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Are you planning to sell your house? If so, make sure that everything is in order. Selling a house is much like selling a car, your buyer will do everything to make sure everything runs according to spec. Sure you can sell a house as is, but then the value will plummet significantly. A residential building inspection will make sure that the house you are selling is in tip top shape, so passing the inspection is a must lest you lose money with the sale. Below are some things to consider when selling your home to pass a home building inspector’s evaluation.
Plumbing
Before putting your house on sale, make sure you fix all leaks and clogs. A home building inspector will check the water pressure of a home by turning on multiple faucets and flushing toilets all at the same time. Other appliances will be tested to like dishwashers and washing machines. Leaks and clogs will show up during these tests.
Another thing an inspector will check is the septic system. This is checked by flushing a toilet with dyes. If the dye surfaces on the drainfield, then a drainage problem is present. So make sure your septic system is working too.
Electricals
For a house’s needs, the electrical panel and circuit breakers are checked as well. Usually a 125 amp panel will work, but make sure that individual circuits are never overloaded.
Inspectors will search for receptacles with ground fault circuit interrupters or GFI in bathrooms and kitchens. These usually have test-reset buttons. The residential building inspector will make sure that these all work and they are not dummy receptacles that are not wired to work. Three pronged receptacles or grounded receptacles will be inspected too so make sure these are in order.
Other Systems
Inspector will also check the heating and cooling systems in the house to make sure they all work and are efficient. The structure and foundations will be checked as well as all other appliances. Smoke detectors will be given a run over as well.
Preparation Before An Inspection
Before a residential building inspection takes place, do your very best to make sure that everything works to spec. If the inspector gives negative statements, don’t be discouraged. Inspectors tend to look for every fault be it major or minor. Besides, no home is perfect.
A home inspection report is not a wish list for buyers, keep that in mind. Go over your contract with a fine toothed comb for it usually mentions which systems should be in good working order. What does this mean? Say, your roof is looking old and weathered, but no leaks arise, then it is in good working order. If there is a leak, but one that is easily repaired, then it is in good working order.
The contract may also say that you are under no obligation to repair anything, though this could mean that buyers can withdraw anytime. If at all, never comply to unreasonable repair demands like if the buyer demands that you replace every fixture, paint and trim to brand new. Be fair to the buyer, and let the buyer be fair to you.If you need advice on how to prep a home for inspection, check out our list of building inspectors. Find one that is near you and ask for advice how to make your house ready for selling.
