Seller's Inspection Checklist

General

  • Inform inspector if something isn’t working, is winterized, or shouldn’t be turned on!
  • Ensure your pets are penned or crated, and that firearms and valuables are safely put away.
  • Be sure to clear items out of the way of electrical panels, accesses, and foundation walls.

Inside

  • Make sure all outlets and switches have covers. Replace any burned-out bulbs. Put fresh batteries in and make available remotes. Be sure proper screws are installed on panel cover.
  • If your smoke detectors don’t work or are older than ten years, replace them.
  • Ensure all handles, latches, knobs, slides, and locks are present and properly functioning on drawers, windows, doors, and cabinets.
  • Replace dirty HVAC filters. Clean dust and lint from bathroom fans, registers, and dryer vents.
  • Clean appliances and fixtures and have them unloaded or empty. Make sure all available accessories are present, safety devices are installed, and let us know if a feature isn’t working or has been disabled.
  • Correct any trip hazards or loose handrails.
  • Repair any leaking plumbing fixtures.
  • Repair or replace broken fans/electrical fixtures.
  • Install missing or repair broken shelving. Ensure all doors and windows operate properly and have screens installed (if applicable).
  • Ensure proper operation of garage doors.
  • Test GFCI and AFCI outlets and breakers.

Basement and Outside

  • Remove any animal nests from fascia, vents, and soffits.
  • Apply fresh chalking where needed and paint metal lintels over windows and doors.
  • Clean gutters, install splash blocks or downspout extenders.
  • Be sure to slope mulch or topsoil away from the edge of any siding or veneer.
  • Trim back vegetation away from roof or sides.
  • Remove items away from foundation walls and from underneath decks, porches, or within crawlspaces. Replace or reinstall any missing or hanging insulation.
  • Ensure all basement windows and egress wells are clear and covered.
  • Test the sump pump and make sure a cover is installed.
  • Ensure fencing and gates are serviceable.
  • Clear vegetation and items from HVAC, plumbing/well, and sewer/septic components.
  • Ensure exterior outlets have weatherproof covers and are GFCI protected.
  • Repair any trip hazards, loose boards, or railings.
  • Ensure the chimney cap is installed and the roof is clear of debris. Repair or replace any loose shingles or missing components.
  • Test the doorbell and all exterior lighting.
  • Pressure wash exterior surfaces. Repaint and repair cladding and trim as necessary.
  • ***Don’t forget. Lawn irrigation, pools, hot tubs, exterior buildings, etc. may need additional, preparation as well…