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Prepare your home for a Home Inspection: the basics
- Rob Wheeler
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 20
After years of inspecting homes, there are a few basic steps to prepare your home for a home inspection that will save you time and money from potential re-inspections.
1. Utilities On? Water and Gas
Property Vacant: If a home has been vacant for weeks/months there is a higher possibility that the utilities may have been shut off. Recommend double checking before the inspection
Water Off: If you home water is shut off. Give instructions and permission to the Inspector to be able to turn it on and test the plumbing
Breakers off: Some vacation homes shut off breakers to components of the home. It is important to inform the inspector and give permission to turn on breakers or reasons why a breaker should stay off
Gas on: Ensure the property gas is turned on, this has to be done by the utility company prior to the inspection
2. Ensure access is clear and unlocked
Clear Access: Crawlspace and attic access are often blocked by personal belongings. Inspectors are not allowed to move personal items.
Locked/Unlocked: Ensure all locks are open or provide instructions for unlocking (code or location of key)
Owner's closets: These are often locked and can leave a potential buyer wondering what defects are hiding behind them.
Hidden Items: Water shutoff valves are often hidden in unique places. If your home has a unique item/feature, let the inspector know about it beforehand.
3. Interior/Exterior
Light in Every Room: Replace any burned-out bulbs
Window Screens: often missing in a few windows. Install before the inspection
Handrails & Guardrails: Ensure stairs, decks, and balconies have secure railings. A quick tightening of a loose fastener can help keep the report clean
Trees: Tahoe is full of trees and most likely your property has some that could use a trim or potential removal before inspection. Always use a professional for tree trim service.
4. Prioritize Safety & Easy Electrical Fixes
Smoke & CO Detectors: Test all units; replace batteries or expired 10-year sealed alarms.
GFCI Outlets: Test and reset every kitchen, bath, and exterior GFCI—replace any that won’t reset.
Damaged Outlets: Cracked/damaged Outlets are common in older homes. Replacing any damaged Outlets keeps the report clean
Missing Outlet Covers: Common and easy fix. If the cover plate is damaged or missing - replace it.
Overhead Service Conductors: Often the overhead service drop is in contact with tree branches. Contact the utility company to trim the branches. It's their responsibility and it can take time to schedule
5. Kitchen/Baths
Loose toilets: a quick turn of the wrench can keep this common deficiency off the report
Grout/Sealant Cracks: Check your sinks and bathtub areas for crack/deteriorated grout and/or Sealant. An easy fix to keep your report clean
GFCI: bathrooms require GFCI protected outlets. Test yours before inspection with the test and rest buttons on the outlet and replace if they are damaged/not functional.
6. Log Home Paperwork Required
Name of the original builder
Proof of certified log grading
Written settling adjustment records
Any special systems installed but not visible at the time of the inspection
Any performed maintenance
Additional construction or repair since the original construction
Email these documents to the inspector as soon as you schedule the inspection. They are often difficult to find so it's a good item to check before you book the inspection.
Why It Pays to Prep
No re-inspection fees: Get your inspection right the 1st time and avoid re-inspection fees
Stronger Offers: A clean inspection report reassures buyers
Faster Closings: Fewer “repair addendum” means your sale timeline stays on track.
Higher Sale Price: Confidence in a solid inspection can translate to better offers and fewer credits back to the buyer.
Ready to lock in a seamless inspection? Book your home inspection today at https://www.asaphomeinspections.online/schedule-online or call (530) 536-0640—and show buyers your home is truly move-in ready!
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