02/16/2026
🏠 Top 10 Things to Do to Prepare for Your Tip Top Home Inspection
A smooth inspection helps avoid delays, repeat visits, and unnecessary concerns. These simple steps help ensure your inspection goes "Tip Top" from start to finish.
1️⃣ Ensure All Utilities Are ON
Electricity, gas, and water must be active. TREC requires inspectors to operate systems as they exist on inspection day—no utilities means limited inspection.
2️⃣ Clear Access to the Electrical Panel
The main panel and sub-panels must be accessible (36” clearance recommended). Please unlock closets or gates if panels are inside or behind fencing.
3️⃣ Provide Clear Access to the Attic
Remove stored items blocking attic access points and ensure pull-down stairs or scuttle holes can be opened safely.
4️⃣ Make the Water Heater Accessible
Clear at least 30 inches around the water heater. Inspectors must check the T&P valve, venting, drain pan, and installation height.
5️⃣ Unlock All Doors, Gates, and Outbuildings
Garages, backyard gates, sheds, detached structures, and electrical disconnects must be accessible for inspection.
6️⃣ Clear the Crawl Space or Pier & Beam Access
If applicable, ensure crawl space access hatches are visible, unlocked, and not obstructed. Stored items should be moved away.
7️⃣ Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs
Non-working lights may be reported as electrical issues if bulbs are missing or burned out—it’s an easy fix beforehand.
8️⃣ Secure Pets for Safety
Please kennel, crate, or remove pets during the inspection. This protects your animals and allows the inspector to fully access the property.
9️⃣ Ensure HVAC Systems Are Ready
Air filters should be installed, thermostats accessible, and systems operational if weather conditions permit operation under TREC SOP.
🔟 Address Simple Maintenance Items
While inspectors don’t expect perfection, taking care of the basics helps avoid red flags:
Missing smoke detectors
Loose handrails
Leaking faucets
Tripped GFCI/AFCI outlets
⭐ A Tip Top Reminder
A home inspection is a snapshot in time, not a pass/fail test. Preparing the home helps ensure the report reflects the property accurately—without unnecessary limitations.
If you have questions before inspection day, I’m always here and happy to help, give me a call.
David Barrett - (903) 987-1833