How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

Preparing your home for a home inspection is integral to ensuring major issues stay within the process and create costly repairs or, worse outcomes.


An excellent first step is to conduct a basic pre-inspection of the major systems, such as the plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, and structural components.


Follow up with basic maintenance tasks such as clearing windows and exterior drainage cleaning gutters and downspouts, correcting landscaping lapses or overgrowth, and ensuring foundation areas remain free from debris or large objects.


Lastly, minor touch-ups like painting small spots on walls or any small cracks around windows can also help improve the outlook of a successful home inspection.


Knowing what to expect and preparing for a home inspection can make all the difference in completing a successful home sale.


What Happens in a Home Inspection?


A home inspection contingency should be added to any real estate offer, allowing the homebuyer to inspect their home and negotiate repairs before buying. To prepare for the home inspection, homeowners should go through their home inspection checklist.


Home inspection reports will tell a real estate agent what is functioning properly before you consider buying a home or selling your home. Check that utilities are active and all systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.) are in working order.


Clean up any clutter and empty basement storage that could obstruct views of areas needing inspection. Once an inspector has been hired, communicate access instructions and answer any questions they may have before their arrival. Lastly, be sure to leave your home during the appointment, as inspections are most effective with no distractions or interference from occupants.


Open Access to Areas


Preparing for a home inspection should be a top priority for any homeowner. Ensuring open access to all home areas is critical to inspect all aspects thoroughly.


It's also important to clear pathways to allow the entire inspector movement throughout the home and open any service and access panels that may need an inspection.


All utilities, such as water, gas, and electricity, should be actively running on inspection day, including carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.


Any recent updates or repairs should be documented and available if you need them. Taking these steps will help ensure a successful home inspection.


Replace Outdated Materials


Preparing for a home inspection can be an exciting and essential process. Before the review, replace outdated appliances and fixtures. By checking the condition of your home prior to an inspection, you can prevent any safety issues for the buyer. It can also effect the sale price for your property.


Make sure to replace burned-out lightbulbs, replace air filters, and clean up yard debris like overgrown shrubbery or dead leaves. Furthermore, clear out any cluttered corners or crawl space to give the inspector room to work.


Trim trees and bushes away from structures to make them more accessible. Lastly, make sure to provide some access to all areas of the home, such as an attic or basement, so they can do a thorough job of inspecting your property. With some due diligence before your home inspection, you’ll be one step closer to obtaining clearance on any potential problems with your property.


Check the Roof


When preparing for a home inspection, thoughtful and thorough preparation can make all the difference. You can check your roof for any wear or damage to get started. Make repairs to any apparent issues and check for missing or cracked shingles that may require professional repair.


Additionally, check pipes inside and outside the home for leaks, rust, or clogs, and check the condition of your siding to ensure it’s in good shape. Lastly, check all windows and doors, as well as attic ventilation, to ensure everything is functioning correctly.


Following these simple tasks will give you peace of mind that your property is fully prepared ahead of time so you can confidently enjoy the inspection experience.


Contact Scheidt Home Inspections Today!


At Scheidt Home Inspection, hiring a home inspector is easy and stress-free. Our experienced professionals come to you with industry knowledge that can help put your mind at ease as you navigate the real estate world.


With a short yet comprehensive report detailing our findings, we'll give you an informed and actionable opinion about the home or property you want to purchase. Our goal is to make hiring a home inspector simple so you can focus on making the best-informed decision possible. Don't hesitate - to contact us today and take advantage of our expertise in home inspections!



