Confirm the appointment, access, and utilities
Confirm the agreed date, arrival instructions, occupancy conditions, and authorized access. Utilities should be on only when safe and permitted; the inspector will not activate a shut-down service or operate a system without appropriate authorization.
Make major systems reachable
Clear reasonable working space around the electrical panel, water heater, heating and cooling equipment, attic opening, crawlspace opening, and other systems included in the agreement. The inspector does not move heavy furniture, appliances, storage, or personal belongings.
Unlock the agreed areas
Arrange keys or access for garages, gates, utility rooms, detached structures, roof access points, and other included areas. Do not share alarm codes or lockbox information through an ordinary website form.
Plan for pets and occupancy
Secure pets and explain any occupancy, tenant, child, or work-from-home conditions that could affect safe movement. The parties coordinating access should resolve transaction rules before the appointment.
Gather context without expecting a document audit
Known repair records, warranties, or a short question list may help the conversation. A standard inspection does not verify every document, permit, disclosure, or warranty, and the inspector should not be expected to decide whether a transaction should proceed.
Avoid rushed cover-ups
Do not conceal a condition or make a cosmetic change merely to hide visible evidence. If a repair was recently performed, make the area reasonably accessible and share accurate context when appropriate.
Understand what will not be moved
Furniture, connected appliances, floor coverings, stored belongings, finishes, and insulation may conceal conditions. Those limitations belong in the report when they materially affect the inspection.
If an important area is inaccessible
The report should identify the limitation. Depending on the property and transaction, the client may discuss a separately agreed return visit or evaluation by an appropriate specialist.
Printable checklist
- Utilities on and safe to operate
- Keys and access arranged
- Major systems reachable
- Pets secured
- Client questions collected
- Property details sent
Takeaway
Safe access and accurate property context are more useful than cosmetic preparation.
Educational-use notice: This guide is general education. It does not replace the signed inspection agreement, a property-specific inspection or report, or advice from an appropriately licensed or qualified professional.
Review the Full Inspection Scope