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Seller Information and To-do List for the Upcoming Home Inspection

A guide for sellers from At Ease Property Inspections:


If you want to go straight to the Seller To-Do List -> Please Click to View -> SELLER TO DO LIST

Introduction to At Ease Property Inspections

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Dear Seller,

We would like to express our sincere gratitude for allowing us with At Ease Property Inspections to inspect your home. As the property owner, we believe you deserve a clear understanding of the process, and we want to assure you that we approach every inspection with respect and professionalism.

Home inspections have become an essential part of the real estate process during the modern century, and our company is proud to provide high-quality, thorough reports. When At Ease Property Inspections does a property evaluation, we are considerate of homeowners and take care to treat your property with respect, leaving everything exactly as we found it. More Details in the FAQ

A clean, white sedan is parked on an asphalt driveway near a residential property. The car is the main subject, contrasting with the muted, overcast grey sky and the surrounding natural tones of the Okanagan region. In the background, a sign or logo is partially visible, indicating the location is likely near the home inspection company At Ease Property Inspections. The scene evokes the professional yet serene atmosphere of the company's service area on a typical, cloudy day.

The Inspection Process

A normal inspection takes three to four hours, and our process begins with the surrounding spaces of the property. We then move inward and upward to inspect the roof, exterior envelope, garage, and other external building components if applicable. Afterward, we shift our focus to the interior from the utilities, to the basement, and work our way up to the attic.

Our team assesses key building components such as the home’s structure including any crawlspaces and the attic, HVAC & water systems, electrical, and plumbing. We also access and test in all living spaces for functionality, including doors, windows, fixtures, and other usable home experience.

It is important to confirm that all our inspections are visual only. This means that none of the process is destructive and all areas of the home will be exactly as when we arrived.

We then usually do a walkthrough at the end of the process with the clients discussing our findings. Our walkthrough process has been developed to provide all the necessary information for a client. This generally includes Running the house/Shut Off locations, any Summary items and a discussion around what it means, and any other questions the clients might have. We are a firm believer that all information is good information!

Our Report and Walkthrough Method

As a certified professional property inspector, our goal is to provide an honest report of the home’s condition with no bias for either side. We do not look for problems just to justify our services. If there are no 'Summary Conditions" level items, our report will represent that. 

Our aim is to provide helpful insights and education for the potential new buyers for when they move into the home on what to expect or prepare for. These can include discussion around best practices, conditions that are relevant and typical for homes of a similar age, maintenance tips, or other dialogue to help homeowner knowledge.

Erich, a dedicated inspector with At Ease Property Inspections, is meticulously examining the plumbing beneath a sink in a Kelowna home. His focused expression and careful posture highlight his commitment to a quality, detailed approach in every inspection. The scene captures his hands-on method, ensuring no detail is overlooked in providing thorough property assessments for clients in the Okanagan region.

Points of Interest:

We are happy to accommodate any requests you have during the inspection process. Some homeowners prefer to stay during the inspection, many organize to be away from the property during the inspection. We are comfortable with either approach. The goal is to have a simple, unobtrusive inspection process. More Details in the FAQ

Sometimes people don't want certain areas or rooms inspected. This is your right and choice as a seller. make sure your realtor is informed so this can be documented through the process.

Learn More:

Some Interesting and useful links you might also want to view:

Services At Ease Property Inspections can provide:

10 Most Common Problems Found in Home Inspections

WETT (Wood Burning Device) Inspections

How You Can Help Streamline the Process:

List of Seller Processes to Complete:

Some pieces that would truly help this process, if possible, would be:

  1. Clear access to: the attic hatch, electrical panel(s), water shut-off, furnace, outbuildings
  2. Turn on the lights at the home.
  3. Have all remotes for home fixtures visible in the rooms of use. This could be for fans, fireplaces, lights, or windows
  4. Inform your agent of any pets and the plan/process with them. taking them out of the house is best practice, to prevent any surprises
  5. Run a load of laundry in the washing machine, dryer, and also dishes in dishwasher before leaving the home
  6. Unlock all surrounding property gates
  7. Light the pilots on Fireplaces (if necessary)

Thank you again for your willingness to assist and for making this inspection possible. If you have any questions about our process or services, we would be happy to assist.

More in Depth Discussion on Preparing Your House for a Home Inspection

Ask Us Any Questions!

