A home inspection is a process of going through a property’s physical structure and systems, from top to bottom. Inspectors look for defects and things that are not working properly. Reviewing the findings with the inspector gives homeowners a better understanding of what needs to be fixed and what can be safely ignored.
But is every home inspector the same? Certainly no. This is why it is important to know how to choose a home inspector to ensure quality property inspection.
Factors to Consider When Hiring a Home Inspector
Many homeowners make the mistake of choosing a home inspector based on price alone. In some cases, this can lead to an inspection that is either not thorough enough or misses important issues. In the quest to answer how to find a good home inspector, here are ten things to keep in mind.
Certification and Licensing
The home inspector’s certificate should come from a reputable organization, such as the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. The license should be up-to-date and specific to your state. By verifying these credentials, you can be confident that you’re getting a qualified professional who will do a thorough job.
Experience
Experience is a good answer to “How to find a home inspector.” A home inspector should be able to provide you with a list of satisfied customers who can attest to their work.
Another way to gauge an inspector’s experience is to ask how long they have been in business. A home inspector with several years of experience is more likely to be familiar with common issues and better understand how homes are built.
Furthermore, you can check an inspector’s credentials by looking for membership in professional organizations such as the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
By taking the time to research an inspector’s qualifications, you can be confident that you are hiring a qualified professional who will provide a thorough inspection of your home.
Qualifications
A qualified home inspector should have experience in the construction industry and be familiar with building code requirements. They should also be certified by a professional organization, such as the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. In addition, you can ask for references from previous clients to get an idea of the quality of their work.
Insurance
A qualified home inspector should have liability insurance to protect you if they miss something during the inspection. This is important because you could be held responsible if the home inspector did not have insurance if an issue arises after you move in.
Here is how to confirm if they hold insurance or not:
- Ask for their Certificate of Insurance
- Make sure the policy is active and covers the date of the inspection
- Check that the Inspector is listed as an insured party on the policy
Thoroughness
A home inspection should take at least two to three hours, depending on the size and age of the house. The inspector should examine all accessible areas of the house, both inside and out. They should also take the time to explain their findings to you so that you can make informed decisions about any repairs that need to be made. If you are wondering how to select a home inspector, keep thoroughness in mind.
Report Structure
A good home inspector will be able to provide you with a detailed report that outlines any potential problems with the home. This report can be invaluable in helping you decide whether or not to purchase the property.
The report should include information about the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical system, and HVAC system. It should also note any visible signs of termite damage or other pests.
Other information that their report must include are:
- The inspector’s name, address, and phone number
- The date of the inspection
- The address of the property being inspected
- A list of any major problems or defects
- A list of any minor repairs that are needed
- Photos of any areas of concern
- The inspector’s signature
Accessibility
A good home inspector should be available to answer any questions you have about their report. They should also be willing to return and re-inspect the property if you have any concerns.
The Approach Matters
It is important to understand a home inspector’s approach to get a feel for their work. A home inspector’s approach depends on the size and age of the house and the condition of the property. The inspector will also take into account the buyer’s needs and wants.
For example, suppose you are interested in a fixer-upper.
In that case, the inspector will look for minor defects that can be easily repaired. However, if you are looking for a move-in-ready home, the inspector will be more stringent in their inspection.
In either case, it is important to understand the inspector’s approach so that you can know what to expect from their report.
How Much Do They Charge
If a home inspector quotes more price for fewer services in their package, it is a huge red flag. Some home inspection companies cut corners to save money, but this could end up costing you more in the long run.
The average cost of a home inspection is between $300 and $500, depending on the size and age of the house. However, some home inspectors may charge more for additional services, such as mold testing or radon testing.
It is important to get a few quotes from different home inspectors before choosing one. This will give you a better idea of a fair price for the services you need.
Do They Offer Additional Services?
Some home inspectors offer additional services, such as mold testing or radon testing. These services can help identify potential problems with the property. However, they are not required, and you should only use them if you feel they are necessary.
Mold testing is typically only done if there is visible mold present or if there is a musty smell in the house. Radon testing is only done if the house is located where radon levels are known to be high.
Additional services can be helpful, but they are not required. You should only use them if you feel they are necessary.
Final Word
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a home inspector, you can be sure to find one that will meet your needs. Be sure to ask for referrals from friends or family and schedule a consultation to get the best idea about the inspector’s approach.
