PREPARING FOR YOUR HOME INSPECTION
Introduction
Getting ready for a home inspection?
Whether you're a buyer eager to confirm the home's condition or a seller hoping for a smooth process, preparation makes a big difference. A clean, accessible, and organized home helps the inspection go faster, reduces confusion, and sets a professional tone for everyone involved.
At Blue Canyon Home Inspections, we’ve completed over 2,500 inspections in Arizona, and we know what makes a home inspection run smoothly. Here’s your simple checklist for preparing for your inspection day.
1. Ensure Full Access to All Areas
Inspectors need to check every part of the property — not just the living spaces. Make sure these areas are unlocked and accessible:
Attic hatches
Electrical panels
Water heaters
HVAC systems
Crawl spaces (if applicable)
Garage areas
Gates to backyard or side yards
Tip: Move any stored items that might block access to key systems. If anything is inaccessible at the time of the inspection, we may have to come back to check those areas (i.e. the main electrical panel). Return trips can trigger a re-inspection fee.
2. Keep the Utilities On
A full inspection can’t be completed if the home doesn't have working electricity, water, or gas. If the property is vacant, double-check that all utilities are on before the inspector arrives.
Without utilities, inspectors can't test appliances, HVAC, plumbing systems, or electrical panels — all critical parts of a complete inspection.
3. Clean and Declutter the Home
A clean, tidy home isn’t just about appearances. It helps your inspector do their job more efficiently and makes it easier to spot potential issues.
You don’t need a deep clean, but clearing clutter from floors, counters, and utility areas allows for a more thorough and efficient inspection. Areas hidden with clutter can conceal latent defects, defects that we aren’t able to see at the time of the inspection. This can cause all sorts of issues for every party involved later down the road.
4. Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs and Install Batteries
If a light doesn't turn on during the inspection, it could be flagged as a defect — even if it’s just a dead bulb.
Similarly, replace dead batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to prevent unnecessary notes on the report.
Small tip, big payoff: These quick fixes can save confusion during the review process.
5. Take Care of Minor Repairs
Before the inspection, handle small maintenance items such as:
Tightening loose doorknobs
Repairing leaky faucets
Securing handrails
Replacing missing window screens
While these are typically minor, too many small issues can leave buyers with a negative impression about how the home was maintained.
6. Provide Repair or Upgrade Documentation
If you've recently repaired the roof, upgraded the HVAC system, or had a termite treatment, leave the paperwork available for review.
This helps verify the work and gives buyers confidence that the home has been properly maintained.
7. Plan to Be Away (Buyers and Sellers)
If you’re the seller, it’s best to vacate the property during the inspection.
This allows the buyer to walk through with the inspector comfortably and ask candid questions.
Typically, inspections take 2–4 hours, depending on the size of the home.
If you’re the buyer, plan to attend if possible! It's a valuable opportunity to learn firsthand about the home’s systems and maintenance needs.
8. Secure Pets
Make arrangements to keep pets safe and out of the way.
Even friendly pets can be a distraction during an inspection — and it helps avoid any accidental escapes through open doors.
Conclusion
A little preparation goes a long way.
By making your home accessible, functional, and presentable, you help ensure a smoother, more accurate inspection — and you set the right tone for the next steps of the transaction.
At Blue Canyon Home Inspections, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply looking for peace of mind, we’re ready to help.
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