Verified Reviews from Inspection Clients

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kyle G.
Pineview, Kamloops, BC
Erich was so great and very professional. You can feel the level of care that he has for his job and company...
The communication was amazing, the process was easy, and the knowledge we gained was so valuable. Highly recommend for any future home inspections. At Ease Property Inspections (Owner) 5 days ago Good morning Kyle, thank you for the review. You would be correct in your statement that I care, alot! This is one of your biggest life purchases. I need to make sure I bring my A game to every single inspection so the clients get the Most education and knowledge possible on their new home, equipping them with the confidence and skills to fix, maintain, and flourish going forward. Good luck with the new place and any future questions let me know!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steve O.
Realtor, Vernon, BC
As a real estate agent I want my clients do have the best protection possible when buying or selling their home. Erich has consistently proven himself...
to be thorough in his evaluation of a home’s ‘health’ and honest and practical in his delivery and interpretation of the results. My clients are better aware of the property and often less stressed thanks to Erich’s calm demeanour. A+A+A+ for At EASE PROPERTY INSPECTIONS!!! At Ease Property Inspections (Owner) 2 months ago Good Morning Steve. Thank you for the AAA plus ultra review! I approach all inspections with the view of "if I was buying this house what would I want to know". Of course the answer is "everything", which is not reasonable, but all the major items, much of the minor stuff documented for future repairs, and finally the highlights paths to get those major items repaired so I have the plan while moving forward. Good luck with future clients and see you again soon!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kris K.
East Hill, Vernon, BC
Erich Kamprath is incredibly knowledgeable, thorough, and easy to communicate with. He came recommended to me...
by my realtor and I am certainly glad I chose his services to do the home inspection. His walkthrough with me was very detailed and I am confident that nothing was missed in the home inspection. He alleviated the stress of the home inspection and future remedies that may be required. His paper reports are easy to read and well laid out, I appreciate being able to review the document on my own time after the walkthrough and still understanding everything contained within. I will certainly recommend him to any of my friends purchasing a house and will be talking to him in the future when the time comes again to sell my house. At Ease Property Inspections (Owner) 2 months ago Good Morning Kris. Thank you for the fantastic review! The walkthrough is so important as it's a chance for you to reacquaint yourSelf with the home, But also view the home from the eyes of a professional that tells you the good and the of note. Making it and the report as simple and to the point prevents confusion and increases understanding. Good luck with the new house and any future questions let me know!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
J Giv.
Rayleigh, Kamloops, BC
Erich was professional and personable. He answered all of our questions...
(even the probably really obvious ones) and was really positive about the plans we had in store for the home he had just inspected for us. He gave great insight into what should get taken care of and when, and he was thorough in his walk through with us. Could not have asked for a better experience, we have already told our realtor that we had a great experience with Erich and that we would recommend that he refer more people to him as they need an inspector. At Ease Property Inspections (Owner) a month ago Good morning J, thank you for the awesome review! All questions are important to answer, as any outstanding unknowns could be causing stress, and if I can resolve that I will gladly do so. The thorough walkthrough also is important to give those questions a chance to come up. Good luck with the new house and any future questions let me know!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Andreas R.
North Central, Kelowna, BC
Erich assisted me with the inspection of my first home purchase. He reached out prior to the inspection...
to have a phone conversation regarding the property, logistics and my needs. He was prompt in organizing a date and time for the inspection, and spent around an hour conducting a walk-through following the inspection to cover any findings and point out critical shut-offs. He demonstrated professionalism and conveyed a sense of confidence. I am left with the feeling that I can reach out with further questions, should the need arise. At Ease Property Inspections (Owner) 5 months ago Good morning Andreas, thank you for the review! The organization and effective communication helps with multiple areas. It reduces stress, keeps all other parties organized, and helps build that education and confidence by being honest and available for questions. The walkthrough is also most important as it gives the best opportunity for the client to have any outstanding home questions answered and learn what the house will provide. Good luck with the new home and any further questions don't hesitate to ask!
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Frequently Asked Questions - Seller Knowledge about Home Inspections

