I do look at the washer and hoses but I do not run the washer through a cycle. I will turn it on briefly to verify that it does attempt to function. There's too much water involved and I've heard too many horror stories from other guys about bad washers.
I do check the dryers first and run them. While the dryer is running I'll check the exterior flapper to see if it actually opened. I find more dryers with the vents just run into the wall/ceiling somewhere than actually run outside.

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Accurate Inspections & Consulting, Inc.
773/844-4AIC
Markus Keller