The Dos and Don'ts of Preparing for a Home Inspection: How to Ensure a Smooth Process

By Stan Dickens, Villa Surveyors

Introduction:

Congratulations for taking action to make sure of a seamless sale of your home! As a Chartered Surveyor undertaking home inspectors in Spain and Portugal, I am aware of the value of a simple and straightforward inspection procedure. Here is a list of dos and don’ts to assist you in being as prepared as possible for your home inspection so that it goes as trouble free as possible.

Dos:

1. Clean and declutter:

Start by cleaning your home thoroughly. A clean and clutter-free space allows the inspector to easily access all areas and identify any potential issues. Pay special attention to commonly scrutinised areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and utility rooms.

2. Provide necessary access:

Ensure that all areas of your property are easily accessible. Unlock doors, gates, and any other areas that may be locked or obstructed. This will save time and enable the inspector to conduct a comprehensive examination.

3. Clear the perimeter:

Trim any overgrown plants or bushes that may impede access to the exterior of your home. Remove any obstacles that may hinder the inspection, such as debris, outdoor furniture, or vehicles parked too close to the property.

4. Organize documentation:

Gather together all relevant documents related to the property. This will include floor plans, land registry extracts, building permits, warranties, repair invoices, and maintenance records. Providing these documents to the inspector can help them gain a better understanding of the property’s history and identify any potential issues.

5. Test your systems:

Make sure the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical systems are all in good working order. Don’t forget to check the light switches, power sockets, all water taps and toilet flushes. Test the heating and cooling systems at least 10 days before the inspection so you have time to have them repaired if necessary. This will assist the inspector in determining your home’s general condition and result in less issues in the completed inspection report.

Don’ts:

1. Hide potential issues:

Avoid concealing any known defects or problems in your home. It’s essential to disclose any previous issues or ongoing repairs to the inspector. Transparency is crucial for a thorough inspection and ensures accurate reporting.

2. Overlook small repairs:

Take care of minor repairs before the inspection. Fixing leaky faucets, loose handrails, or broken tiles can help create a positive impression and prevent any unnecessary red flags during the inspection.

3. Forget to check safety features:

Ensure that all fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors, and smoke detectors are working. If batteries need to be changed, replace them with fresh ones and recheck all devices on the morning of the inspection to make sure they work.

4. Leave pets unattended:

To ensure the safety of both your pets and the inspector, make arrangements to keep any potentially troublesome pets away from the property during the inspection. This will help the inspector navigate freely and focus on his or her job without any distractions.

5. Rush the process:

Allow ample time for the inspection and don’t make important arrangements on the same day. Typically, inspections can take a few hours, depending on the size and condition of the property. However, delays can sometimes occur. Be patient and give the inspector enough time to conduct a thorough examination which will ensure accurate results.

Conclusion:

By following these dos and don’ts, you can help make a home inspection experience a smooth and successful one. Remember, preparation is key, and being proactive in addressing any potential issues beforehand will save you time and stress in the long run. Good luck with your home inspection, and feel free to reach out to the author (Stan Dickens of Villa Surveyors) if you have any further questions or concerns.