INSPECTION PREP CHECKLIST FOR HOME SELLERS
- Erik Hodge
- 12 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Prepare Your Home to Turn Inspection Day from Deal-Breaker to Deal-Maker
Provided by HHI Services - www.hhiservice.com
WHY THIS HOME INSPECTION CHECKLIST MATTERS
Most sellers wait for the buyer's inspection, then scramble when issues appear. Smart sellers use this home inspection checklist BEFORE listing to:
✅ Discover issues before buyers do
✅ Price accurately from day one
✅ Reduce negotiation surprises
✅ Speed up closing timelines
✅ Show you're a transparent, prepared seller
Recommended Timeline: Complete 2-4 weeks before listing
HVAC & MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
Before the Inspector Arrives:
✅ Change all air filters (saves you from an unnecessary "dirty filter" note)
✅ Test furnace AND air conditioning (both modes, even if not in season)
✅ Clear 3-foot area around furnace and water heater for inspector access
✅ Check for water pooling around water heater base
✅ Ensure all pilot lights are lit on gas appliances
✅ Note the age of your HVAC system (year installed): _______
✅ Have recent HVAC service records ready to show
Why This Matters: A non-functioning HVAC system can kill a deal. A well-maintained one with documentation shows buyer care.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Before the Inspector Arrives:
✅ Test ALL outlets (plug in a lamp and test each one)
✅Test GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchen, garage (press test/reset buttons)
✅ Replace all burned-out light bulbs throughout house
✅ Check for flickering lights or buzzing switches (get these repaired)
✅ Label your electrical panel circuits if not already done
✅ Replace batteries in ALL smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
✅ Test smoke and CO detectors (press test button on each)
✅ Count how many smoke/CO detectors you have: _______ (Should be in every bedroom, hallway near bedrooms, and main living area)
Why This Matters: Missing GFCI protection and non-functioning smoke detectors are deal-threatening safety issues.
PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Before the Inspector Arrives:
✅ Fix all leaky faucets, even small drips
✅ Check under every sink for moisture, stains, or damage
✅ Test all toilets (proper flushing, no running water after flush, make sure they are not loose)
✅ Clear slow drains with basic drain cleaner
✅ Locate and mark your main water shut-off valve
✅ Check water heater for leaks at base or connections
✅ Note age of water heater (year installed): _______
✅ Check water pressure (should feel normal at all faucets)
✅ If you have a septic system, note date last pumped: _______
Why This Matters: Active leaks and water damage are red flags. An aging water heater is information, not a problem—if disclosed.
ROOF & EXTERIOR
Before the Inspector Arrives:
✅ Clean ALL gutters and downspouts thoroughly
✅ Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from foundation
✅ Trim trees and bushes 6-12 inches away from house
✅ Repair any loose or missing siding pieces
✅ Check and replace deteriorated caulking around windows and doors
✅ Ensure grading slopes away from foundation (water should flow away, not toward house)
✅ Clear debris from window wells
✅ Remove any items stored against exterior walls
✅ Note roof age (year installed): _______ (or provide roofing receipts if available)
✅ If you've had any roof repairs, have documentation ready
Why This Matters: Water intrusion from poor grading, clogged gutters, or damaged siding causes expensive foundation problems.
INTERIOR CONDITIONS
Before the Inspector Arrives:
✅ Fix sticky or hard-to-open doors and windows
✅ Repair obvious holes in walls
✅ Address any visible water stains (and fix the SOURCE of the stain)
✅ Ensure attic access is clear and accessible
✅ Ensure crawl space access is clear and accessible
✅ Remove storage blocking furnace, water heater, or electrical panel
✅ Clean to allow full access to all areas
✅ Install handrails on stairs if missing (stairs with 3+ steps require handrails)
✅ Ensure all bedroom windows open (egress requirement)
Why This Matters: Blocked access = inspector can't inspect = buyer assumes the worst. Access issues delay closings.
