Can Sellers Or Buyers Be Present In The Home Inspection?

How Can I Be Involved in the Home Inspection?

Home inspections are a normal part of buying or selling a home. Whether you're the buyer or the seller, it helps to know your role and what to expect.

 

If You’re the Buyer

As the buyer, you should attend the home inspection. It’s your chance to:

• See any issues the inspector finds
   
• Ask questions about the home's systems (like plumbing or heating)
   
• Learn how to use things like the water shut-off, sprinklers, and electrical panel
   

 

What to Expect

The inspection usually takes 2 to 3 hours. You don’t need to follow the inspector around the whole time, but it's good to be present.

 

What to Bring

• Pen and notebook to write things down
   
• Seller’s disclosure forms (if you got them)
   
• Any previous inspection reports
   

These will help the inspector look into areas that may already be known problems.

 

What to Wear

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You might walk through tight or dusty spaces, or step into the attic or basement. You don’t need to crawl under the house, but seeing things in person helps.

 

Questions You Can Ask

Feel free to ask questions—but wait until the inspector has time. Don’t rush them.

Smart questions include:

• Is this a serious problem?
   
• Should I fix this right away?
   
• Is this common for a home this age?
   
• Do I need a specialist to look at this more closely?
   

 

Why It Matters for Buyers

Being there helps you understand the condition of the home before you buy it. You can use the report to:

• Ask the seller to fix some problems
   
• Ask for a lower price
   
• Decide what to repair later
   

It also helps you feel confident about what you're buying.

 

If You’re the Seller

Sellers usually don’t attend the buyer’s inspection. Why? Because:

• Your presence might make the buyer feel uncomfortable
   
• It could hurt your chance of getting a good offer
   
• Buyers may not ask questions if you’re watching
   

Even if you want to defend your home or explain things, it’s better to stay away and let the inspector and buyer do their job.

 

What Sellers Can Do Instead

If you’re the seller:

• Do a pre-listing inspection before putting the house on the market
   
• Fix anything major ahead of time
   
• Leave the house clean and easy to inspect (unlock doors, clear paths, etc.)
   

This shows buyers that you’ve taken good care of the home.

 

Final Thoughts

If you're buying a home, attend the inspection and ask questions. If you're selling, give buyers space and prepare your home ahead of time. Knowing your role in the inspection process makes everything go smoother and builds trust between both sides