What to Fix and Check Before a Home Inspection

Getting ready for a home inspection? Whether you're preparing to sell or just want peace of mind about your home's condition, taking care of a few key things ahead of time can save you money, stress, and surprises. A smooth inspection doesn’t just impress buyers—it can speed up your sale and cut down on back-and-forth negotiations later.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you know what to fix and check before the inspector shows up.

Exterior: Make a Great First Impression

Roof & Gutters

• Start at the top—literally. If your roof has missing shingles or signs of wear, it could raise red flags. If you spot damage, consider bringing in a pro.

• Clean out your gutters while you're at it. Clogged gutters = potential water damage.

Siding & Windows

• Look for cracks in siding, gaps around windows, or weather-worn caulking.

• A little re-caulking can go a long way in preventing drafts and water intrusion.

Yard & Landscaping

• Trim back overgrown bushes, especially if they’re touching the home.

• Mow the lawn, pull weeds, and tidy up garden beds. It adds instant curb appeal and shows pride of ownership.

Interior: What Inspectors (and Buyers) Will Notice

Walls & Ceilings

• Patch any holes or dents and give scuffed walls a fresh coat of paint.

• Check for signs of moisture—especially in basements, bathrooms, or near windows.

Floors & Carpets

• Fix any loose tiles or squeaky floorboards.

• Shampoo or replace worn, stained carpeting—clean floors always make a better impression.

Doors & Windows

• Open and close every door and window. Make sure locks work, nothing sticks, and everything feels solid.

• Don’t forget to oil squeaky hinges

• Make sure the doorbell works

Systems & Appliances: Behind-the-Scenes Matters

HVAC (Heating & Cooling)

• Replace filters and test your system. Better yet, schedule a professional service if it’s been a while.

• Make sure thermostats are working and set to a comfortable temperature during showings or inspections.

Plumbing

• Run all the faucets and check under sinks for leaks. Even small drips can raise concerns.

• Flush toilets, check water pressure, and test drains for slow clogs.

Electrical

• Test every light switch and outlet. Replace anything that doesn’t work.

• Make sure all bulbs are working

• Consider upgrading bathroom or kitchen outlets to GFCI if needed.

Safety Features: Simple Fixes That Matter

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Press the test buttons and replace old batteries.

• If your units are over 10 years old, it’s time to swap them out.

Fire Extinguishers

• Check that yours isn’t expired and is easily accessible.

Handrails & Stairs

• Tighten loose railings and repair any unstable steps. These are small fixes that speak volumes to buyers and inspectors alike.

Bonus Tip: Gather Your Paperwork

If you've recently had any repairs or upgrades done—think HVAC service, roof replacement, plumbing work, or electrical updates—keep those records handy. Buyers and inspectors alike appreciate seeing maintenance history. It shows your home has been well cared for.

Also, make sure you’re aware of disclosure requirements in your area. If you know of past issues or current concerns, it’s better to be upfront than risk delays or deal breakers later.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of these areas before a home inspection isn’t just about avoiding a bad report. It’s about showing that your home has been loved, maintained, and is ready for the next chapter. You don’t need to aim for perfection—but checking off these basics can help your home shine, reduce last-minute stress, and make for a smoother sale.

Remember: a little prep now means fewer surprises later.