One step which is inevitable in the home selling process is a visit from a professional house inspector.

The following are steps which should be taken to ensure your inspection is a success.

It is a good idea to be aware ahead of time of any serious problems which may be present in your home so you will be prepared to deal with them.

1. Ensure that past home renovations have not damaged the structure the home. Other structural damages to look for are whether termites have caused extensive damage, if settling of the home over time has caused damage to the foundation, and/or whether support beams and joists are strong and sturdy or cracked or otherwise damaged.

2. Ensure that the electrical and wiring systems are safe and acceptable. Loose wires or incorrectly installed or wired receptacles, switches or electrical box problems are all hazardous and should be corrected. All homes should have a minimum of 100 amp service.

3. Ensure there are no leaks evident. Water can run and leak into odd and unexpected places, causing extensive damage over time. If there are signs of water leakage, they can quite be often spotted by examining the underside of sinks and dishwashers, along ceilings, on floors or along basement walls. Plumbing fixtures, water-using appliances, drain pipes, water supply inlets and outlets and basements and roofs can all be causes and sources of water damage.

4. Ensure that safety issues are resolved in your home. Trim foliage which may impair a safe view of the area around the home, ensure that windows open easily and close and lock securely and that entrances/exits to the home are able to be securely locked. Hazards such as hidden curbs, loose railings and/or stairs, unused wells which are not capped, etc., should be corrected.

5. With respect to plumbing, ensure that all fixtures are in good working and free from large cracks. Faucets should run easily and shut off completely, proper grouting and caulking should be present around bathtubs, toilets and other fixtures should be bolted down securely and drains should be clog free. The home's water heater should be in good working condition also.

6. All heating and cooling systems may have to be checked to ensure they are relatively up to date, clean, in good working condition and have clean filters. Refrigerant should be checked in any air conditioning units and may require proper servicing.

7. Also, a general, unbiased overview of your home by a neighbour or friend may reveal matters which need to be dealt with that you may overlooked.

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