, toilets and sinks should work correctly. Replace caulk in bathrooms in kitchens if needed.
- Masonry walls in the basement should be sealed.
- Test and install new batteries in all smoke detectors.
- Electrical outlets near sinks and faucets should be GFCI rated.
- If you have a sump pump, ensure it’s in proper working order.
- Install window wells and covers if not already in place.
- Replace any burnt out light bulbs.
Prepare crawlspaces
The inspector will need to investigate all crawlspaces, so make the following preparations:
- Make sure all are dry, and remove any and all moisture.
- Install a vapor barrier if necessary.
Outside repairs
Here are some of the outdoor repairs you should undertake to help improve the possibilities for a good report:
- Have at least six inches of clearance between the siding and grade or mulch.
- If you have a chimney, install metal flue caps and seal any chimney caps.
- Clean out the gutters.
- Seal any cracks in an asphalt driveway.
- Remove all debris from the roof.
- Make sure grading has all water flowing away from the house.
- If there is any exterior wood that’s weather, be sure to pain it.
- Remove any and all rotting wood or firewood touching the house.
- Make sure proper grading is under your deck.
- Properly seal/caulk all exterior wall penetrations.
- Repair broken mortar.
Have questions or concerns? Give us a call at (952) 854-5110.
The knowledge, skill and experience required to follow these “tips” varies; if you are in doubt as to your ability to properly and safely implement these suggestions, call a qualified professional first. Every home appliance and system is different as are the problems that can affect them. Accordingly, the above-referenced tips are meant only as suggestions to be considered for the listed problems. AmeriSpec cannot be responsible for any damages arising from any actions taken pursuant to tips provided herein. This list is not exhaustive and other remedies may be needed in addition to those listed above.