Q: What should a home seller expect during a professional home inspection?
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During a professional home inspection, sellers can expect the inspector to complete a non-invasive, visual assessment of the home’s major systems, including the roof, attic, foundation, electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling. The goal is to document the home’s condition—not to judge or find fault—so buyers understand what to expect after moving in. 
The inspector will need clear access to key areas such as the electrical panel, furnace, hot water tank, attic hatch, and crawlspace. A typical inspection takes 2.5–4 hours, depending on the size and age of the home, whether it’s in Kelowna, Vernon, Lake Country, or Salmon Arm, or in a rural layout that requires additional walking and roof evaluation. 
Sellers can expect the inspector to take photos, run fixtures, test outlets, evaluate windows and doors, and look for visible safety concerns or maintenance items. No part of the inspection is destructive—nothing is cut open or removed—making it a straightforward process for sellers preparing their home for the market or after an accepted offer is in hand.
Q: How long does a typical home inspection take for sellers?
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Most home inspections take 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size, age, and accessibility of the property. Smaller condos may take less time, while larger homes or rural properties—such as those in Big White, Coldstream, Peachland, or the North Shuswap—may require additional time for outbuildings, terrain, or multi-level layouts. 
The inspector will move through all major systems of the home, documenting conditions and taking photos. Sellers do not need to stay home during the entire appointment, but the property must remain fully accessible so the inspection can be completed efficiently.
Q: Do sellers need to be present during the home inspection?
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Sellers do not need to be present, and in most cases, it’s recommended that they leave once access is provided. This allows the inspector to move efficiently through the home and gives buyers space to ask questions. However, there are some pros and cons depending on your situation.

Pros of Leaving the Home

  • Smoother inspection flow: The inspector can move freely through all areas, including the attic and crawlspace.
  • More comfortable for buyers: They can discuss findings openly without feeling watched.
  • Reduces delays: Especially helpful for larger or rural homes in places like Lake Country, Armstrong, Lumby, or Westside Road, where extra time may be needed for outbuildings or property layout.


Pros of Being Available at the Start

  • You can ensure all access points are unlocked.
  • You can explain any quirks of the home (e.g., hidden switches, stiff hatches).
  • You can secure pets before the inspection begins.


Cons of Staying Through the Inspection

  • Buyers may feel hesitant or uncomfortable asking the inspector questions.
  • It may slow down the process if the inspector needs space to test systems or move equipment.
Overall, sellers don’t need to be present for the inspection, but being available for the first few minutes is helpful, and then leaving the home open and accessible allows the inspection to be completed efficiently.
Q: What areas of my home will the inspector need clear access to?
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The inspector will need unrestricted access to all major systems and structural areas of the home so the inspection can be completed safely and thoroughly. This includes the electrical panel, furnace, hot water tank, attic hatch, crawlspace entry, plumbing fixtures, and all rooms, closets, and mechanical spaces. Doors should be unlocked and personal items moved away from key components. 
The inspector will also need access to the exterior, including the foundation, siding, decks, steps, and any storage areas, outbuildings, or garages. Homes in regions like Kamloops, Vernon, Sun Peaks, and Falkland often have additional storage areas or exterior spaces that should be cleared as well. 
Ensuring these areas are accessible helps prevent delays and allows the inspector to document accurate conditions for both sellers and buyers.
Q: How should I prepare my home before the inspector arrives?
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Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth, efficient inspection and can reduce the number of minor conditions noted in the report. Here’s how sellers can get ready: Read this Detailed Blog Post on this topic

1. Ensure clear access to key areas

The inspector will need unrestricted access to the electrical panel, furnace, hot water tank, attic hatch, crawlspace entry, and all mechanical spaces. Clearing furniture, storage items, and debris from these areas helps the inspector evaluate them fully and avoids delays.

2. Turn on utilities and lights

Make sure electricity, water, and gas are turned on. Turn on all lights and appliances, including the dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, and kitchen fans. This allows the inspector to confirm everything is functioning and reduces minor operational conditions being reported.

3. Secure pets and safety hazards

Pets should be removed or secured so the inspector can move safely and check every area without distractions. Remove loose rugs or obstacles that could block access to doors, hallways, or exterior paths.

4. Unlock exterior areas

Provide access to gates, garages, sheds, and decks. Many homes in regions like Kelowna, Vernon, Sun Peaks, and Salmon Arm have multiple outbuildings or extended yards, and clearing access prevents missed inspections or unnecessary follow-ups.

