Exterior

• There should be at least six inches of clearance between grade/mulch and siding.
  
• Dirty gutters and debris should be cleaned from the roof. Replace any worn or curling shingles.
  
• Basement entry drains should be cleaned out as well.
  
• The grade of the land should slope away from the home so that water is diverted away from the house.
  
• Downspouts, sump pumps, condensation drains and the like should all drain away from the home.
  
• Trees, roots and bushes should be trimmed away from the home’s foundation, roof, siding and chimney.
  
• All weathered exterior wood should be painted.
  
• Caulking should be placed around the chimney, windows and doors.
  
• Rotting wood and/or firewood should not be in contact with the house.
  
• Decks should be properly graded.
  
• If the asphalt driveway is cracking, it should be sealed.
  
• Masonry chimney caps should be sealed or pointed up. Metal flue caps should also be installed on chimneys.
  
• Any faulty mortar joints in a home’s brick or block should be repaired.
  
• All doors and windows must be in proper working condition. If windowpanes are cracked, sellers need to have them repaired or replaced.

• The home’s HVAC filter should be cleaned or replaced and furnace serviced and inspected.
  
• Dirty air returns and plenum need to be cleaned.
  
• Make sure any burned out light bulbs are replaced.
  
• Ensure all smoke detectors work
  
• Ensure the attic is properly ventilated
  
• Have a professional clean the chimney and fireplace or wood stove (keep a copy of this receipt).
  
• Plumbing fixtures, including toilet, tub, shower and sinks, should be in proper working order. Any leaks must be fixed and caulking should be done around fixtures if necessary.
  
• The sump pump should be operating properly.
  

Miscellaneous items

• If applicable, make sure that vapor barriers are installed and crawl spaces are dry.
  
• Remember to remove any paints, solvents, gas and similar materials from crawl spaces, basements, attics, porches, etc.
  
• Access to the crawl space, attic, heating system, garage and other areas the inspector will look should be clear.
  
• If not already in place, GFCI receptacles must be installed near all water sources.
  
• Masonry walls in the basement need to be sealed.
  
• Window wells and covers need to be in place if windows are at or below grade.
  
• If house is vacant, all utilities must be turned on, including water, electric, water heater, furnace, air conditioning and breakers in the main panel.