Selling a house is a complex process with many steps. A home inspection is an important step, but is often overlooked.
This is what you call a “pre-sale inspection”.
This inspection allows you to identify problems in your home and fix them before it is put on the market. You can ensure that the sale of your home will go smoothly if you know its condition. You could also increase the value of your home.
Pre-sale Inspection Checklist includes an in-depth review of your house from the inside to the outside. The pre-sale inspection checklist is designed to identify any defects or issues in your house that could compromise its marketability or stability.
Inspections are more often conducted by buyers. You’ll also know that pre-sale inspections are effective for both buyers and sellers.
We takes you through the checklist for pre-sale home inspection. We will also explain exactly what pre-sale inspection is. As a seller, you can read on to learn more about what you can expect from the home inspection pre-sale process.
What is Pre-Sale Inspection?
Pre-sale inspections are a thorough examination of the condition of a house. The inspection is done before the house is put on the market for sale.
Qualified home inspectors perform a walkthrough as part of the pre-sale process. Hands-on evaluations of the exterior and interior of the house. The inspectors will then be able to identify any defects or issues in the major systems and structures of the home.
The home inspector will examine your house from all angles. Included are the roof, attic, walls and ceilings, flooring, windows and doors, as well as interior. The inspector will assess elements such as the foundation, basement, and structural components.
The inspectors will also cover exterior elements such as decks, porches and hot tubs. Inspectors will pay attention to the kitchen, its appliances, bathroom fixtures, and other exterior elements.
The inspector will also check that your systems are in good working order and physical condition. These systems may include HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Check your home’s insulation, ventilation and energy efficiency.
The Checklist for Pre-Sale Inspection
The pre-sale home inspection checklist is used to consider several important areas when getting a house inspection before selling. Sellers can prepare better if they know what will be examined. Let’s look at each item on the pre-sale checklist.
Exterior
During the inspection, your home’s exterior is thoroughly examined. Inspectors will examine the roof and gutters. The inspectors will check the roof, gutters, flashings, roof vents and shingles for damage and leaks.
Inspectors may use binoculars to inspect roofs, and they might even climb up on top of the roofs for a closer look. Roof inspections are conducted by some companies using cutting-edge technologies, including drones for aerial views.
Inspectors will check for loose or rotting siding material. The inspectors will also look for paint chips, mold, mildew or pest damage.
The inspectors will also notice any damage to the windows and doors. Inspectors will also note any damage to the screens, frames, weather stripping and other parts. The inspectors will also check your doors and windows for their proper operation and lock.
Inspectors will also check the garage door openers and their proper operation. The inspectors will check all outdoor structures to see if there are fences, sheds or detached elements.
Interior
During the inspection, your home will be inspected room by room. Inspectors will pay attention to every detail, including walls, ceilings and flooring, as well as kitchens and bathroom.
Your inspectors will be looking for red flags on the walls and ceilings. Cracks, water stains and sagging are all examples. Also, they will look for signs of pests such as termites. They will also point out any uneven surfaces, squeaking or damaged flooring materials.
They will check the functionality of your doors and windows. Your inspectors will be able to report on any problems such as damaged screens, rot or lock issues.
In the kitchen, the appliances will be tested for their proper operation and condition. The inspectors will also highlight any signs of leaks or pests. They may also point out chipped paint on the cabin, or damaged wood. The inspectors will also assess the bathroom and its fixtures. The inspectors will assess the toilets, sinks and ventilation, as well as their functionality. Water damage, mold and defective fixtures will be noted.
Safety Features
Your home will undergo a thorough inspection for safety issues. Inspectors will check the placement, functionality, and age of smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. The inspectors will also test the fire extinguishers for their presence and charge level.
Handrails installed properly on decks, stairs, porches and other areas will be checked. For pool and hot tub safety, the proper enclosures will be inspected, as well as gate latches, signs, and other safety features.
General Maintenance
You will also have your home inspected to ensure that it is in good condition. The buyers will know the history of the house. Inspectors will point out any plumbing leaks, whether they are present or not. These may include water stains or mold stains.
Inspectors will check your HVAC system to see if there are any issues. It could be that your HVAC system is showing signs of aging, low performance, or damage. These are all indicators that it’s time to repair or maintain. The inspector will check for termites, carpenter ants, cockroaches or rodents in your home.
Accessibility features
The inspectors will examine the accessibility of your house during the inspections. It may be the entryways, interior areas, bathrooms and kitchens.
Inspectors will note the ease with which the home can be accessed. The inspectors will observe how easily the interior space, such as hallways and bedrooms, can be moved. The inspector will also note any issues with accessibility in other areas such as grab bars, shower bench, and adjustable counters.
Sellers can do their own pre-inspection if they know what will be checked. The seller can make any necessary repairs or improvements prior to the inspection. This will help avoid unpleasant surprises.
The Bottom Line
A pre-sale inspection of the home can be very beneficial to sellers. Inspections are often associated with buyers but they can also be beneficial to sellers.
You can learn more about your home’s current condition by performing a pre-sale check before you list it. You can take action later, rather than waiting for the buyer’s inspection to reveal any issues. Address any safety issues, defects or repairs that are needed before the sale.