Seller Resources
Preparing for a Home Inspection
A do-it-yourself checklist for sellers.
Your Progress 0%
Consider a few steps you can take on your own to ensure a smooth inspection. If there's anything on the list that's above your DIY comfort level, consider calling in an expert. Click any item to mark it complete and track your progress across all six sections.
6 Sections · 44 Items Total
1
Clean and Declutter Inspection Access Points
5 items
- Clean/replace air handler/HVAC filter(s)
- Clean stove and oven
- Ensure access to attic and/or crawl space is clear
- Organize closets that are access points to attic/crawl space
- Clear 4–6 inches of space around the home's exterior perimeter
Completed 0 / 5
2
Test Functionality of Items a Home Inspector Will Check
10 items
- Open/close windows and test locks and seals
- Flush all toilets and run all faucets
- Run ceiling, bathroom, and range/stove fans
- Test all light switches
- Open/close garage doors manually and with remote
- Test garage door reverse safety setting
- Confirm door weather stripping is intact
- Ensure downspouts divert water away from home
- Check heating ducts connected in attic/crawl space
- Check fan ducts properly vent out of attic
Completed 0 / 10
3
Take Basic Safety and Security Precautions
5 items
- Replace smoke detector batteries
- Test carbon monoxide detector
- Have a fire extinguisher available
- Clean fireplace (unburnt logs/ashes) for visual inspection
- Exterminate bugs/rodents
Completed 0 / 5
4
Make Necessary Repairs to the Property
9 items
- Replace light bulbs
- Re-caulk around bathtubs/sinks
- Repair water damage in bathrooms
- Clear drain clogs
- Clean dingy grout
- Replace torn screens/cracked windows
- Replace missing roofing
- Replace damaged attic/crawl space insulation
- Cover crawl space with 6 mm plastic sheeting
Completed 0 / 9
5
Complete Exterior Home Improvements
5 items
- Sweep debris off roof (or pressure wash)
- Trim trees near/over the roofline
- Clean gutters
- Clear debris from A/C compressor, downspout drainage, foundation vents
- Slope soil away from home for water runoff
Completed 0 / 5
6
Make Last-Minute Preparations for Your Inspection
10 items
- Leave the home an hour early
- Take pets with you
- Leave remotes for garage door/ceiling fans/lights
- Leave keys for gates/outbuildings/electrical boxes
- Turn on pilot lights for gas appliances including water heater
- Ensure all utilities are on
- Take laundry out of washer/dryer
- Remove dishes from sink/dishwasher
- Leave a sketch of well/septic tank location
- Leave paperwork for maintenance/repairs/insurance claims
Completed 0 / 10
*Modified list from various sources - including Zillow.