Pre-Inspection Checklist: Basic Homeowner Maintenance

This list is limited to basic, low-risk homeowner maintenance and visual checks. Items requiring disassembly, specialized tools, or work beyond basic homeowner-level maintenance are excluded.
The purpose is to reduce minor or maintenance-related findings so all parties can focus on material conditions and avoid unnecessary distractions.

For clarification on any item, submit an information request through the contact form.

Exterior

☐ Trim foliage away from siding and roof surfaces
☐ Reattach loose downspouts or extensions
☐ Secure loose exterior light fixtures; replace if damaged
☐ Relocate stored items away from the house
☐ Verify downspouts are connected to drains or extensions that direct water away from the foundation
☐ Remove crawlspace vent covers and debris blocking ventilation openings
☐ Verify crawlspace vent screens are intact and free of openings
☐ Clean excessive debris from gutters (if safely reachable)
☐ Remove excessive debris from roof surfaces (if safely reachable)

Garage

☐ Test auto-reverse safety feature on garage door opener
☐ Install or adjust self-closing hinge at door to interior (WA requirement)
☐ Seal visible openings at the garage-to-house wall or ceiling

Electrical

☐ Replace burnt-out light bulbs
☐ Install missing or damaged cover plates (outlets, switches, blank covers)
☐ Test smoke alarms; replace units over 10 years old (with like kind); install in bedrooms if not originally equipped
☐ Verify carbon monoxide alarms are installed on each level and within 15 feet of sleeping areas
☐ Verify exterior outlets have proper weather-protective covers
☐ Secure loose outlets, switches, and light fixtures
☐ Test GFCI outlets and AFCI breakers using built-in test buttons
☐ Verify electrical breakers are labeled where known

Plumbing

☐ Check for leaks at sinks and exposed plumbing connections
☐ Address slow drains at sinks, tubs, and showers where readily accessible
☐ Verify shower heads do not leak and have normal spray patterns

Interior / General

☐ Verify sealant is intact at tub or shower floor joints, fixture penetrations, and countertop backsplashes
☐ Clean or replace kitchen vent hood grease filter
☐ Clean bathroom exhaust fan covers and verify operation
☐ Verify dishwasher is secured to cabinet
☐ Verify garbage disposal operates properly
☐ Confirm range anti-tip device is installed
☐ Confirm high-loop or backflow protection is present at dishwasher drain line
☐ Verify windows open, close, and latch properly
☐ Verify doors latch and operate freely and that door stops are installed
☐ Verify weatherstripping at exterior and garage doors is intact and seals properly
☐ Secure stair handrails, guardrails, and balustrades
☐ Secure loose floor transition strips

HVAC / Fireplace

☐ Replace HVAC filters or clean if reusable type
☐ Clean debris from wood-burning fireplaces
☐ Clean dust and debris from gas fireplace compartments

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