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Why You Should Secure Pets Before a Home Inspection

As a seller, preparing your home for an inspection is key to ensuring everything goes smoothly—and that includes making arrangements for your pets. While you might think your furry friends will just stay out of the way, pets can unintentionally complicate the process. Here’s why securing pets is important during a home inspection and how to do it effectively:

1. Pets Can Distract the Inspector

As much as we love animals, pets can be a distraction during an inspection. A curious cat exploring a crawl space or a playful dog following us from room to room can make it harder for us to stay focused on the job at hand. Ensuring your pets are secured allows us to work efficiently and thoroughly.

2. It’s About Safety—for Everyone

Some pets may be friendly, but others might feel nervous or protective when strangers are in their home. For everyone’s safety—yours, ours, and your pets—it’s best to keep them secured or removed during the inspection. Even a typically calm pet can act unpredictably in stressful situations.

3. Buyers Need to Feel Comfortable

Buyers often attend the home inspection to get a better understanding of the property. A barking dog or a cat that won’t leave their lap can make them feel uneasy, which might leave them with a negative impression of the home. Securing pets ensures buyers feel relaxed and focused on the house itself.

4. Pets Might Accidentally Escape

With inspectors moving in and out of different areas—opening doors to attics, crawl spaces, and basements—there’s a chance your pet could slip out unnoticed. Securing them prevents the risk of an accidental escape.

How to Prepare Your Pets

• Crate or Confine: Place your pets in a crate or a secure room where they’ll feel safe and comfortable. Add a favorite toy or blanket to help them relax.
• Consider Boarding or a Pet Sitter: If possible, arrange for your pets to be out of the house entirely. Taking them to a friend’s house or a boarding facility can ensure they’re not stressed by the activity.
• Inform the Inspector: Let us know if pets will be in the home and where they’ll be secured. This helps us avoid any surprises and work around their space if necessary.

The Bottom Line

Securing your pets during a home inspection isn’t just about making the process smoother for us—it’s about safety, professionalism, and leaving the best possible impression on potential buyers. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your pets stay happy and stress-free, and your inspection stays on track.

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