Home Inspection Checklist: 4 Top Tips to Prepare Your Home for Inspection in Minnesota
Introduction
Welcome to the Trailblazer Inspections blog! Whether you are preparing to sell your property or you’re a current homeowner protecting your investment, a smooth and accurate home inspection is crucial. Proper preparation is the key to ensuring your inspector can thoroughly assess every critical component of your property.
This home inspection checklist for Minnesota homeowners will guide you through the essential steps to prepare your residence. Following these simple tips helps us provide you with the most comprehensive and accurate report, giving you the complete confidence and peace of mind you deserve.
1. 🛠️ Clear Access to Key Home Systems
To perform a thorough assessment, the inspector must be able to reach all major mechanical and structural areas easily.
Electrical panels: Ensure the panel is fully accessible and that the surrounding area (usually 3 feet) is clear of storage items, boxes, or furniture.
HVAC systems and water heaters: Clear the immediate area around your furnace, air conditioner, and water heater.
Attics, basements, and crawl spaces: Ensure the access door or hatch is unsealed and easily accessible.
Plumbing: Clear out items stored under sinks, especially in kitchen and bathroom cabinets, so we can check for leaks and proper drainage.
Ensure all areas of the home are unlocked and accessible (including closets, bedrooms and garages).
2. 🧹 Declutter Spaces for Better Visibility
A tidy home is a great first step! Decluttering isn't just for showing the home; it allows your inspector to see everything clearly, identifying potential issues that clutter might hide.
Remove personal items, clutter, and furniture blocking access to walls, baseboards, doors, or windows.
Clear the area around the foundation outside the home.
3. 🔧Fix Minor Issues Before Inspection Day
Making small, inexpensive repairs ahead of time demonstrates that your home has been well-maintained and reduces the number of items noted in the final report.
Address leaky faucets and shower heads.
Replace burned-out light bulbs and faulty wall outlets.
Ensure all interior and exterior doors and windows open, latch, and lock smoothly.
Tighten loose handrails or cabinet hardware.
4. 🛡️Test All Safety and Water Systems
Ensure that all essential safety and functional systems are operating as expected prior to our visit.
Test that smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and safety systems are working correctly.
Check that all faucets, toilets, and major appliances (if included in the inspection) are functioning properly and without unusual noises.
Trailblazer Tip!
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Trailblazer Tip! 〰️
❄️ In our climate, ensure exterior hose bibs are properly shut off and walkways are accessible, even if there is snow on the ground!
Why This Home Inspection Checklist Matters
Proper preparation for your home inspection leads to a more accurate assessment and significantly reduces the likelihood of delays or the need for follow-up visits.
At Trailblazer Inspections, we pride ourselves on delivering detailed, thorough, and professional residential home inspections with attention to detail. We serve communities across Minnesota, including Farmington, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, and more providing sellers and buyers the ultimate peace of mind.
📞 Ready to Book Your Inspection?
Ensure a smooth and comprehensive property assessment for your home.
Contact Trailblazer Inspections today to schedule your Minnesota home inspection.