How to choose an Inspector:
Hiring a home inspector may be one of the most important decisions you'll ever make. Failure to detect structural defects or latent hazards could affect your finances or your families health for years to come. Make your purchase contingent on a satisfactory home inspection.
Below are 10 important questions to ask your home inspector:
1. What does your inspection cover? The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will comply with well recognized standards of practice and code of ethics.
2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you performed? The inspector should be able to provide their history in the profession and even a few names for referrals. newer inspectors can be very qualified, and many work with a partner or a more experienced inspector that can assist them.
3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspections? Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection.
4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection? Offers to perform work due to defects uncovered during the inspection can be viewed as a conflict of interest.
5. How long will an inspection take? The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is two to three hours for a typical single-family house; anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection.
6. How much will it cost? Costs vary dramatically, depending on the size of the home, the age of the structure, and the scope of services. A typical range would be $300.00 to $500.00, plus additional fees for hazard testing, but consider the cost of the inspection in terms of the investment being made.
7. What kind of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive it? Most inspectors have to compile a report back at the office after the inspection, but should be able to provide you with a verbal overview at the conclusion of the inspection. Most inspectors provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection.
8. Will I be able to attend the inspection? This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up an opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.
9. Do you offer home hazard testing? Health hazards in a home can vary significantly. A good home inspector should have the means to test for these hazards, so you can have peace of mind when concluding your purchase.
10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date? One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of their professionalism and service to the consumer.