Serving Greater Atlanta and North Georgia

 

 

Things To Do Before Your Home Inspection

 

Here are a list of things you can do and a little advice before your home inspection. Many of these items may be taken care of with little or no cost and will indicate to the home inspector and buyer that the house has been maintained. Above all don't do quick, cheap repairs. Inspectors are trained professionals who can spot substandard work and will result in a closer examination of the property.

Make sure your inspector will have clear access to all attic, crawlspace, heat systems, garage and other areas that will need to be inspected. Clear away any objects that will hinder examination. Paints, solvents, gas, and other chemicals should be removed. Anything that can't be examined will go into the report.

 

Exterior:

  • Clear away and grade or mulch from around the siding, giving six inches of clearance including foundation vents.
  • Install window wells and covers on any windows that are below grade.
  • Seal or point up any failing mortar joints in brick and block, including chimney caps and install a metal flue cap.
  • Clean out and repair gutters and any debris from the roof. Repair any downspouts, condensation drains, and sump pumps. Sump pumps should be in good working order. Rainwater diversion should drain away from the house.
  • Grade should slope away from house.
  • Seal asphalt driveways if cracking.

 

Attic, Basement and Crawl Spaces:

  • Update and repair attic ventilation and vapor barrier.
  • Remove any visible moisture from crawlspaces and install vapor barriers if none are present. Moisture levels in wood should be below 18% to deter rot and mildew.
  • Seal masonry walls in the basement.

 

Interior:

  • Test all smoke detectors making sure they are in good working order.
  • Have chimneys, fireplaces, and woodstoves professionally cleaned and repaired and provide a copy of the bill for the buyer.
  • Have the HVAC system cleaned and serviced, including vents, plenum, and air returns. Replace the filter.
  • Check that bathrooms are properly vented.
  • Put all plumbing fixtures, toilet, tub, shower, sinks, in proper working condition and repair any leaks.
  • Make sure the toilet is properly attached to the floor.
  • Remove and replace caulk around plumbing fixtures, including walls and floors surrounding tubs, sinks, showers, glass doors and toilet
  • Install GFCI receptacles near all water sources, test all present GFCI receptacles for proper operation.
  • Get all windows and doors in proper operating condition, and replace cracked window panes.

 

Vacant Houses

  • Be sure all utilities are turned on including gas, water and electric.
  • Turn on the electrical breakers as well as the water heater, air conditioning and heating units.