5. Complete small maintenance tasks

Simple fixes can reduce minor conditions in the report. For example:
  • Replace burnt-out light bulbs
  • Clear clogged drains
  • Run faucets to confirm water flow
  • Check that windows and doors open smoothly
  • Light pilot lights on fireplaces if necessary


6. Organize remotes and controls

Leave remotes for garage doors, fireplaces, ceiling fans, and window coverings visible in their rooms of use. This ensures the inspector can test all systems without delay.

7. Communicate with your realtor

Inform your realtor of pets, special instructions, or areas that shouldn’t be inspected. The inspector will follow your directions while still providing a thorough report for the buyer.

Benefits of proper preparation

  • Reduces minor or “housekeeping” conditions in the report, so the focus stays on significant findings.
  • Makes the inspection faster and more efficient, especially for larger homes in regions like Armstrong, Enderby, Coldstream, or the North Shuswap.
  • Helps the inspector deliver a clear, accurate report that builds buyer confidence and avoids surprises later.
Q: Are home inspections for sellers visual only or invasive?
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Home inspections for sellers are visual and non-invasive. The inspector evaluates all readily accessible areas without opening walls, cutting floors, or performing destructive testing. This ensures the home is left exactly as it was found. 
The inspector will check major systems such as electrical panels, plumbing, HVAC, roof, attic, and crawlspaces. Homes in Kelowna, Lake Country, Sun Peaks, or Salmon Arm are inspected the same way, with attention to local building styles and conditions. This approach protects the property while providing a thorough, accurate report for sellers and potential buyers.
Q: What types of issues do inspectors commonly find in homes of different ages?
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Inspectors often find different issues depending on a home’s age. Older homes may have worn roofing, outdated electrical panels, plumbing leaks, foundation settling, or components built with materials that are no longer used, such as knob-and-tube wiring or original galvanized pipes. Newer homes might show unfinished minor items, ventilation concerns, or appliance checks. 
In regions like Big White, Peachland, Coldstream, and Vernon, seasonal conditions and local building practices can also influence common findings. For a detailed list, see our Blog Post 10 Most Common Problems Found in Home Inspections
Q: Do sellers have to fix problems found during a home inspection?
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Once an offer has been accepted and the buyer’s inspection is scheduled, sellers are not automatically required to fix any issues found during the inspection. The report is intended to give the buyer a clear picture of the property’s condition, and any requests for repairs or credits are negotiated through the contract.

Pros of addressing inspection findings

  • Facilitates a smoother closing: Resolving significant items, like a leaking roof or faulty furnace, can prevent delays in the sale.
  • Increases buyer confidence: Buyers may feel reassured that major issues have been addressed, reducing the chance of renegotiation.
  • Maintains goodwill: Especially in areas like Kelowna, Vernon, Lake Country, or Salmon Arm, responding professionally can help maintain a positive relationship with the buyer.


Cons of making repairs

  • Cost considerations: Sellers are under no obligation to pay for repairs unless negotiated.
  • Time delays: Scheduling contractors before closing may slow the process.
  • Negotiation leverage: Some sellers choose to leave items for buyer negotiation or request a credit rather than repair, depending on priorities.


Talk to your realtor

It’s important to review the conditions provided as concerns by the buying realtor with your own selling realtor before responding. Your realtor can help determine which items are reasonable to address, which may not be, and how to handle repair requests within the contract.

Disclosure vs. repair

Even if you decide not to fix certain items, sellers must disclose known defects. Proper disclosure protects you legally and ensures transparency with the buyer.

Talk to your realtor again

Your realtor can help you strategically respond to inspection findings, whether through repairs, credits, or negotiation, balancing cost, timing, and buyer expectations. 

