Preparing your home for inspection hinges on decluttering and cleaning, pivotal steps that leave a favourable impression on inspectors and facilitate thorough assessments. Begin by eliminating extraneous items such as personal effects or surplus furniture, minimizing obstacles to inspection. Prioritize clearing spaces like basements, attics, and crawl spaces, guaranteeing unobstructed access. Conduct a comprehensive cleaning regimen following decluttering, targeting commonly overlooked spots like window sills, baseboards, and light fixtures to ensure every corner gleams.
Ensure easy access
During an inspection, the inspector must access various parts of your home, including the roof, attic, and crawl spaces. To facilitate a smooth inspection process:
- Ensure these areas are easily accessible.
- If you have an attic hatch or crawl space entrance, ensure it is clear of any obstructions and is opened easily.
- If your roof requires a ladder for access, have a sturdy, safety-compliant ladder readily available.
Easy access to these areas saves time and demonstrates your commitment to a thorough inspection.
Test functionality
Before the inspector arrives, take the time to test the functionality of your home’s various systems and appliances. This includes checking that all light switches and outlets are working correctly, testing the operation of doors and windows, and ensuring that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is in good working order. Remember to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing dead batteries. Proactively identifying and addressing minor issues prevents them from becoming red flags during the inspection.
Address minor repairs
In addition to testing functionality, they address any minor repairs before the inspection, which is essential. This includes fixing leaky faucets, replacing cracked or missing outlet covers, and patching small holes in walls or ceilings. While these issues may seem small, they give the impression of a poorly maintained home and raise concerns for the inspector. Taking care of these minor repairs demonstrates pride in your property and a commitment to its upkeep. For building inspections in Sydney check vitalbuildinginspection.com.au/pricing/.
Maintain exterior
Your home’s exterior is the first thing the inspector will see, so making a good impression is crucial. Start by cleaning and decluttering your yard, removing exterior debris or removing over-exterior gestation. Trim trees and shrubs, ensuring they are not in contact with your home’s exterior, as this invites pests and moisture issues. Check your gutters and downspouts, clearing any blockages and ensuring that they direct water away from your Exterior. If you have any exterior damage, such as cracked siding or missing roof shingles, have them repaired before the inspection to avoid potential red flags.
Plan for your pets
If you have pets, making arrangements for them during the inspection is essential. Not only can pets distract the inspector, but they may also impede access to certain areas of your home. Consider boarding your pets or having them stay with a friend or family member during the inspection. If this isn’t possible, ensure they are secured in a safe area, such as a crate or a designated room, to minimize any disruptions to the inspection process. While being present during the entire inspection is unnecessary, it’s a good idea to be available and on-site for at least a portion of the process. This allows you to answer any questions the inspector may have and provide context for your home’s unique features or quirks. Being present also demonstrates your engagement and commitment to the inspection process. If you can’t be there in person, make sure you’re available by phone to address any concerns or questions that may arise.
