2-Minute Reads

Should Sellers Leave During the Home Inspection?

If you’re selling your home, you might be wondering, “Do I really need to leave during the inspection?” While it’s not required, it’s usually a good idea—for everyone’s sake.

> Buyers Need Their Space

Home inspections are a time for buyers to get to know the house. They’ll be following the inspector around, asking questions, and maybe even planning where their furniture will go. If the seller is there, it can feel awkward. No one wants to ask about a potential problem while the current owner is standing right there.

> We Work Best Without an Audience

As inspectors, we’re pretty used to working solo. Having the seller around can add a layer of tension—especially if they’re nervous about what we might find. And honestly, it’s not fun for you either. Do you really want to hang around while we’re poking around the attic or testing all the sinks?

> Funny Story Time

One time, a seller decided to stay during the inspection and follow me around. Every time I pointed something out, they’d jump in with, “Oh, that’s totally normal. It’s been like that for years!” By the end, the buyer was more suspicious than reassured. Lesson learned: sometimes it’s better to let the professionals handle it without a running commentary.

> So, Should You Leave?

If you can, yes. Use the time to run errands, grab lunch, or take a nice walk. It’s not just courteous—it helps the buyers feel more comfortable and allows us to do our job without distractions.