Good preparation does not mean hiding defects or making cosmetic changes. It means creating safe, reasonable access to the areas and installed systems included in the agreed inspection scope.
Prioritize safe access
Clear personal belongings away from service panels, heating equipment, water heaters, attic openings, under-sink areas, and other agreed access points.
- Unlock agreed rooms, gates, garages, and utility spaces
- Secure pets before the inspector arrives
- Replace unsafe or missing access arrangements through the appropriate professional
- Tell the inspector about known hazards or restricted areas in advance
Keep normal utilities available
If the agreement expects installed systems to be operated using normal controls, the relevant utilities should generally be on and accessible. Do not ask an inspector to activate shut-down equipment or open systems that require specialist handling.
Share useful property information
Prior reports, repair invoices, permits, warranties, or notes about recent work can give the client useful context. Documentation does not replace inspection observations, but it can help everyone ask more informed questions.