Roof and exterior
Roof coverings, flashing, drainage, siding, trim, decks, balconies and visible site conditions.
Pre-listing home inspection · San Diego County
Know what a buyer may find first.
I inspect the home before it goes on the market, explain the significant findings and give you time to make informed decisions before a buyer’s inspection starts the clock.
Best timingBefore photography and showings
Digital reportWithin 24 hours
Your inspectorScott Albritton, CPI
What gets checked.
A visual, non-invasive inspection of the accessible systems and components included in the agreed scope.
Structure and foundation
Accessible foundation areas, framing, crawlspaces and visible signs of movement or moisture.
Electrical
Service equipment, panels, visible wiring, receptacles and installed safety devices.
Plumbing
Water supply, drains, fixtures, accessible piping, water heating equipment, leaks and functional flow.
Heating and cooling
Installed equipment, normal operating controls, visible distribution and accessible components.
Interior and attic
Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, stairs, appliances, attic areas, insulation and ventilation.
Fewer surprises once the home is under contract.
A buyer’s inspector is likely to find defects. The practical question is whether you learn about them before listing or after the buyer has limited time to respond. A pre-listing inspection gives you a clearer picture while you still control the schedule.
You can decide which repairs make sense, collect estimates for larger items or disclose a known condition with supporting information. You do not need to fix everything. The report helps you separate material concerns from routine maintenance so you can make that decision with your agent.
San Diego homes often have issues tied to age, coastal exposure, drainage, older electrical equipment, aging plumbing and past additions. Finding these conditions early can prevent last-minute access problems, rushed bids and avoidable disagreement during escrow.
This is the same type of visual, non-invasive inspection performed for a buyer. It is not a guarantee that another inspector will report the property the same way, and it does not replace required seller disclosures.
The inspection report reflects visible and accessible conditions on the inspection date. Concealed defects, inaccessible areas and conditions that change later cannot be predicted.
What to expect.
A straightforward process, clear communication and time to ask questions.
Schedule before listing
The best time is before photography, showings and final pricing decisions, while there is still time to respond to the findings.
Prepare the property
Provide access to the attic, crawlspace, electrical panels, water heater, HVAC equipment and areas below sinks.
Review the findings
I explain the significant items and answer questions without telling you that every minor defect needs repair.
Choose your response
Review repairs, estimates and disclosure decisions with your real estate agent and the appropriate contractors.
Common questions.
Direct answers before you schedule.
01Is a pre-listing inspection different from a buyer’s inspection?+
The inspection process is generally similar, but the client and timing are different. The seller receives the report before the property goes under contract and decides how to respond.
02Do I have to repair everything in the report?+
No. The report provides information, not a required repair list. Discuss repair and disclosure decisions with your real estate agent and obtain specialist opinions when needed.
03Should buyers receive the full report?+
That is a decision to make with your real estate agent. California disclosure obligations can be fact-specific, so the report should not be used as a substitute for appropriate legal or brokerage guidance.
04Will the buyer still hire an inspector?+
Often, yes. A buyer may still perform independent inspections even when the seller has completed a pre-listing inspection.
05When should I schedule the inspection?+
Ideally, schedule it before the home is photographed or listed. That provides more time to obtain estimates, complete selected repairs and prepare disclosures.
Ready to get clear answers?
Most appointments are available within 24 to 48 hours. For a rush escrow, call directly.