Published: September 15, 2024 | Closer Look Home Inspectors · InterNACHI Certified · Mankato, MN

Preparing Your Home for Inspection: Seller's Guide

By Closer Look Home Inspectors | (507) 721-3820

When a buyer schedules a home inspection on your Mankato property, proper preparation demonstrates care and can influence how findings are perceived. Here is what sellers should do to ensure a smooth inspection process.

Provide Full Access

The inspector needs access to every area of the home:

• Electrical panel: Remove items stored in front of it
• Attic access: Clear around the hatch or pull-down stairs
• Crawl space: Ensure the access point is reachable
• Furnace and water heater: Clear at least 3 feet around units
• All rooms: Unlock every door including storage areas and garages
• Exterior: Trim vegetation away from foundation and siding

Keep All Utilities On

The inspector must test all systems. Keep electricity, gas, and water active. If vacant during Mankato's winter, set thermostat to at least 55 degrees to prevent frozen pipes and allow HVAC testing.

Handle Pets

Remove pets or secure them in a crate. Inspectors open doors throughout the home and an escaped or aggressive pet creates problems for everyone involved.

Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs

A non-working fixture must be noted as a potential electrical issue since the inspector cannot verify if the problem is the bulb or wiring. Simply replacing bulbs eliminates unnecessary findings in the report.

Complete Minor Repairs

• Fix dripping faucets and running toilets
• Replace missing outlet and switch covers
• Repair loose handrails and cabinet hardware
• Ensure windows and doors open and close properly
• Replace worn weatherstripping around exterior doors
• Clean or replace HVAC filters

Prepare Documentation

Gather and leave out available records:

• Permits for recent work (additions, electrical, plumbing)
• HVAC service records showing regular maintenance
• Roof replacement or repair receipts with warranties
• Radon test results or mitigation installation records
• Warranty information for appliances and systems

Minnesota-Specific Preparation

• Clear snow and ice from walkways for safe exterior access
• Ensure sump pump is functioning and accessible in the basement
• Document any radon mitigation system maintenance history
• Check that foundation drainage directs water away from the home

What NOT to Do

• Do not stay home during the inspection (give the buyer privacy to ask questions freely)
• Do not try to hide problems (inspectors are trained to find them and concealment raises red flags)
• Do not paint over water stains without fixing the underlying source
• Do not block access to any area (this raises suspicion about what you are hiding)

A well-prepared home leads to a smoother inspection and stronger closing for everyone. Our comprehensive inspections are thorough but fair.

Contact Closer Look Home Inspectors at (507) 721-3820 or get your instant quote below.