Finding a Qualified Home Inspector
Most U.S. states offer little or no regulations for the home inspection industry, so finding a good inspector sometimes takes a little legwork. One of the best methods you can use is to get referrals from friends who've been happy with an inspector's services. Your real-estate agent can also provide you with the names and phone numbers of multiple inspection companies.
Questions to Ask the Inspector
Ask each inspector for references — but keep in mind they won't give you the names of unhappy clients! Ask which systems are included in their inspection. Find out if the inspector charges an extra fee to inspect septic systems, private wells and related water testing, radon, and mold.
Ask to see a sample of the report you will be given after the inspection. Does it include plenty of specific details, with photos of problem areas? It should include a checklist that shows results for all systems evaluated. It should also include detailed reports in paragraph form.
Find out how long the inspection will take, and be prepared to set aside three to five hours or more for a thorough inspection. Compare fees and services among the inspectors you interview. Other questions you should ask include the following:
Where were you trained, and how long have you been a professional inspector?
Are you an engineer or general contractor? (Both of those designations take extensive study.)
Do you attend continuing education classes for home inspectors?
Do you belong to a professional organization for inspectors?
What are the requirements for organization membership? (Entry should require more than just an application fee.)
Do you carry errors and omissions insurance? (This is a type of malpractice insurance that covers mistakes made by inspectors.)
A septic report and a water test are required if you're obtaining FHA or VA financing for a home that's not on public utilities. You can usually save money if you ask the inspector to perform the tests at the same time other systems are inspected.
Other Options
Some buyers ask a friend or relative to step in to do an inspection. That's okay — it's your choice, and some people truly do have a friend or family member who can do a thorough job. Be sure you understand the differences between someone with building experience and someone who inspects real estate for a living. A person with construction experience may not have the equipment or expertise that's required to conduct a thorough evaluation of a home or other structure.