In short, sellers do not have to fix everything, but thoughtful consultation with your realtor ensures the sale proceeds smoothly after the buyer’s inspection.
Q: What happens during the buyer’s walkthrough after the inspection at my home?
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After an offer is accepted, the buyer typically schedules a professional home inspection. The inspector will examine all major systems, including the roof, attic, foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and appliances. Once the inspection is complete, a walkthrough is conducted with the buyers to review key findings. During the walkthrough, the inspector will:
  • Show the location of all utilities and shut-offs (water, gas, furnace, electrical panel) so the buyers know how to operate them safely.
  • Review any summary items or significant concerns found during the inspection and explain what they mean in plain language.
  • Discuss repair or maintenance options, including how to address major defects, minor issues, or ongoing maintenance recommendations.
  • Answer questions from the buyers, helping them understand the condition of the home and what to expect after moving in.
Sellers should know that the walkthrough is non-invasive, and the inspector leaves the property exactly as it was found. Being prepared by providing clear access to mechanical areas and securing pets ensures the process goes smoothly. 
In regions such as Kelowna, Slocan Valley, Sun Peaks, and Peachland, the walkthrough can include additional considerations for seasonal issues or property features specific to the area. 
In short, the buyer’s walkthrough is an educational and review step that explains inspection findings, addresses questions, and provides guidance for repairs or maintenance while keeping the sale on track.
Q: What can I do to help streamline the inspection process as a seller?
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Sellers can make the buyer’s inspection more efficient and reduce minor findings by taking a few simple steps:

1. Resolve minor issues beforehand

Fix small, easily addressed items such as burnt-out bulbs, stuck doors or windows, dripping faucets, and appliance checks. Addressing these reduces “housekeeping” notes in the inspection report, letting the buyer and inspector focus on major systems and safety items.

2. Keep key areas accessible

Ensure the attic hatch, electrical panel, furnace, hot water tank, crawlspace, and any outbuildings are unlocked and free of clutter. Clear access allows the inspector to complete the evaluation efficiently and avoids delays, especially in homes in Kelowna, Lake Country, Sun Peaks, or Salmon Arm where multiple levels or outbuildings are common.

3. Communicate with your realtor

Talk to your realtor about any special considerations, areas to leave as-is, or unusual features. The realtor can help coordinate preparation and ensure the inspection runs smoothly. By focusing on these small preparations, sellers can reduce minor report items, speed up the inspection, and help the buyer concentrate on critical findings, keeping the sale on track.
Q: What should I do with pets during a home inspection when selling my home?
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During a buyer’s home inspection, it’s best to remove or secure pets to ensure the inspection runs safely and efficiently. This allows the inspector to move freely through all areas of the home, including the attic, crawlspace, furnace, and outbuildings, without distraction or risk. 
Sellers in areas such as Kelowna, Vernon, Sun Peaks, or Coldstream often find it easiest to take pets off-site or confine them to a single room with food, water, and bedding. This also helps reduce stress for both the inspector and the animals, and ensures the home is fully accessible for a thorough evaluation. 
Properly managing pets can prevent delays, reduce safety concerns, and help the inspection stay on schedule.
Q: Do you have a quick List of things I should take care of before I even have an accepted Offer?
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1. Resolve Minor Report Issues

Address the easy fixes around your home. Resolving these minor concerns beforehand prevents them from appearing in the final inspection report, which helps ensure the buyer focuses on the big picture.
  • Fix dripping faucets and running toilets. Leaks, even minor ones, are red flags for potential water damage or plumbing issues.
  • Replace burnt-out light bulbs. A missing or non-functioning bulb can lead an inspector to flag the fixture itself as inoperable.
  • Ensure all windows and doors open and close smoothly. Sticky doors or windows can indicate issues with the house settling or improper installation.


2. Gather Essential Documentation

Collect and organize all critical maintenance records, permits, and certifications. Having this documentation readily available demonstrates responsible home ownership and provides peace of mind to both the inspector and the potential buyer.
  • Current WETT certification (if applicable). This is essential for wood-burning appliances like fireplaces and wood stoves.
  • Recent service records for the furnace, boiler, or HVAC unit. Documentation showing professional, regular maintenance is a major asset.
  • Receipts for any major repairs (roof, electrical panel, etc.). This proves that work was recently done by a licensed professional.


3. Update and Replace Batteries in Safety Devices

Inspectors will test the functionality of your safety devices. Ensuring they operate correctly is a simple step that shows your home is prepared and safe.
  • Replace batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them to ensure they chirp loudly.
  • Check and replace batteries in programmable thermostats and smart home components. Make sure they power on and communicate properly.
  • Ensure remote controls for garage doors and fans have fresh batteries for testing. This allows the inspector to quickly verify proper operation.
By taking these steps, you present a well-maintained, organized home, which can lead to a smoother transaction and a more confident buyer.
A Detailed Graphic for best practice steps a home seller can take before an inspection or offer ever comes in. This was created by Professional, certified inspector Erich Kamprath with At Ease Property Inspections

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