Home Inspection Preparation Checklist for Sellers

A practical, room-by-room guide to reviewing your home before a professional home inspection.

A licensed home inspector may examine many of the items listed below when visiting your home. A home inspection is generally a visual evaluation of accessible systems and components.

Reviewing these areas ahead of time can help you identify maintenance concerns, arrange appropriate repairs, and provide clear access for the inspection.

Not every item applies to every property, and an inspector may identify issues beyond this list. This checklist is intended to help you prepare, not to replace a professional inspection.

Check items off below as you go, or download a printable copy to keep handy. On-screen checkmarks are not saved when you leave the page.

1. Before the Inspector Arrives

Make sure all utilities are turned on. Provide clear, unlocked access to the electrical panel, crawl space, and attic. Move stored boxes so the inspector can see the garage walls. Make sure gas fireplaces can be operated as intended; have a qualified professional address any issues. Replace or clean HVAC filters as appropriate. Secure or remove pets during the inspection.

2. Exterior & Crawl Space

Confirm gutters and downspouts are clear and direct water away from the house; check splash blocks. Have loose shingles and exposed or popped roofing nails evaluated and repaired by a qualified roofer. Check exterior wood trim and joints for soft or deteriorated areas. Check steps for loose bricks or wood; address any safety concerns. Check handrails for looseness. Inspect the deck for weathered wood, loose boards, and protruding nails. Check for fallen insulation or wood debris beneath decks and in accessible crawl spaces. Check outdoor hose faucets for leaks and loose fittings.

3. Garage

Check that the garage door's automatic reverse and safety features operate properly; consult a garage-door professional if needed. Look for possible termite mud tubes along visible garage foundation walls; arrange a pest evaluation if found. Check for damage to drywall separating the garage from living space; consult a qualified professional about repairs.

4. Interior

Check that windows open, close, and lock. Confirm operable windows stay open on their own. Look for cracked glass, condensation between panes, or signs of failed window seals. Check doors for rubbing or sticking. Look for holes or damage caused by door handles or missing door stops. Check ceiling fans for wobbling at different speeds. Replace burned-out light bulbs. Check carpets for loose areas or ripples that may need stretching. Check flooring for trip hazards or other safety concerns.

6. Electrical & Safety

Note tripped, missing, or unlabeled breakers; have a qualified electrician evaluate electrical-panel concerns. Use the built-in test buttons to check accessible GFCI outlets when safe; ask a qualified electrician to evaluate GFCI or AFCI concerns.

A note about safety: Do not open electrical panels, climb onto roofs, enter unsafe crawl spaces, or attempt hazardous repairs yourself. Contact qualified professionals when appropriate. This checklist does not guarantee that a professional inspection will identify no additional concerns.

Thinking About Selling Your Home?

Preparing for an inspection is just one part of getting your home ready for the market. If you have questions about what to address before listing, give us a call. We can help you determine where to focus your efforts.

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Home Inspection Preparation Checklist