Be one step ahead of your inspector... It’ll impress them.
Selling a home is inherently stressful, but a surprise-filled inspection report doesn't have to be part of the process! Whether you're selling a single-family home or a condominium subject to state and local fire
safety codes, tackling common maintenance items before your property hits the market is the smartest way to ensure a smooth, swift closing.
The reality is that a property inspector or, in the case of a condo or multi-unit dwelling, the Fire Marshal, is looking for a long list of safety and maintenance compliance issues. Finding these items late in the game can lead to costly, last-minute repairs, buyer negotiations, and potentially delayed closing dates.
Here are some often-overlooked maintenance and safety items you should address before listing:
1. Fire Safety: It's More Than Just a Beep
Fire safety is paramount, and non-compliance will be a mandatory fix for many buyers and jurisdictions.
Smoke & CO Detectors: Yes, they expire! All smoke alarms have a working lifespan (check the back for the date!). Replace any that are expired or non-functional with photoelectric (not ionization). Ensure they are installed in the proper, required locations—call us for our handy guide!
Dryer Venting: Clean your dryer vent annually to remove built-up lint. More importantly, check the venting material. VT fire codes prohibit the use of flexible foil ducting— semi-rigid or rigid metal is approved.
2. Structural & Safety Compliance
Simple fixes to foundational safety features prevent negotiation headaches.
Handrails and Guardrails: Secure all railings on interior stairs, exterior steps, and decks.
Leaky Plumbing: Fix any visible leaks, from dripping faucets to under-sink drips. Inspectors will flag water damage—and potential mold—as a major concern.
3. Heating, Mechanicals, and Major Systems
Buyers want confidence in the expensive systems that keep the home running.
Heating Unit Service: Have your furnace or boiler professionally serviced and cleaned before listing. This demonstrates due diligence and ensures the system is operating safely and efficiently.
Chimney & Flue Cleaning: If you have a fireplace or wood stove, ensure the chimney or flue has been professionally cleaned and inspected within the last year. This is a crucial step for fire prevention.
Septic Pumping (if applicable): If your home uses a septic system, having it pumped and inspected just prior to listing provides buyers with information they might otherwise request with a contingency.
The Bottom Line: An Ounce of Prevention
Addressing these items proactively is not about spending money to impress a buyer; it's about pre-emptively resolving mandatory issues that you would be required to fix anyway. A clean inspection report accelerates the sale, reduces stress, and validates your asking price. Don't wait for the inspection to start your to-do list— partner with us to prioritize these maintenance tasks for a smooth, stress-free closing! Unsure of what is actually needed? Call your your agent to schedule a brief visit.