PREPARING FOR A HOME INSPECTION

To prepare for a home inspection and receive the best home inspection report possible, we offer the following suggestions:

1. Make sure that all utilities will be on at the time of the scheduled home inspection. Electrical and plumbing components can only be tested if the power and water are turned on. QCI, Inc. home inspectors do not turn on main breakers in electrical panels, water at the meter, or water at the interior shut-off valves. Gas appliances can only be tested if gas is on at the time of inspection. QCI, Inc. inspectors do not light pilots on gas appliances.

2. Clients may accompany the inspector during the inspection, but should write down questions during the inspection to ask following the inspection. Areas of concern should be expressed prior to the home inspection if possible, or briefly during the inspection. The home inspector should be allowed to concentrate and focus on his checklist and the condition of the building components being evaluated.

3. If the home or building is occupied, arrangements should be made with the owner to access the property at the scheduled date and time. The owner should know that the inspection will take one to four hours (depending on the size of the home) and that pets should be removed, secured, or caged during the home inspection.

4. If the home or building is occupied at the time of inspection, certain areas may not be fully evaluated. QCI, Inc. home inspectors do not move furniture or stored items and some items may not be fully inspected in an occupied home. Prior to the inspection the homeowner should move any items that block access to electrical panels, HVAC equipment, water heater, attic, crawlspace, etc.