Last week I was a presenter at a First Time Home Buyers’ seminar organized by the Bank of Montreal, after the presentation I was asked if a buyer should request the seller to prep the house for the home inspection.
I thought it was a great question so I wanted to share my answer ...
Ask your real estate agent to provide your home inspector access to the property and sufficient time. If this is a private sale, it is your responsibility to provide your home inspector access to the property with the consent of the seller.
Second, since home inspectors are not allowed to move or remove any furniture and items as it could damage the property, you may want to ask the seller to remove any storage items that may limit the visibility of the structure and systems. For example, attic hatch should not be sealed and electrical panel accessible, foundations wall clear of any storage etc..
Ask that all utilities will be on during the inspection so they can be inspected properly. Keep in mind that a home inspection is visual in nature, which means that your home inspector need sufficient access as much as possible to all the systems (electrical, plumbing, Heating/Cooling, Insulation etc.) as well as to structure components such as the foundation wall both interior and exterior.
During the inspection, the home inspector has to turn the electrical power off for a few minutes to open and inspect the electrical panel (new regulation). Ask the seller permission to do so otherwise the inspector will not be able to inspect the inside of the electrical panel.
Lastly, this is your inspection, remember that you are encouraged to be present and follow your inspector during the course of the inspection; the typical inspection takes about 3-4 hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. That allows you to ask questions and raise concerns, be prepared to come with comfortable shoes and dress appropriately according to weather (exterior inspection usually lasts about 30 – 45 minutes).
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