Real Estate Home Inspection is the art
of identifying problem areas through observation and noting the
condition and operation of the major structural and mechanical
components. It is a technical and complex field that demands a
professional approach.
A home inspection can assist a buyer in
understanding the condition of the home and it can offer assistance
to a seller who is trying to provide accurate disclosure.
Homebuyers and sellers need a
professionally designated property inspector.
1. Confirm that the gas, water
and electricity are turned on and that the gas pilot lights are
burning.
2. Ensure all pets won't
hinder the inspection and inform everyone about pets to be kept
inside.
3. Replace all burned out
light bulbs.
4. Test all smoke and carbon
monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries if necessary.
5. Clean or replace dirty HVAC
air filters and verify that the filters fit properly and are secured
in place.
6. Move wood, stored items or
debris away from the foundation walls.
7. Unlock or remove locks from
any items the inspector must access such as fence gates, attic
access hatches or doors, electric service panels, special closets,
crawl space access for pier-and-beam homes.
8. Confirm areas and
components are accessible by removing items blocking access to
electric service panels, sinks and bathtubs, ovens and cook tops,
dishwasher, heating and air-conditioning equipment, water heaters,
ground fault (GFCI) receptacles, attic access ladders or hatches,
crawl space access for pier and-beam-construction.
9. Trim tree limbs back from
the roof and shrubs away from the house.
10. Repair or replace broken,
damaged or missing items such as door knobs, locks and latches,
window locks and broken glass, window screens, anti-siphon devices
on exterior faucets, rain gutters and downspouts (clean if
necessary), chimney flue caps.
11. Remove autos from the
garage and driveway.
12. Clean ashes from the
fireplace and remove items from the fireplace hearth area.
Following this checklist will result in
a "cleaner" inspection report, which is good news for all.
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