10 Tips to Ace Your Next Home Inspection

Phone: 252-670-8599

When you’re about to sell your home, the home inspection process can be nerve-wracking. If your home fails to pass the inspection, buyers can renegotiate prices or even back out of the sale altogether. Our team doesn’t want you to fail, which is why we’ve compiled a list of 10 tips to help you pass your next home inspection with flying colors.

Tip 1: Provide open access to areas that need to be checked.

Before the home inspector arrives, make sure that they have access to all the areas that will be checked. For example, make sure that all of the dishes are out of the sink so the garbage disposal can be checked. Inspectors should be able to maneuver with ease around your home. The easier it is to access everything that needs to be checked, the less time it will take to complete the inspection.

Tip 2: Clear the perimeter.

The inspector will also have to check the exterior of your home, so make sure it can be accessed. They will be checking things like the siding, trims, and caulking around windows. You can make it easier for the inspector to gain access to these by moving trash cans and pruning branches.

Tip 3: Replace any bulbs that are out.

This one seems simple, but many people forget to check their lightbulbs before an inspection! If a lightbulb doesn’t work, it can lead the inspector to believe that there is an electrical issue. Go room by room and check each light to ensure they are all working properly and replace the ones that aren’t.

Tip 4: Make sure your breakers are labeled.

Organization is key here! A disorganized fuse box can lead to frustration for homeowners and inspectors. Save time on your inspection by double checking that your fuse box is labeled correctly and fixing those that are not.

Tip 5: Make sure your toilets are functioning properly.

Do your toilets run longer than they should? Have you even noticed? This one isn’t always easily detected but can be a red flag to your home inspector. Most of the time, issues with a toilet are fairly inexpensive and can be fixed with a quick trip to your local hardware store.

Tip 6: Put in a fresh furnace return filter.

A clean furnace return filter is important for good air quality and the health of your HVAC system. Make sure you check your filters and replace as needed before your inspection. This shows the inspector that you pay attention to detail and care about your home’s heating and air.

Tip 7: Check your doors.

Do you have faulty locks? Maybe you find yourself having difficulty closing some of your doors? Interior and exterior doors should be latching into the frame without any issues. Doorknobs should be secure, and locks (especially those that lead outside) should be functioning properly. Be sure to check all doors, including those that you don’t use often.

Tip 8: Repair faulty cabinets.

Cabinets should sit securely on its hinges and close with ease. Loose hinges are easily spotted and can be avoided. This issue can be quickly solved by using a screwdriver to tighten any loose hinges. Go room by room and check each cabinet to ensure they are all sitting and opening correctly.

Tip 9: Look for leaks and water damage.

Inspectors will be looking for leaks and any signs of water damage. Make sure you beat them to it! Check all of your water sources, such as faucets, dishwashers, and washing machines for potential leaks. Be sure to also check underneath and around water sources for damage. You can look and places like under the sink and the floor underneath and surrounding other water sources. Keep any eye out for any warping or mold that could follow sitting water.

Tip 10: Take care of any bug problems.

This should come so a surprise to no one, but bugs can be a huge turn-off for homebuyers. Inspectors will notice any ant hills outside or dead bugs inside your home. You can avoid this by checking both the interior and exterior of your home for bugs. Knock wasp nests and spider webs off your porch, get rid of ant hills in your lawn, and call an exterminator for any larger but issues.

Our team here at Coastal Property Inspections doesn’t want you to fail your next home inspection! We’re here to provide you with the resources you need to pass your inspection with flying colors. Whether you’re preparing for or scheduling an inspection, Coastal Property Inspections provides quality home and building inspections.

Contact us to get started today.

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