All utilities including electrical service, water service and gas supply should be available and active. Equipment should be ready to operate; electrical circuit breakers and gas supply valves should be on and pilot lights should be active at gas furnaces, water heaters, etc.

All areas of the home should be made accessible for the inspection. Access and sufficient inspection space around heating / air conditioning equipment, kitchen appliances, electrical panel boxes, and other inspected equipment should be provided.

Access openings to attic areas should be readily accessible. For example, if an access opening is located within a closet all items that would preclude easy access, such as placement of a ladder, should be moved.

Pets should be secured or caged. There is the potential for the inspectors being injured and the inspectors can not be responsible for pets running away when doors are opened and closed.

Clients should Inform the inspectors of any particular concerns they have, such as problem areas that they observed or that have been disclosed to them.  Whenever possible, home buyers should obtain from the homeowner an up to date formal disclosure document that identifies known problems and any major repairs or changes that have been made.

Allow the inspectors to proceed with the inspection with as little interruption as possible. A proper inspection can only be accomplished when the inspectors can fully concentrate on the items being evaluated.