If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Cleveland, Ohio or nearby cities, you may hear the term POS come up early in the process. For many homeowners, this can feel confusing or even intimidating but it doesn’t have to be.
This guide breaks down what a POS is, why it matters, and how it affects buyers and sellers in Cleveland and surrounding areas.
POS stands for Point of Sale Inspection.
In many Cleveland-area cities, a POS inspection is a municipal property inspection required before a home can be sold or transferred. The goal is to ensure that the property meets local safety, health, and housing code standards.
Each city sets its own rules, but POS inspections commonly focus on:
Safety hazards
Major system functionality (electrical, plumbing, heating)
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Structural or exterior issues
General property maintenance standards
In many Cleveland suburbs, yes sellers are typically responsible for obtaining a POS.
Before closing, the seller must:
Apply for the POS inspection through the city
Allow the city inspector to assess the property
Address required repairs or negotiate how violations will be handled
Some cities require:
All violations to be corrected before closing
An escrow holdback for repairs
A POS violation report to be transferred to the buyer
Because requirements vary by city, it’s critical to know your property’s local rules.
Buyers usually do not apply for the POS themselves, but the POS directly affects them.
As a buyer, a POS:
Reveals city-identified issues with the property
May impact loan approval or closing timelines
Helps you understand potential repair responsibilities
In some cases, buyers agree to assume POS violations but this should always be done with clear guidance and proper negotiation.
The City of Cleveland itself does not currently require a traditional Point of Sale (POS) inspection in the same way many surrounding suburbs do. However, this does not mean sellers are exempt from all property requirements.
In Cleveland, sellers may still need to comply with:
Existing housing code violations
Lead-safe certification requirements for certain properties
Transfer affidavits or compliance documentation, depending on the property type and buyer financing
Additionally, lenders, appraisers, or buyers may still require repairs or inspections as part of the transaction. This is why understanding both city rules and transaction-specific requirements is essential when selling or buying in Cleveland.
Rules can Change and you can Fact Check by calling the building department Cleveland (216)664-2825
POS inspections are common in many surrounding municipalities, including (but not limited to):
Cleveland Heights
University Heights
South Euclid
Lyndhurst
Euclid
Shaker Heights
Maple Heights
Warrensville Heights
Orange Village
Newburgh Heights
Brooklyn Heights
Cuyahoga Heights
Each city has different standards, fees, timelines, and enforcement rules. What applies in one city may not apply in another.
A POS can:
Delay closing if not started early
Create unexpected repair costs
Impact buyer negotiations
Affect lender requirements
The good news? With the right strategy, POS issues can be managed without derailing your transaction.
At Set Me Free Realty, we help clients:
Determine if a POS is required for their city
Understand inspection results clearly
Create a plan for repairs, escrow, or negotiation
Avoid last-minute surprises
Move forward with confidence
This is part of The Set Me Free Experience removing confusion, reducing stress, and protecting your next move.
If you’re considering buying or selling in Cleveland or the surrounding area, understanding POS requirements early can save you time, money, and frustration.
📞 Schedule a free consultation
📩 Ask how POS requirements may impact your specific property
Real estate regulations and POS requirements vary by municipality and are subject to change. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional and the applicable city housing department for the most current information.