Why Utilities Must Be On for a Home Inspection and Final Walkthrough
Home inspection utilities play an important role in every real estate transaction. Water, gas, and electricity should be active before a home inspection and final walkthrough so buyers and inspectors can verify that the property’s major systems are functioning properly.
Why Active Utilities Matter During a Home Inspection
A home inspection is designed to assess the condition and operation of a home’s major systems. Inspectors typically evaluate plumbing, electrical components, heating and cooling systems, appliances, and water heaters.
These systems cannot be fully tested if water, gas, or electricity service is disconnected.
For example, a water heater requires utility service to operate. If the unit is turned off, the inspector cannot determine whether it is heating water correctly or identify potential performance issues. The same principle applies to HVAC equipment, kitchen appliances, and plumbing fixtures.
An inspection report may note that certain systems could not be tested due to inactive utilities. This can create uncertainty for both parties and may lead to additional inspections or follow-up requests.
Utility Requirements in Real Estate Contracts
Many real estate contracts require sellers to maintain the property in substantially the same condition through settlement. In the D.C. Metro area and many other markets, contract language often requires utilities to remain active so buyers can verify the property’s condition.
This requirement supports transparency during the transaction.
Buyers need the ability to evaluate the home’s systems before closing. Sellers benefit when inspections and walkthroughs can be completed without delays caused by inactive utilities.
Contract requirements vary by jurisdiction and form. Buyers and sellers should review their specific agreement and consult their real estate professional when questions arise.
Why Utilities Matter During the Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough serves a different purpose than the inspection, but active utilities remain important.
Buyers use the walkthrough to confirm that agreed-upon repairs have been completed and that major systems are still functioning properly before settlement. Running water, electricity, gas service, and hot water help verify that the home remains in the expected condition.
An inactive utility can prevent that confirmation and may raise avoidable concerns shortly before closing.
Best Practices for Sellers
Sellers should plan to keep all utilities active until ownership officially transfers. This includes electricity, water, natural gas, and any other services necessary for operating the home’s major systems.
A functioning property is easier to inspect, easier to verify, and less likely to encounter last-minute complications.
For additional guidance on the home inspection process, the National Association of Realtors provides educational resources for buyers and sellers: https://www.nar.realtor
You can also find more residential real estate insights and transaction resources at rlahre.com
Follow @rlahdmv for ongoing updates and practical real estate guidance throughout the D.C. Metro region.
