Before you schedule

Confirm your inspection contingency period and deadlineCheck your purchase contract or ask your agent how many days you have.
Book the inspection earlyCall or text Mike at (949) 728-8292 with the address and approximate square footage for a quote.
Ask for a sample reportSo you know what to expect, see the fictional example on the sample report page.
Ask about pools, spas and special featuresIf the home has a pool, Mike includes a general visual inspection of the pool.
Plan to attendMike encourages you to walk along and ask questions.

Access and utilities (usually the seller's side)

Ask your agent to confirm utilities are onWater, electricity and gas should be on so systems can be operated.
Make sure the attic hatch, electrical panel and water heater are reachableStored items blocking access can limit what can be inspected.
Ask that gates and garage are unlockedGarage and exterior areas are part of the inspection.
Mention pets and occupants to the seller's agentSo the inspector can move through the home smoothly.

Roof and gutters: sagging, missing or lifted tiles or shingles, stains below
Foundation and walls: cracks, out-of-square doors or windows, sloping floorsCracks aren't always serious, but note them and ask the inspector.
Water: stains on ceilings or walls, musty smell, soft spots under sinks
Windows and doors: do they open, close and latch?
Electrical: working outlets and switches, any flickering lights
Heating and A/C: do they run when turned on?
Garage door and opener: does it open and reverse?

Arrive on time and bring a notepad or phone for notes
Walk along with Mike and ask questionsHe'll explain how systems operate and show you what he finds, good and bad.
Ask which items are safety concerns, repairs, or just maintenance
Ask about rough repair costsMike tells you what needs repair and about how much it may cost.
Take photos of the things he points outYou'll also get color photos in the report.

Read the PDF report all the way throughIt arrives by email with color photos and arrows.
Make a list of questions and contact MikeHe's there to help you understand the condition of the home.
Talk with your agent about repair requests or negotiationsItems can be requested from the seller, or you can plan to handle them yourself.
Ask about re-inspection after repairsAsk Mike whether a re-inspection is available and what it costs when you book.
Plan the follow-upsGet quotes from licensed contractors for anything you want repaired.

This checklist is general guidance, not a substitute for an inspection or professional advice. Ask Mike about your specific property.