Pre-Inspection Checklist: Getting Your Billings Area Home Ready

Buying or selling a home in the greater Yellowstone County area is a major milestone, and the home inspection is a critical part of that journey. Whether you are in the heart of Billings or out in a quieter spot like Shepherd or Worden, the day of the inspection can feel a bit chaotic. However, a little preparation on the front end can make the process significantly smoother for everyone involved.

As an InterNACHI® Certified Inspector with Yellowstone Home Inspections, I often walk into homes where simple steps weren't taken, which can limit the scope of my visual inspection or slow down the process. This isn't about passing or failing; it's about ensuring I have the access and visibility needed to give you the most accurate information about the property. Here is a guide on how to get your home ready for my arrival.

Ensure Utilities Are On and Accessible

One of the most common hurdles I encounter during inspections in the Billings and Laurel areas is inactive utilities. To perform a thorough evaluation of the home's systems, everything needs to be operational.

• Gas, Water, and Electricity: Please ensure all utilities are turned on at the main service points. If the gas is off, I cannot properly test the furnace, water heater, or stove. If the water is off, I cannot check for leaks or evaluate water pressure.
• Pilot Lights: Check that pilot lights are lit on gas appliances, such as the furnace and water heater.
• Sewer and Water: If you are on a well and septic system—common in rural areas like Huntley or Ballantine—ensure the septic tank is accessible and that I have access to the well head.

If the utilities are off for any reason, please let us know in advance. While we can perform a visual inspection, we cannot verify that systems function correctly without running them. This also applies to specific services like a Sewer Scope Inspection; the main cleanout needs to be exposed for the camera to be inserted.

Clear Access to Key Areas

A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual process, which means I need to see and touch components to assess their condition. In many homes across Park City and Columbus, basements and attics serve as catch-all storage spaces, but blocking access to these areas can prevent a complete inspection.

Please clear a path to the following areas:

• Electrical Panels: Remove items stored in front of the main electrical panel and any sub-panels. I need at least three feet of working space and a clear line of sight to the breakers.
• HVAC Equipment: Ensure the furnace, air conditioner, and water heater are easily accessible. Move boxes, laundry, or seasonal gear that might block access to filters or shut-off valves.
• Attic and Crawlspace: Remove clutter from the attic access hatch (usually in a closet or hallway) and the crawlspace entry (often outside or in a garage floor). If these entries are painted shut or blocked by heavy furniture, I may not be able to enter them safely.

Exterior and Safety Preparations

Our Montana weather can be unpredictable, and the exterior condition of a home tells a significant part of the story. To ensure I can inspect the roof, foundation, and grading properly:

• Trim Vegetation: Trim back bushes and tree branches that touch the house. Overgrown shrubs can hide siding damage or provide a bridge for pests, and they often block the view of the foundation.
• Unlock Gates: If you have a fenced yard, leave any side or backyard gates unlocked. I need to access the perimeter to check the grading, siding, and exterior electrical outlets.
• Clear Decks and Patios: Move patio furniture, grills, and toys away from the exterior walls. This allows me to get close to the siding and windows to check for flashing issues or moisture intrusion.

Additionally, please plan for pets. Even the friendliest dogs can create a safety hazard when I am carrying ladders or navigating through rooms. It is best to secure pets in a crate, a specific room, or take them off-site during the inspection.

Gather Documentation and Maintenance Records

While I am there to observe the current condition of the home, knowing the history of the property provides valuable context. If you have documentation regarding repairs, replacements, or installations, having them ready is incredibly helpful.

• Roof and HVAC: If the roof has been replaced recently or the furnace is a new install, having the invoice or permit information handy helps verify the age and condition of these major systems.
• Environmental Testing: If you have previously had Radon Testing or Mold & Environmental Testing performed, sharing those results can provide a baseline for current conditions.

If you are a seller, leaving a folder of these records on the kitchen counter is a great professional touch. It shows transparency and helps the buyer understand the care you’ve put into the property.

Let Us Help You Understand Your Home

Preparing for a home inspection doesn't have to be stressful. By ensuring access to utilities and key areas, you are helping ensure that the inspection report is as comprehensive as possible. Remember, the goal isn't to find every minor imperfection, but to identify material defects that could affect the safety or value of the home.

If you are in Shepherd, Billings, or anywhere in the surrounding region, Yellowstone Home Inspections is here to help. Whether you need a Full Home Inspection, a standalone Sewer Scope Inspection, or want to add on Radon Testing for peace of mind, we are ready to assist. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or to schedule your appointment. We look forward to helping you navigate your real estate transaction with confidence.