Choosing A Home Inspector

Most states do not require licensing.  Anyone can call themselves a home inspector.  Therefore, it is important to screen and qualify an inspector before hiring him.   It is well worth the effort to find a seasoned professional.  The following questions can assist you.

A full-time inspector who performs 200 or more inspections per year and has many years experience is most desirable. 

An inspector must have full working knowledge of every system in a home.  Most inspectors had formal training in just one trade. To become inspectors they had to cross-train in all the other relevant trades.  The more knowledgeable inspectors started with a degree in a field such as engineering or architecture that provides a broad background in general construction or they were trained to operate as a general contractor.  These are good bases to build from.  One does not acquire this kind of knowledge by taking a few courses or reading a book.  A good rule of thumb is to look for fifteen years of combined formal training and on-the-job experience in related fields.

The best referral is from someone you personally know and trust who was satisfied with the inspector's performance.  Although many real-estate professionals refer quality home inspectors there is a possible conflict of interest with this type of referral.  If you were not reliably referred to the inspector then ask for references from past clients, preferably from several years past.

When dealing with an inspection company the reputations of both the company and the inspector who is assigned to your home are important.  Request that an experienced inspector be assigned rather than a new one.

It is to your advantage that your inspector has this coverage.  Do not be afraid to ask for a copy of the policies.

Ask how long the inspection will take and how many other inspections will be performed on the same day as yours.  If the inspection takes less than 2 hours find another inspector.  Performing a thorough inspection is very tiring, so arrange to be the first or second one of the day.

You may want to ask this question since there are several answers.   An inspection should include a signed report that describes what was inspected and the condition of each inspected item.   Some inspectors use a checklist type of form with stock responses.   Other inspectors simply provide a written description of the conditions found.   A modern alternative to these are computer-generated reports.   The best of these are generated by advanced home inspection software systems and include comments specific to each home.

An important question to ask is, "When do I get the report?"   The checklist type and the handwritten type are usually delivered to you on-site.   Computer-generated reports are also available on-site from a few inspectors who bring a portable computer to the job.   Otherwise, the inspector mails the report. You may want to know up front how long you can expect to wait for it.

There are many local, state, and national organizations that an inspector can join as well as many franchises that an inspector can purchase. However, membership in any organization does not guarantee a quality inspector.   In the end, the individual inspector's experience and knowledge will determine the quality of the inspection.
 

• Home Buyers Guide
• How To Choose a Realtor
• Real Estate Glossary