This article is courtesy of Herb Ingram of Amerispec Home Inspections of Lancaster: 

Most likely, when an offer is presented to you for your home, it will contain some type of contingency related to the findings of a professional home inspection. In order for that process to go as smoothly as possible, you should have a good understanding of what the inspector will be evaluating, common problems that are found, and what you can do before the inspection to prepare your home.

First and foremost, make sure the inspector can get to the areas, systems and components of the home. Many people have trash, personal property, boxes, or other items blocking access to the water heater, electrical panel, heating system, plumbing lines, windows, entire rooms, even bathtubs filled with personal items.

Remember, an inspector is not permitted to move personal items or furniture, due to the risk of damage. This included items on windowsills, the toilet tank, counters, boxes, etc. Move items to the center of the room, if they must be there. When an inspector must return to a property to re-inspect a previously inaccessible area or areas, it delays the sales process and sellers may foot the bill for a re-inspection.

Check back for the next installment of this informative article from Herb Ingram of Amerispec Home Inspections (397-7047).

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