Introduction
Hiring a professional home inspector Orange County is a smart move for all homebuyers. An inspection provides valuable insights into the true condition of a property and empowers negotiations around needed repairs.
For the process to go smoothly, advance preparation is needed. Certain steps before the inspector arrives can improve access, safety, and efficiency. Here are tips to prepare an Orange County home for the inspection:
Choose an Inspector
- Verify the inspector’s state certification and experience inspecting Orange County homes of similar age/style
- Read reviews and ask for sample reports to understand their inspection process
- Provide property details like year built, roof age, remodels etc. to inspector ahead of time
- Discuss any areas of concern to focus on more closely
Schedule the Inspection
- Allow 2-3 hours for inspection, plus 1 hour for review of findings afterward
- Schedule when all utilities are active, including water, power, gas, HVAC
- Avoid inspector rush periods like weekend mornings
- Arrange for pets to be secured off site to allow inspector full access
Notify the Sellers
- Inform sellers of the scheduled inspection with notice per purchase contract
- Explain areas that will be examined so they can perform pre-inspection repairs if desired
Clear Access to All Areas
- Remove stored items blocking attic access points, crawl space entry, electrical panels, water shut-offs, etc.
- Prune back vegetation impinging on the exterior
- Ensure attached garages, sheds, gates, and doors are unlocked
- Move furniture away from windows, electrical outlets, and entryways
Prep the Exterior
- Clear debris from roof, gutters, window wells, and the yard
- Trim back branches or foliage touching the home
- Fix loose siding, railings, shutters, gates, and fence boards
- Clean oil stains from driveway and repair cracked pavement
Interior Preparation
- Replace burnt-out light bulbs and dead batteries in smoke alarms
- Fix sticking doors, cracked floor tiles, torn screens, dripping faucets, etc.
- Test wall switches/outlets and repair as needed
- Make sure insulation, vapor barrier, and exhaust fans aren’t blocked in the attic
- Check for rodent droppings or nests around the home’s exterior
- Clean carpets and flooring to remove tripping hazards
Improve Curb Appeal
- Touch up exterior paint, repair walkways, update house numbers and lighting
- Clean up landscaping, pools, patios, and exterior structures
- Power wash surfaces like siding and decks where needed
- Remove peeling paint and re-paint where the inspector might see
Ask Neighbors to Restrain Pets
- Beware of loose dogs that could interfere with outdoor inspection
- Avoid lawn care crews that could impede inspection with noise
Be Present and Take Notes
- Plan to accompany the inspector and ask questions
- Bring a notepad to record recommended repairs and further specialists to call
- Discuss unclear aspects of report before inspector leaves site
Quick Fixes to Avoid
- Don’t make last-minute superficial fixes to “fool” the inspector
- Don’t hide bigger underlying issues with a quick cover-up
- Inspectors are trained to recognize temporary repairs
Preparing for a home inspection is about safety and transparency – not cosmetics. A smooth inspection day allows the process to deliver the information you need. Advance preparation promotes full access, better interactions, and an improved understanding of the property. With a professional inspection in hand, you can proceed confidently with one of life’s biggest investments. Read more
