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How to Get Ready for a Home Inspection

Fort Worth Home Inspection

Before your home goes on the market, it’s a smart idea to do your own detailed inspection. You can go through the home yourself using a checklist like the one below, or hire a professional inspector to help you identify anything that might show up in a buyer’s inspection report. The goal is to catch issues early, so they don’t become a surprise that threatens the sale later.

How to Get Ready for a Home Inspection

You’ve spent weeks—or maybe even months—getting your house ready to go on the market. You’ve worked alongside your real estate agent, a stager, a lender, and possibly a contractor to get everything in top shape, hoping for the best return on your investment. After listing your home and waiting with anticipation, the good news finally comes: you get an offer you’re thrilled with!

The excitement builds as you begin mentally moving on to your next chapter—and maybe even browsing listings for your next home. Then reality hits. Your agent emails you a copy of the buyer’s inspection report, and it lists several major issues. Now the buyer wants everything fixed before moving forward, or the deal could fall apart.

It’s a stressful situation—but one that’s completely avoidable.

20 Key Areas to Review Before the Home Inspection

1. Windows & Screens

Check for cracked or broken panes and damaged or missing screens. Also look for foggy windows—especially double-pane windows with failed seals.

2. Paint Condition

Look for peeling, bubbling, or cracking paint on your home’s exterior. Fresh paint in worn-out areas can improve curb appeal and prevent inspection flags.

3. Caulking

Inspect caulking around windows, doors, and other exterior seams. Cracked or missing caulk should be replaced to prevent moisture issues.

4. Siding & Trim

Secure or replace any loose boards. If you’re doing any siding replacement, match the existing color and style for a seamless appearance.

5. Decks & Fences

Check for loose boards, wobbly railings, and insecure fence panels. Make simple repairs to ensure everything is sturdy and safe.

6. Drainage

Rainwater should flow away from your foundation. Ensure the ground slopes away from the home for at least the first three feet. Add extensions to downspouts if needed.

7. Gutters

Clean out your gutters, especially if they’re visible from upper-level windows. Clogged or overflowing gutters often get flagged on inspection reports.

8. Roof

Consider getting a roofer to check for minor issues ahead of time. If you make repairs, you may even be able to obtain a roof certification to reassure buyers.

9. Outdoor AC Unit

Clear away leaves, plants, or debris from the area around the unit. Good air flow helps it function properly.

10. Garage Door Safety

Test the auto-reverse function using the sensor beam and resistance test. If the door doesn’t reverse properly, it may need adjustment or repair.

11. HVAC & Water Heater

Make sure these systems are functioning and properly installed. 

12. Shower and Tub Seals

Inspect grout and caulking for cracks or mold. Re-grout or re-caulk as needed to keep water from seeping behind tiles.

13. Ceiling Fans

Confirm all ceiling fans operate at different speeds and don’t wobble. Replace any non-functioning units.

14. Light Fixtures

Replace any burned-out bulbs in ceiling lights and hardwired fixtures. Inspectors test them all, and a non-working bulb could suggest a wiring issue.

15. Electrical Outlets

Use a basic outlet tester to check all outlets, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and exterior areas. Replace any faulty outlets and cover any exposed wires.

16. Plumbing

Check under sinks for signs of moisture. Run water in all sinks and tubs to ensure they drain quickly. Clean out any slow drains.

17. Toilets

Flush all toilets to make sure they work properly and don’t leak or shift when sat on. Replace the flapper valve or mounting bolts if needed.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors


Ensure you have functioning detectors in all the right places—inside and outside of bedrooms and on every level of the home. Replace batteries and test them before the inspection.

19. Stairs and Railings


Inspect handrails and stair balusters to make sure they are securely fastened and safe.

20. Kitchen Appliances

If appliances are included in the sale, make sure they all work. Run the dishwasher through a full cycle, test the oven and range, and make sure the vent fan operates correctly.

Bonus Tips

  • Environmental Concerns: In some areas, buyers may request additional tests for radon, mold, or other environmental hazards. If you’re in a region like Colorado Springs, radon tests are fairly common.
  • Window Functionality: Test every window in the house to ensure they open, close, and lock properly. Lubricate tracks and clean dirt buildup to improve movement.
  • General Condition: Inspect each room for signs of water damage, foundation movement (like cracks in drywall or uneven floors), and loose or damaged flooring.