APPLIANCES & SYSTEMS
Before the Inspector Arrives:
✅ Test dishwasher (full cycle, check for leaks)
✅ Test garbage disposal
✅ Check range hood and exhaust fan
✅ Test all burners on stove/range
✅ Test oven
✅ Check refrigerator (if included in sale)
✅ Test garage door opener and safety sensors
✅ Test all ceiling fans
✅ Note which appliances are included in sale: _______________
Why This Matters: Non-functioning included appliances give buyers immediate negotiation leverage.
DOCUMENTATION TO GATHER
Have These Ready for Your Agent and Buyers:
✅ Warranties for roof, HVAC, appliances, windows
✅ Receipts for major repairs or upgrades in last 5 years
✅ Dates of major replacements:
Roof: _______
HVAC: _______
Water heater: _______
Windows: _______
Major appliances: _______
✅ Property survey (if you have one)
✅ Septic system records (if applicable)
✅ Well water test results (if applicable)
✅ Permits for any additions or major renovations
✅ HOA documents (if applicable)
Why This Matters: Documentation proves maintenance and helps justify your asking price. Lack of documentation makes buyers assume neglect.
KNOW BEFORE YOU LIST
What Will the Inspector Look At?
Major Systems:
Structure (foundation, framing, roof)
Exterior (siding, grading, drainage)
Roofing
Plumbing system
Electrical system
HVAC system
Interior (walls, ceilings, floors)
Insulation and ventilation
Doors and windows
Appliances (if included)
Safety Items:
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
GFCI outlets
Handrails on stairs
Tempered glass in hazardous locations
Proper venting of combustion appliances
What Should You Fix Before Listing?
Fix These (Deal-Breakers):
Safety hazards
Active water leaks
Non-functioning major systems
Missing GFCI protection
Missing smoke/CO detectors
Obvious code violations
Disclose These (Normal Wear):
Aging but functional systems
Minor cosmetic issues
Routine maintenance needs
Age-appropriate wear
Your agent can help you prioritize what's worth fixing vs. disclosing.
THE DAY OF THE INSPECTION
Create the Best Environment:
Leave home during inspection (inspector and buyer need space)
Provide access to ALL areas (attic, crawl space, garage, sheds)
Turn on utilities (electricity, gas, water)
Unlock any locked areas (electrical panel, attic, storage)
Secure or remove pets
Leave documentation folder for inspector to photograph
Make sure agent has gate codes, lockbox codes, etc.
Why This Matters: Restricted access creates suspicion. Full access shows you have nothing to hide.
AFTER THE INSPECTION
Expect These Categories in the Report:
IMMEDIATE ATTENTION (Safety/Function): Items that truly affect safety or functionality. These may need to be addressed before closing.
REPAIR/REPLACE SOON (1-2 Years): Systems approaching end of life but currently working. Buyers should budget for these.
MONITOR & PLAN (2-5+ Years): Age-appropriate wear and routine maintenance. Normal for your home's age.
INFORMATIONAL: How systems work, maintenance tips, and general home care guidance.
An HHI Services report clearly separates these categories so everyone knows what's truly important vs. what's just information.
WHY CHOOSE HHI SERVICES?
When you refer your buyers to HHI Services, you get:
Reports That Inform, Not Inflame:
Executive summary in plain English (see a sample here)
Clear distinction between "fix now" vs. "monitor over time"
Photos that provide context, not just problems
Maintenance timeline for budget planning
Deal-Friendly Approach:
We understand our role in the transaction
Thorough but fair assessment
Clear communication with all parties
Reports designed to inform decisions, not kill deals
READY TO PREPARE YOUR HOME?
Step 1: Print this checklist and work through each section:
Step 2: Address obvious issues that you can fix affordably
Step 3: Gather all documentation and create a "home history" folder
Step 4: Share this information transparently with your agent
Step 5: Recommend HHI Services to your buyers for a fair, thorough inspection
Contact HHI Services
Erik Hodge, Certified Inspector
248-388-4783
Serving Southeastern Michigan with thorough, fair, and transaction-friendly home inspections.
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