How to Prepare for a Home Inspection (Without Stressing Out)
Becca
10/16/25 11:01 AM
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If you’re selling a home, you’ve probably wondered:
“How do I prepare for a home inspection?”
It’s a smart question—and one that deserves a clear answer.
A home inspection is a key step once your house goes under contract. It gives the buyer a clearer picture of the home’s condition, but how you prepare can make a big difference in how smoothly the process goes.
With a little prep (and a calm mindset), you can help your inspection day run faster, cleaner, and with fewer surprises. Here’s everything you need to know about how to prepare your home for a home inspection—so you stay organized, confident, and one step ahead.
A home inspection is a detailed, visual evaluation of your property’s condition. Your inspector walks through the house—from roof to foundation—checking major systems like plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and structure.
It’s not about passing or failing. A home inspection helps the buyer understand what’s working, what needs attention, and what might cost them later. A little preparation on your part helps the inspector do their best work, focused on what truly matters.
You don’t need to be a contractor to get your home inspection-ready. But there are a few simple steps that can make the process smoother and leave a great impression on both the buyer and the inspector.
Here’s your home inspection checklist before inspection day:
Make sure all doors, gates, sheds, utility rooms, and electrical panels are accessible and unlocked. If something’s locked, it can’t be inspected (and will show up as “not accessible” in your report).
Inspectors need easy access to:
Move boxes, furniture, laundry baskets, or anything else blocking these areas. You don’t need to stage the house—just make sure nothing’s in the way. Your inspector will thank you.
If a light doesn’t turn on, the inspector has to make a note of that—even if it’s just a burned-out bulb. Replace bulbs and test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and garage door remotes before inspection day.
A clean, uncluttered house gives the impression it’s cared for and well-maintained. Wipe down surfaces, sweep up pet hair, and pick up toys or yard tools. Little things go a long way.
Tackle the easy wins:
You don’t have to renovate or make everything perfect—but handling these minor issues shows you’ve maintained your home. It helps inspectors (and buyers) focus on the bigger picture.
Trim overgrown shrubs or branches blocking access to the siding, roof, or windows. Move trash bins, hoses, or yard gear out of the way so the inspector can easily walk the perimeter.
Even the friendliest pets can be a distraction during a home inspection. If possible, take them with you or keep them in a quiet room with a note on the door.
Make sure the gas, water, and electricity are turned on, even if the house is vacant, so the inspector can test critical systems.
On inspection day, the inspector will test outlets, run water, check windows and doors, and document any issues they see. You don’t need to be present, but make sure they can move freely through the home without interruption.
They won’t:
They will:
Knowing what to expect during a home inspection helps you stay calm and confident as the buyer’s due diligence process unfolds.
Curious how long the process usually takes? Here’s a breakdown of typical home inspection timelines.
Once the inspection is complete, the buyer will review the report with their agent. Don’t panic if repairs are requested—most homes have a few items that come up.
Be ready to:
A little preparation now can make negotiations smoother and help keep your deal on track.
Working with sellers on a pre-listing inspection? Clear communication goes a long way.
Spectora helps you educate and impress both buyers and sellers, without adding extra work to your day. See how our advanced automation tools make it easy to keep clients informed.