The Preparation Check List
Conditions can exist which make it impossible for the inspector to check certain areas or systems in the house. If this happens, a client should schedule a follow-up inspection of the property, which will incur an additional fee. Since it’s to the homeowner’s advantage financially to have all aspects of the house inspected in one visit, listing agents should suggest that clients use the following checklist to assure accessibility:

-Is the home’s gas service turned on?

-Is the home’s electric service turned on?

-Is the home’s water service turned on?

-Is the electrical panel box unlocked? 

-Is the electrical panel box blocked by items such as shelves or storage?

-Is the attic easily accessible?

-Is the irrigation system control box unlocked?

-If the home has a pier and beam foundation, is access blocked by items such as shelves or storage?

-Is the heating system blocked by items such as shelves or storage?

-Is the pilot to the heating system turned on?

-Is the cooling system blocked by items such as shelves or storage?

-Is the water heater/system blocked by items such as shelves or storage?

-Is the water heating system pilot on?

-Are dogs or other family pets secured?

-Is the security system off? If not, does the inspector have the access code?

If the homeowner makes the systems in the home easily accessible, he can facilitate the home inspection process – and save himself some money in the bargain!