🏡 Top 40 Things Home Inspectors Look For

A Homeowner’s Guide to a Smooth, Stress-Free Inspection

Preparing for a home inspection can feel like one of the most nerve-wracking parts of selling your home — but it doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can make sure your property is ready to impress both the inspector and potential buyers. As your Lake Wylie Real Estate Specialist, I’ve gathered the top 40 things home inspectors typically look for so you can approach inspection day with confidence and peace of mind.

🔧 General Preparation

Before inspection day, make sure your home is clean, comfortable, and accessible. A well-presented home not only helps the inspector do their job efficiently but also gives buyers confidence that your property has been well cared for.

Checklist:

1. ✅ Turn on all utilities (electricity, gas, and water).
2. ✅ Ensure access to key areas: electrical panel, crawlspace, attic, and garage walls.
3. ✅ Secure or remove pets for safety and convenience

💡 Pro Tips: Expect that buyers will often attend the inspection. Clean thoroughly, remove dishes from the sink, clear pans from the oven, and park vehicles outside the garage. Replace all air filters before the inspection. Consider setting out bottled water for buyers and leave your phone number for the inspector in case questions arise.

🌳 Exterior

The outside of your home sets the tone for the entire inspection. Focus on drainage, structure, and safety.

Checklist:
4. ✅ Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from the house.
5. ✅ Repair any loose shingles or nail pops on the roof.
6. ✅ Clean gutters and clear out downspouts.
7. ✅ Inspect wood trim for softness, damage, or missing caulk.
8. ✅ Secure any loose steps, bricks, or boards.
9. ✅ Tighten or repair wobbly handrails.
10. ✅ Check decks for weathering, rotting, or loose boards.
11. ✅ Remove wood scraps or fallen insulation under the deck.
12. ✅ Ensure outdoor faucets (hose bibs) aren’t leaking.
13. ✅ Add anti-siphon devices to hose bibs if not already installed.

🚗 Garage

Garages are often overlooked, but inspectors pay close attention to fire safety and functionality.

Checklist:
14. ✅ Test the automatic reverse feature on the garage door.
15. ✅ Look for termite (mud) tubes on garage walls.
16. ✅ Clear stored items away from walls for visibility.
17. ✅ Make sure drywall or fire-rated materials are intact and not compromised.

🏠 Interior

Inside the home, inspectors check functionality, safety, and maintenance. Small details—like a loose outlet cover or wobbly ceiling fan—can add up, so give your home a quick tune-up.

Checklist:
18. ✅ Test all windows to ensure they open, close, and lock properly.
19. ✅ Verify windows stay open on their own and stay up on their own.
20. ✅ Check all windows for broken seals or cracks.
21. ✅ Make sure all outlet covers are secure and unbroken.
22. ✅ Ensure doors open and close smoothly without rubbing.
23. ✅ Check for wall or door punctures from handles or stoppers.
24. ✅ Run ceiling fans on all speeds and fix any wobbling.
25. ✅ Replace all burned-out light bulbs.
26. ✅ Clean or stretch carpets if needed.
27. ✅ Patch holes or nail pops in walls and ceilings.

🍽️ Kitchens & Bathrooms

Plumbing, appliances, and moisture issues are common focus points. Inspectors will test every faucet, drain, and fixture, so double-check that everything works as it should.

Checklist:
28. ✅ Fill sinks and tubs to test for drainage and leaks.
29. ✅ Run the disposal and dishwasher to confirm operation.
30. ✅ Make sure cabinets are securely fastened and doors don’t rub.
31. ✅ Verify all stove burners and oven elements are working.
32. ✅ Reseal caulk along countertops and backsplashes if needed.
33. ✅ Repair or replace loose or missing tiles.
34. ✅ Check toilets for cracks, looseness, or rocking.
35. ✅ Test flush mechanisms and confirm toilets shut off properly.
36. ✅ Ensure hot water comes from the left faucet handle.
37. ✅ Check water pressure and clean aerators/screens for good flow.
38. ✅ Inspect laundry connections and water heater for leaks or corrosion.
39. ✅ Check water heater for leaks
40. ✅ Check for tripped or missing breakers

Taking time to address these details before the inspection can prevent surprises, reduce stress, and show buyers that your home has been well cared for. Most of these fixes are simple and inexpensive, but together they send a powerful message that your home is move-in ready.

As a Your Local Luxury Real Estate Specialist, I’m here to make every step of your selling process smooth and successful — from preparation to closing day. If you’re thinking about selling your home or want to know how to get it inspection-ready, reach out anytime. Let’s make sure your home shines when it matters most.

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📞 Andy Reynolds, Lake Wylie Real Estate Specialist
🌐 www.SmartMoveWithAndy.com
📧 [email protected] | ☎️ 704-763-7196