Before your home inspection, be sure to complete a pest inspection checklist. This will help you identify any potential pests or issues before your inspector arrives, ensuring that your inspection is as smooth as possible. During the inspection, be on the lookout for any pests or other potential issues. If you find anything during the inspection, take pictures and report it to your inspector. After the inspection, be sure to seal all cracks and openings in doors and windows, vacuum and clean all surfaces where pests may have been present, and change all light bulbs. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transaction and a healthy home.
What to do before the inspection
In the days leading up to your inspection, take some time to review the checklist below. This will help you be as prepared as possible for what your inspector may ask of you.
Preparation Checklist:
-Write down any problems you’ve noticed in recent months or weeks. These could include structural issues such as water damage, rodent activity, or poor foundation conditions.
-Check all appliances and wiring for signs of pests or tampering.
-Clean gutters and downspouts; check for obstructions and debris.
-Remove all flowers, shrubs, leaves, tree branches and other material that could provide cover for pests or serve as food sources.
-Check windows and doors for evidence of tampering or pest entry (e.g., broken screens).
-Flush all toilets and drains; turn off water valves to sinks and tubs if necessary.
-Clean chimneys and flues; examine rooflines and flashing for signs of deterioration.
-Examine the exterior of the home for potential signs of abuse or neglect including cracks in siding, peeling paint, tilted trim, missing fascia boards or window trim, etc.
Write down any problems you’ve noticed in recent months or weeks. These could include structural issues such as water damage, rodent activity, or poor foundation conditions.
-Check all appliances and wiring for signs of pests or tampering.
-Clean gutters and downspouts; check for obstructions and debris.
-Remove all flowers, shrubs, leaves, tree branches and other material that could provide cover for pests or serve as food sources.
Check windows and doors for evidence of tampering or pest entry (e.g., broken screens).
-Flush all toilets and drains; turn off water valves to sinks and tubs if necessary.
-Clean chimneys and flues; examine rooflines and flashing for signs of deterioration.
-Examine the exterior of the home for potential signs of abuse or neglect including cracks in siding, peeling paint, tilted trim, missing fascia boards or window trim, etc.
Write down any problems you’ve noticed in recent months or weeks. These could include structural issues such as water damage, rodent activity, or poor foundation conditions. Read more about roofing services san mateo.
What to do during the inspection
Home inspection checklist: what to do before, during and after
What to do after the inspection
Preparation is key before, during and after a home inspection. Here are five steps to follow:
1. Make a list of questions you want answered during the inspection. This will help you compile your list of items to address during the inspection.
2. Prepare any documentation that is required for the inspection, such as photos or drawings of any issues noted during the walk-through.
3. Arrive at the inspection with plenty of time to spare – avoid arriving early in case there are delays or unforeseen circumstances.
4. Be polite and respectful to your inspector, and allow them enough time to conduct the inspection without interruption.
1. Review your home’s foundation, framing and roofing for potential signs of pest infestation according to this checklist:
-Are there places where pests can gain entry? (eaves, windows/doorsills, attic spaces)
-Are holes in walls or ceilings big enough for insects or animals to crawl through?
-Are there areas around vents, pipes or wires where critters could reside?
-Do any areas look wet or damaged from rain/snow buildup?
Conclusion
Before an inspector arrives, take the time to do a pest inspection checklist. This will help you identify any issues before they are brought up during the home inspection. Inspect for evidence of pests such as droppings, holes in walls or ceilings caused by insects, and structural damage from pests nesting. During the home inspection, look for indications of pests such as crawling insects or damp patches on walls or ceilings. Report any findings to your inspector at the conclusion of the inspection. After the home inspection is complete, make sure to follow through with any actions recommended by your inspector and take steps to prevent future pest problems.
