Getting ready for a home inspection is often overlooked and taken for granted. To ensure the best outcome for the inspector’s visit, preparation is necessary. Here’s a handy pre-inspection checklist of things to be done by all the parties – inspector, buyer, agent and seller.
Action By Inspector
The inspector’s office will confirm the appointment date and time as well as email the following documents:
- We issue the Inspection Agreement by email, typically one to two days in advance of the appointment
- We include a link to the Scope of Inspection as defined by Home Inspections Association BC
Action By Buyer
The more involvement by the buyer, the better. Here’s what you need to do:
- Review the Inspection Agreement
- Review the Scope of Inspection
- By return email, complete your acceptance of the Agreement
- If you have any specific concerns about the property, discuss those items with the Inspector in advance
- Be available to participate in the inspection or attend the walk-through summary at the end
Action By Agent
Agents are professionals and know this by heart:
- If you will not be there to open-up, make sure the key is in the lock-box and the code is correct
- If you will not be there to open-up, make sure you have the deactivation code
- Advise if seller or tenant will be present for the inspection
- If there is a rental unit, obtain tenant’s permission for entry
- Ensure all utilities turned on
- Advise if property is connected to a septic system or well
- Ensure that all pets are confined during the inspection
Action By Seller
Unobstructed access is required. The inspector will not move or remove any furnishings that block access or visibility. Be sure that there is clearance to get at the following items:
- Electrical Panel
- Furnace
- Hot Water Heater
- Heat Pump
- Air Conditioner
- Under Counter
- Crawl Space
- Attic Hatch
- Garage