By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read
A garage inspection checks the door, opener, and the safety features that protect people and pets. The two key tests are the auto-reverse function and the photo-eye sensors.
Inspectors operate the door manually and with the opener, look at springs, cables, rollers, and tracks, and check that the door seals and moves smoothly.
| Key point | What it means |
|---|---|
| Auto-reverse | The door should reverse when it hits an obstruction. |
| Photo-eye sensors | Placed near the floor, they stop the door when something breaks the beam. |
| Manual release | Lets you open the door if power fails. |
Frayed cables, bent tracks, loud grinding, doors that sag, and openers that are old and lack modern safety features. Garage doors can be heavy, and springs are under high tension, so repairs belong to a professional.
Check the fire-rated door between the garage and house, the firewall drywall on shared walls, and floor cracks. Make sure carbon monoxide alarms are present near the entry to living areas.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.
David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.
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