How to Prepare for a Home Inspection in Las Vegas

jason52674
6 days ago
3 min read

(Buyer & Seller Checklist)

Preparing for a home inspection is one of the simplest ways to ensure the process goes smoothly and the inspection report is as complete and accurate as possible. Whether you are buying or selling a home in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, or North Las Vegas, a little preparation can prevent delays and unnecessary limitations.

Below is a clear checklist to help you prepare for a professional home inspection in Las Vegas.

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

A standard home inspection typically takes:

⏱️ About 1 hour for every 1,000 square feet

For example:

1,500 sq ft home → ~1.5 hours
2,500 sq ft home → ~2.5 hours

This time allows the inspector to evaluate the home’s major systems and components thoroughly. Proper preparation helps ensure the inspection stays on schedule and nothing is missed.

Ensure All Utilities Are Turned On

All utilities must be on prior to the inspection, including:

Electricity
Water
Gas

If utilities are off, systems such as plumbing, HVAC, appliances, and water heaters cannot be fully tested, which may result in limitations noted in the inspection report or the need for a return visit ($150 charge).

Clear Access to the Electrical Panel

The electrical panel will be inspected for safety and proper installation.

Please ensure:

The panel is not blocked by boxes, furniture, plants, or storage items
The panel is not locked
There is at least 3 feet of clear working space in front of it

Blocked or inaccessible panels must be documented as inspection limitations.

Water Heater and Fireplace Preparation

The inspector will inspect the water heater and, if present, the fireplace.

Important note:

Home inspectors are not allowed to light pilot lights

If your water heater or fireplace uses a pilot light, please make sure it is already lit before the inspection so the system can be adequately evaluated.

Attic Access and Preparation

The inspector will be entering the attic to evaluate:

Roof structure from the underside
Insulation
Ventilation
Signs of leaks or heat-related issues (critical in Las Vegas homes)

Please ensure:

The attic access panel is accessible
Stored items are moved away
If access is in a closet, shift hanging clothes away from where the ladder will be placed

⚠️ Attic access may disturb insulation, and some insulation may fall during entry. This is normal and unavoidable.

Prepare for Photos During the Inspection

During a home inspection, the inspector may take hundreds of photos to document conditions.

To prepare:

Put away personal items you may not want photographed
Secure valuables or sensitive items
Remember, photos are focused on conditions, not décor

Photos are a critical part of a clear, professional inspection report.

Walk and Talk Review with the Buyer

At the end of the inspection, the buyer will meet with the inspector to walk the property and review key findings.

During this walkthrough:

Major concerns are discussed
Safety issues are prioritized
Questions are answered in plain language

Sellers should consider having the property in the condition they want the buyer to see during this final walkthrough.

Final Thoughts on Preparing for a Home Inspection in Las Vegas

Preparing for a home inspection helps reduce delays, limits inspection restrictions, and ensures a smoother experience for everyone involved. Whether you are a buyer or seller, following this checklist allows the inspector to focus on what matters most — evaluating the home's condition.

👉 Related reading: What Does a Home Inspection Include in Las Vegas? https://www.absolutehomeinspections.net/post/what-does-a-las-vegas-home-inspection-include

👉 Service page: Las Vegas Home Inspection Services

Las Vegas Home Inspection Preparation FAQs

Should the seller be home during the inspection?

Sellers do not need to be present during the home inspection. Many prefer to step out so the inspector can work uninterrupted. Buyers are encouraged to attend the end-of-inspection walkthrough to review findings.

What happens if utilities are not turned on?

If electricity, water, or gas are off, the inspector may not be able to test specific systems, such as plumbing, HVAC, or appliances. This can result in limitations noted in the report or the need for a return visit. A return visit will incur an additional cost of $150.

Do buyers need to attend the home inspection?

Buyers are encouraged to attend the walk-and-talk review at the end of the inspection. This allows the inspector to explain significant findings, answer questions, and help prioritize any concerns.

What should be cleared before the inspector arrives?

Clear access should be provided to the electrical panel, water heater, HVAC equipment, attic access, garage, and under-sink plumbing. Personal items blocking access may limit the inspection.