The day before: Clear a path
Walk through the home as if you were visiting for the first time. Leave a note if a hatch, door, or shutoff is hard to find.
- Move boxes and furniture away from the electrical panel, water heater, and indoor heating and cooling equipment.
- Clear the floor beneath the attic hatch and move stored items away from the crawlspace entrance. Leave both closed.
- Clear a path to the garage, outdoor HVAC unit, and any detached structures included in the appointment.
Inspection day: Utilities, keys, and pets
Coordinate entry with your agent, especially if the home is vacant or occupied by a tenant.
- Confirm that normally operating water, electricity, and gas will be available. If service is off or equipment was shut down for safety, notify your agent and the inspection office. Arrange any restart with the utility or a qualified contractor.
- Give your agent approved access instructions for gates, garages, and included outbuildings. Share alarm codes privately.
- Take pets with you when possible or coordinate a secure plan that still allows the inspector to access the home.
- Confirm the appointment window with everyone at home. If you need to stay, coordinate with your agent.
Flag anything the inspector should know
Tell your agent about known leaks, disabled equipment, inaccessible areas, or special entry instructions. Leave electrical covers in place and avoid climbing onto the roof or entering the crawlspace to prepare. If specialty testing is booked, follow the instructions from the inspection office.