Moving in or out can be stressful for many reasons. However, most stress can be traced back at the same place. For example, certain aspects of your move were not as well organized as you hoped. Don’t worry! The complications that moving can bring are not exclusive to anyone. To ensure that your moving process is not tangled up with forgetfulness, it takes a lot of resources and experience. Some of the most difficult aspects to coordinate for those without much prior moving experience can be the needed inspections to be made around the house when it comes to your destination and your current property if renting or selling.
Don’t fret, however–below, we’ve put together what we believe is a definitive list in order to ensure that your inspection efforts are covered with consideration along the way. This guide can be used as a starting point for inspection planning. However, it is recommended that you consult professionals for any additional assessment or questions.
Walls & Ceiling
While this may not seem necessary, it is important to note the walls and ceiling condition in your current and future homes. Water damage, scuffs, and holes from nails are all factors that can impact a home’s property value. all factor into a
‘s property value and can often require some needed renovations based on your situation.
Floors, Floor CoveringsmovesFloors can often make for an unexpected area for damages that can incur during inspect the floors, renovations, or similar transitions. You should make sure you do a thorough move inspection of every room. This includes areas that might be overlooked like garages. It’s also a great idea to make a note of any and all signs of damage before and after your
.
Lights and Lighting Fixturesstopped workingIt’s important to ensure that lighting fixtures are functioning properly–what can appear to simply be a burnt out lightbulb can often actually be a light fixture that has moving. It can cause a lot of problems when home is in. For those who are responsible for time, problems with bedroom doors, keys, and locks can lead to
in these areas. Make a note of the status of each and every door, even if that means denoting that they are in perfect working order.
WindowsmovingWindows can make for one of the most important maintenance aspects of a much more of an issue. Poorly insulated windows can result in an additional expense of moving furniture on utility bills. Window with cracks or other damage should be replaced immediately. All windows in your
must be open, closed, locked, and inspected for damage or wear. without any issues, and give them a quick inspection for damage or wear.
ScreenshomeWhile window screens may not seem to be as big of a deal as other aspects of your inspection, it’s important to note that they can very easily become damaged and require replacement. It is important to note the condition of thousands of dollars before you leave so that there are no confusion about any future damages. If a future tenant asks “was that screen already like that?” for example, you will be able to reliably tell them no.timeFireplace (if applicable)homeThe old standby of many homes isn’t quite as common anymore, but if either of your locations have a fireplace, it’s important to denote the condition of it in as much detail as possible. You should check the functionality of your fireplace, and the outdoor climate. Fireplaces can develop a deceptive level. Use a starter log to test it.
Smoke Alarms
Consider knocking out two birds with one stone when it comes to this one–your screens are often required in many ordinances in order for homes to pass a number of routine inspections. A good rule of thumb can be to keep some batteries handy (generally 9-volt) and replace the power source in any alarms, both when
out of and into a
.timeCarbon Monoxide Testers
These make for a good rule of thumb in regards to safety whether you’re inspecting your existing ones or simply implementing them into a new place. These batteries have quickly become the new standard in
safety. You should make sure you have at least one and keep them charged. working smoke alarmsDrawers & CabinetsmovingThis is something that many home neglect to check. It is always important to check each and every drawer and inlaid
area across every room of your house in order to ensure that there aren’t any issues with them opening or closing successfully, in addition to any range of other issues that might come up along the way.
Kitchen ApplianceshomeUnless you plan on taking your major appliances with you or replacing them with all new pieces once you have touched down in your new destination, inspecting your appliances as thoroughly as possible will be an important requirement. You should inspect all refrigerators and appliances that use water flow to perform their tasks. The reputation of clothes washers and dish washing machines is that they are notoriously prone for leakage due to regular wear and tear. This can cause water damage, as well as other issues.