June 16, 2025
Protect Yourself & Your Deposit with a Third-Party Inspection in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger & Beyond Renting a new home or apartment is exciting—but it can also come with uncertainty. How do you know what damage existed before you moved in? What if your landlord tries to withhold your security deposit over issues you didn’t cause? That’s where Scheidt Home Inspection comes in.  We provide detailed Renters’ Inspections for houses, condos, and apartments across Fresno County to help tenants move in (and out) with confidence and legal protection. Whether you're a student at Fresno State, a young professional leasing a condo in River Park, or a family renting a home in Clovis or Sanger, we’ll inspect and document the condition of your rental before you take the keys—or before you turn them in. What is a Renters’ Inspection? A Renters’ Inspection, also known as a Move-In/Move-Out Inspection, is a third-party, unbiased evaluation of the property’s condition before or after a lease term. Unlike landlord-provided checklists, our inspections are conducted by licensed professionals who provide objective documentation—with timestamped photos and detailed notes. You’ll receive a comprehensive digital report that protects you from: Being blamed for pre-existing damage Disputes over wear and tear Unexpected move-out charges Security deposit deductions Poor maintenance follow-through by landlords Whether you’re renting short-term or long-term, this inspection gives you peace of mind and a documented record of what’s fair and accurate. Who Should Schedule a Renters’ Inspection? This service is ideal for: Tenants moving into a new rental home or apartment Students renting housing near Fresno State, Fresno City College, or Reedley College Military families leasing near Fresno Air National Guard Base Tenants preparing to move out and protect their deposit Parents helping young adults sign their first lease Renters in luxury developments, duplexes, or small multi-family units It’s especially helpful in cases where landlords are absent, unresponsive, or rely on vague inspection forms without photos or third-party oversight. If you're a renter in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, or surrounding areas—this service is for you. What’s Included in a Renters’ Inspection? Our inspections cover all visible and accessible areas of your rental, including: Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors (scuffs, stains, cracks) Doors and windows (locks, seals, screens, handles) Kitchen appliances (stoves, ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers) Bathrooms (fixtures, plumbing, ventilation) Electrical outlets, lighting, switches HVAC systems and thermostats Smoke detectors and CO monitors Exterior (where applicable): Entry doors, porch or patio areas Exterior lighting and safety features Garage (if included) Yard or shared property issues Each inspection includes detailed photo documentation, room-by-room notes, and clearly marked issues of concern. You’ll receive your digital report the same or next day—perfect for sharing with your landlord or property manager. Move-Out Documentation for Deposit Protection When it’s time to move out, many renters are blindsided by unexpected charges: carpet damage, wall scuffs, appliance issues, and more. Landlords may claim the unit was returned in poor condition—even when the damage was pre-existing. Our Move-Out Renters’ Inspection helps protect your rights with: Evidence of the home’s final condition Photo documentation of cleaned, undamaged surfaces Support for any disputes regarding damage Confidence during the walk-through with your landlord Move out on your terms. Let us document the truth with a full inspection before your final handoff. Where We Provide Renters’ Inspections Scheidt Home Inspection serves renters across Fresno County and the Central Valley, including: Fresno – Tower District, Woodward Park, Downtown, Sunnyside Clovis – Near Buchanan High School, Clovis Community College, or Sierra Vista Mall Sanger – Central Sanger, Greenwood Estates, Annadale Ave Madera, Reedley, Selma, Kerman, and surrounding towns Whether you’re moving into a downtown apartment, suburban condo, or single-family rental home, we’ll be there—on time, professional, and ready to protect your rental journey. Student-Friendly Rental Inspections We specialize in student and first-time renter inspections near local colleges and universities, including: California State University, Fresno (Fresno State) Fresno City College Reedley College Clovis Community College If you're moving into your first apartment or helping your college-aged child start off on the right foot, a third-party inspection is a smart investment. It keeps landlords accountable and gives students peace of mind during an already stressful transition. Parents: protect your students with a professional inspection—schedule before move-in day! Why Choose Scheidt Home Inspection? Locally owned & operated in Fresno County Thorough, room-by-room reporting with photo documentation Quick turnaround—reports delivered within 24 hours Unbiased third-party perspective—we work for you, not the landlord Experienced, licensed, and insured We’ve earned the trust of renters, students, parents, and property managers across the Central Valley by being fair, prompt, and meticulous. You deserve a smooth move-in and a stress-free move-out—and we’re here to help make it happen. Schedule Your Renters’ Inspection Today Before you sign that lease or turn in your keys, protect yourself with a Renters’ Inspection from Scheidt Home Inspection. One report could save you hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars in deposit disputes, unexpected repairs, or legal stress.
February 7, 2025
When you're in the market for a new home in Fresno, CA, it's easy to get swept away by the excitement of house hunting. The picturesque views, vibrant neighborhoods, and growing communities make Fresno a desirable place to settle down. However, amidst all the excitement, one critical step should never be overlooked: the pre-purchase home inspection. At Scheidt Home Inspection, we understand how significant this investment is for you. That's why we provide comprehensive home inspection services tailored to the Fresno area, ensuring that your dream home doesn't come with hidden surprises. What Is a Pre-Purchase Home Inspection? A pre-purchase home inspection is a thorough evaluation of a property's condition before finalizing the purchase. It covers everything from the foundation to the roof, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and more. For buyers in Fresno, understanding the true condition of a home can prevent costly repairs down the line. Why Are Pre-Purchase Home Inspections Essential in Fresno, CA? 1. Identify Hidden Issues Fresno’s climate—hot summers and mild winters—can impact homes in unique ways. High temperatures can wear down roofs, and older plumbing systems may not handle the area's seasonal water demands efficiently. A professional inspection ensures you know about these potential issues before signing the dotted line. 2. Save Money in the Long Run An upfront investment in a pre-purchase inspection can save you from unexpected repair costs later. Whether it’s identifying outdated wiring or structural concerns, Scheidt Home Inspection can help you budget for necessary repairs or negotiate with the seller. 3. Peace of Mind Knowing your prospective home is in good condition—or understanding what needs to be addressed—allows you to make confident decisions. Our inspectors provide detailed reports that empower you to proceed with your purchase or explore other options. Key Components of a Home Inspection At Scheidt Home Inspection, we focus on the key elements that matter most to Fresno homebuyers: Foundation and Structure: Ensuring your home is stable and free from cracks or settling issues. Roof Inspection: Identifying any signs of wear, leaks, or damage from Fresno’s intense summer heat. Electrical Systems: Checking for faulty wiring or outdated panels. Plumbing: Examining pipes, fixtures, and water heaters to ensure efficiency and safety. HVAC Systems: Evaluating heating and cooling systems to ensure they function correctly. Why Choose Scheidt Home Inspection in Fresno, CA? As a trusted name in the Fresno home inspection industry, Scheidt Home Inspection is committed to delivering top-notch service. Our local expertise means we understand the unique challenges homes in the Fresno area face. With detailed inspections and easy-to-read reports, we help you make informed decisions about your potential home.
Failed Home Inspection: What Leads to It
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Buying and selling a house is a stressful endeavor. The last thing you need is an inspector to find something wrong with your property. Inspections are an excellent tool for homebuyers to understand the nature of their new home, and without an inspection, you may be forced to pay thousands of dollars in repairs....