Prepare for an inspection: access and documents that materially improve the assignment.
Preparation is not about making the building look better. It lets the inspector observe more, understand history and reduce avoidable limitations.
Providing access and documents cannot guarantee that no problem exists; it improves the information available for the client’s decision.
Priority access points
Electrical panel, main water shutoff and water heater.
Attic, crawl space, basement and mechanical rooms.
Areas below sinks, around equipment and in front of openings.
Roofing, balconies, façades and outbuildings included in scope.
Most useful documents
Seller declarations and co-ownership documents.
Invoices and warranties for roofing, drainage, foundations, plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems.
Available specialist reports, insurance claims, permits and plans.
Maintenance contracts and logs for commercial properties.
What should be disclosed
Past water intrusion, intermittent odours, backups, failures, recurring repairs and recently corrected areas. A condition absent on inspection day may become understandable through accurate history.
Tenants and operations
For multi-unit or commercial properties, confirm access notices, keys, escorts and permitted hours. Identify someone familiar with the building and recent events.
Sources and references
The following sources frame and support this content. The service agreement and the standard applicable to the assignment remain controlling.