The required Wisconsin licensee visual inspection is included in our flat-fee MLS listing packages at no additional charge.
Compare what each package includes on our pricing page.
What Wisconsin rules require
Wisconsin Administrative Code § REEB 24.07, adopted by the Wisconsin Real Estate Examining Board, sets out a licensee's inspection and disclosure duties. When the real estate involves a structure, a licensee must conduct a reasonably competent and diligent inspection of accessible areas of the structure and the immediately surrounding areas of the property to detect observable, material adverse facts. For accessible vacant land, the licensee inspects the land itself.
For a listing, the rule requires the licensee to inspect the real estate before the listing contract is signed, and to ask the seller about the condition of the structure, mechanical systems and other relevant aspects of the property, requesting a written response from the seller.
What the inspection does not involve
Under the same rule, a reasonably competent and diligent inspection does not require the licensee to operate mechanical equipment; open panels, doors or covers to reach mechanical systems; or move furniture, boxes or other property. It also does not require observing areas where entry presents an unreasonable risk of injury, or areas reachable only by ladder, by crawling or by similar means.
Licensee visual inspection vs. a professional home inspection
The licensee's inspection is a limited, visual review of accessible areas intended to identify observable material adverse facts. It is not a technical evaluation of the home's systems or components and does not produce a home inspection report.
A professional home inspection is a separate service performed by a home inspector, typically arranged by a buyer after an offer. Sellers and buyers who want a detailed assessment of the property's condition should consider hiring a qualified home inspector.
How this fits into your listing
The listing brokerage is responsible for meeting this requirement for your listing, and confirms the specific arrangements for each property. Learn more about the full process on how it works, in our guide to listing on the MLS in Wisconsin, or in the FAQ. Questions? Contact us.
This page summarizes the rule for general information and is not legal advice. Refer to the current text of § REEB 24.07 for the complete requirements.
