Here are a few simple things homeowners can do to head off common issues found during inspections conducted by buyers inspectors.
- Remove any old parts the contractor left by the furnace or water heater. Leftover parts may confuse inspectors and buyers and can lead to all sorts of negative assumptions about the condition of furnace and water heater.
- Make sure every light fixture in the house has a working light bulb in it. Inspectors may suggest a fixture isn’t working if the bulb is burned out.
- If there is a fuse box remove any old and all-new extra fuses and put them away.
- Clean the surfaces of the water heater and furnace.
- Make sure all of the windows have screens on them.
- Make sure all windows open and close.
- Check under every sink and remove any buckets if there is no leak present.
- Make sure all electrical outlets and light switches have covers.
- If extension cords are being used due to lack of outlets disconnect and remove the extension cords.
- Change the furnace filter.
Some of the items I am mentioning will just help to keep the list of items that need attention shorter which will leave a better impression on the buyer.
Some home inspectors don’t know what they are doing and others are excellent. There isn’t any licensure or even qualifications to be a home inspector in Minnesota. Over the years I have seen all sorts of crazy on home inspections. Sometimes home buyers kind of freak out and so do sellers when confronted with a list of repair requests.
Also, see the City of St. Paul Truth in Housing Inspection
