How to Prepare Your Home for Inspection After Going Under Contract in Draper, South Jordan & Sandy, Utah

Your home is under contract – congratulations! Now comes the crucial inspection period that can make or break your sale. Here's your complete guide to preparing your Draper, South Jordan, or Sandy home for a successful inspection.

Why Home Inspection Preparation Matters in Utah's Competitive Market

The Utah real estate market remains highly competitive, particularly in desirable areas such as Draper, South Jordan, and Sandy. A smooth inspection process can be the difference between closing on time and losing your buyer to inspection issues. Most purchase contracts in Utah include a 7-10 day inspection period, giving you a limited time to address any problems.

Essential Pre-Inspection Checklist for Utah Homes

HVAC System Preparation

Utah's extreme temperature swings put extra stress on heating and cooling systems. Before inspection:

• Replace all air filters – Utah's dry climate and seasonal dust storms make this critical
• Test both heating and cooling systems – Even in summer, inspectors will test your furnace
• Clear all vents and returns – Remove furniture and ensure airflow isn't blocked
• Schedule HVAC maintenance if your system hasn't been serviced in the past year
• Check for proper insulation in attics and crawl spaces (especially important for older Draper and Sandy homes)

Plumbing System Check

Utah's hard water and seasonal temperature changes can cause plumbing issues:

• Test all faucets, toilets, and showers for proper water pressure and drainage
• Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in basements
• Ensure water heater is functioning – Replace if over 10 years old
• Clear any slow drains before inspection day
• Test sump pumps (common in South Jordan homes with basements)

Electrical System Safety

Many older homes in Sandy and Draper may have outdated electrical systems:

• Test all outlets with a simple outlet tester (available at hardware stores)
• Ensure all light switches and fixtures work
• Check that GFCI outlets are properly installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages
• Label the electrical panel clearly – inspectors appreciate this
• Replace any flickering or dim bulbs

Exterior Maintenance for Utah Climate

Utah's weather can be tough on home exteriors:

• Inspect and clean gutters – remove debris from summer storms
• Check for ice dam damage from last winter (especially on north-facing roofs)
• Trim tree branches away from the house and power lines
• Test sprinkler systems and check for proper drainage away from the foundation
• Inspect deck and patio areas for safety and stability

Draper, South Jordan, & Sandy Specific Considerations

Foundation Issues Common to the Area

The clay soils common in South Jordan and parts of Sandy can cause foundation movement:

• Check for new cracks in basement walls or foundation
• Ensure proper grading directs water away from the home
• Look for signs of settling around windows and doors

Older Home Concerns in Sandy

Sandy has many homes built in the 1970s-1980s that may have:

• Aluminum wiring (should be evaluated by an electrician)
• Asbestos-containing materials in older homes
• Lead paint in homes built before 1978

New Construction Issues in Draper

Newer Draper homes may have:

• Incomplete finishing work that needs attention
• Landscaping and drainage issues on sloped lots
• HVAC systems that haven't been properly balanced

What to Expect During the Inspection Process

Timeline and Access

• Most inspections in Utah take 2-4 hours, depending on home size
• Be prepared to leave – buyers and inspectors work better without sellers present
• Ensure easy access to all areas, including attics, crawl spaces, and utility rooms
• Provide documentation like warranties, permits, and maintenance records

Common Utah Inspection Issues

Based on local inspector reports, the most common issues found in Utah homes include:

• HVAC system problems (30% of inspections)
• Electrical safety concerns (25% of inspections)
• Plumbing issues (20% of inspections)
• Roof and gutter problems (15% of inspections)
• Foundation and structural concerns (10% of inspections)

After the Inspection: Next Steps

Reviewing the Report

Your real estate agent will help you understand which items are:

• Safety issues that must be addressed
• Major systems that affect home value
• Minor cosmetic items that buyers may request but aren't required

Negotiating Repairs

In Utah's market, it's common for sellers to:

• Address safety issues immediately
• Provide credits for buyer-preferred contractors
• Offer home warranties to cover systems and appliances

Professional Services in the Draper, South Jordan & Sandy Area

Consider hiring local professionals before inspection if you suspect issues:

• HVAC contractors familiar with Utah's climate demands
• Plumbers experienced with hard water issues
• Electricians who understand local code requirements
• Roofing specialists familiar with Utah weather patterns

Final Tips for Utah Sellers

1. Start early – don't wait until you're under contract to address obvious issues
2. Keep receipts for all recent repairs and maintenance
3. Consider a pre-inspection if your home is older or you suspect problems
4. Work with experienced local agents who understand Utah inspection standards
5. Stay flexible – most inspection issues can be resolved with good communication

Conclusion

Preparing your Draper, South Jordan, or Sandy home for inspection doesn't have to be stressful. By addressing these key areas proactively, you'll increase your chances of a smooth inspection process and successful closing. Remember, most buyers expect some inspection items – the goal is to avoid major surprises that could derail your sale.

Need help navigating the inspection process in Salt Lake County? Contact a local real estate professional who understands the unique challenges and opportunities in the Draper, South Jordan, and Sandy markets.